The best walks and hikes around Monterey Park
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Hikes around Monterey Park California offer accessible routes within an urban environment. The area is primarily composed of city parks with established walking paths and nearby hilly terrain providing views over the Los Angeles basin. While not a remote wilderness area, the region provides numerous options for outdoor exercise close to the city center.
Best hiking trails around Monterey Park
- The most popular hiking route is Meadows & Vistas β Elysian Park, a 3.3 mile (5.3 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to complete. This route features open meadows and views of the surrounding city.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Whittier Hill β Turnbull Debris Basin loop from Hacienda Heights, a moderate 5.0 mile (8.0 km) path. The trail involves some elevation gain through the hills.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Lower Arroyo Park loop β Pasadena, a 3.2 mile (5.1 km) trail leading through a section of the Arroyo Seco, often completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Hiking around Monterey Park is defined by urban park trails, walks through residential hills, and paths in nearby green spaces like Elysian Park. The network of routes provides easy and moderate options suitable for various fitness levels.
- The routes in Monterey Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 15 reviews. More than 200 hikers have used komoot to explore Monterey Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
5
hikers
1.69km
00:26
10m
10m
Enjoy an easy 1.1-mile hike on the Almansor Park Loop, featuring lush greenery, peaceful ponds, and diverse wildlife.
4
hikers
3.20km
00:58
120m
100m
Hike the easy 2.0-mile Ascot Hills Trail for panoramic views of the Downtown Los Angeles skyline and a vibrant urban oasis.
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914m
00:16
20m
20m
Hike the easy 0.6-mile Edison Trail in Monterey Park, California, offering short inclines and views of houses, perfect for beginners.
24.8km
06:16
40m
60m
Hike the 15.4-mile Rio Hondo River Trail, a difficult route through the Whittier Narrows Recreation Area, taking over 6 hours.
13.6km
03:26
20m
30m
Hike the moderate 8.4-mile Rio Hondo River Trail in Whittier Narrows Recreation Area, featuring diverse scenery and wildlife spotting opport
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Tips from the Community
Ascot Hills is a great place for a quick hike with solid views of L.A. The trailβs not too long but has some good uphill sections. If you make it to the top, the city viewsβespecially at sunsetβare totally worth it.
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There is a parking lot and restroom here at the trailhead, which provides access to a large network of paved and packed dirt trails along the beautiful Rio Hondo. The trailhead closes at sunset.
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Bosque del Rio Hondo, which is Spanish for βForest of the Deep River, is a small quaint green area just off from Whittier Arrows lakes & Recreation Area. It is also abundant with wildlife and used by the public for picnics, biking and hiking because it provides access to the Rio Hondo and San Gabriel River bicycle paths.
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Enormously sized park in an area of expensive villas. Much is used by a country club golf course, as well as some community park area with ponds, meadows, picnic areas etc.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, beginner-friendly hikes in Monterey Park?
Yes, the area is well-suited for beginners. The city has established several 'Walkability Routes' in its parks, which are well-marked and designed for all fitness levels. For a specific route, the Downtown LA and Chinatown from Union Station β Los Angeles walk is a very flat and accessible option for exploring the urban landscape.
Can I bring my dog on the trails around Monterey Park?
Many parks and trails in and around the Monterey Park area are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash. Parks like Edison Trails Park are popular spots for local dog walkers. Always check the specific regulations for the park you plan to visit before you go.
What are the best spots for scenic city views?
Several trails in the hills of Monterey Park offer rewarding views of the surrounding neighborhoods and the downtown Los Angeles skyline. Edison Trails Park is particularly known for its westerly views from the higher points of its trail system, making it a great choice for cityscape panoramas.
Are there any family-friendly or stroller-friendly trails?
Yes, many of the city's parks feature paved or well-maintained walking paths suitable for families with strollers. Barnes Park and Highlands Park have designated walking routes that are generally flat and paved, making them ideal for a family outing or a walk with a stroller.
I'm looking for a more challenging hike. Are there any nearby?
While most trails within Monterey Park itself are easy, you can find more challenging options nearby. The Whittier Hill β Turnbull Debris Basin loop from Hacienda Heights is a popular moderate hike that involves more significant elevation gain, offering a good workout and expansive views.
Do I need to pay for parking or trail access?
Most hiking trails and parks within Monterey Park, such as Edison Trails Park and Barnes Park, are free to access and offer free public parking. This makes it an accessible and affordable option for getting outdoors.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, there are several loop trails that allow you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. The Palm Garden loop from California Institute of Technology is a pleasant, easy loop that takes you through a unique and scenic part of the nearby Caltech campus.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this area?
The routes around Monterey Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of the trails and the surprising quality of the city views from an urban location.
How many hiking trails are there around Monterey Park?
You can find around 20 curated hiking routes in and around Monterey Park on komoot. The majority of these are rated as easy, with a handful of moderate options available in the nearby hills, catering to a wide range of walkers and hikers.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls near Monterey Park?
The immediate Monterey Park area is an urban environment and does not feature natural waterfalls on its trails. Hikes here are characterized by park paths and hillside trails with city views. For waterfalls, you would need to travel further to mountain ranges like the San Gabriel Mountains.
What kind of amenities can I expect at the local parks?
Many of the city's parks are well-equipped. For example, Edison Trails Park and La Loma Park offer picnic tables and restrooms. Barnes Park is a larger community park that includes sports facilities and well-maintained walking paths in addition to picnic areas.
Can I get to the trailheads using public transport?
Yes, due to the urban setting, many of the parks and trailheads in Monterey Park are accessible via public transportation. For example, trails starting from Barnes Park or near Union Station are well-served by local bus and rail lines. Always check the latest transit schedules to plan your trip.
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