Great Hikes

WEST LA’s EASIEST HIKE

By Scott Regberg

   Over the years, I regularly get requests for “easy hikes” – especially trails with a view and designed for inexperienced hikers.
   Depending on your abilities, “easy” can mean very different things to different people. (After a while, even Wirebreak is easy). But for the sake of safety and simplicity, here’s an ideal one-hour hike with killer views, a beautiful picnic spot, lush trees and wide, gentle trails.
   Short of walking down San Vincente Boulevard, Inspiration Peak in the center of Will Rogers Park, must be West LA’s easiest hike. Despite its unchallenging nature, it is also extraordinarily beautiful and readily accessible. Take Sunset Boulevard to Will Rogers Park Drive and wind up the hill for a few blocks. Park on the street for free or pay a small fee in the State-run parking lot.
   You’ll see the huge spanse of polo field to the south, and a partially over-grown pathway with wooden steps and white handrails gently leading up the hillside. It may not look like a hiking trail but this unassuming walkway is the trailhead for some of the best hikes in LA, including Inspirational Peak.
   In about three minutes, the uphill path hooks up to the main fireroad. You can turn left and follow the road or take the steep little shortcut straight ahead, which takes about ten minutes off the hike. First timers should definitely take fireroad, it’s easier and provides sweeping views as it loops up and back.
Just stay on the road and enjoy the sweeping view. In another few minutes you’ll see a white and brown sign pointing you up to Inspiration Peak. Take this slightly narrow side trail up and around as it works its way toward the crest. (Watch out for the unusually high step-ups and the eroded backfill.)
   The peak is a broad clearing with picnic tables and viewing benches overlooking all of the Westside from the Palisades to the South Bay. It’s a great spot for a break, and hard to believe only a 30-minute walk from civilization.
   Begin your return trip by crossing over to the opposite side of the peak and follow the fireroads circuitous route back. This second half is even more beautiful with a eucalyptus-lined road gently curving down to the east side of the park near the horse stables. It’s downhill all the way and practically impossible to get lost.
   No matter what kind of shape you’re in – go do this hike. It’s an amazingly beautiful find and just enough of a workout that you’ll know did something albeit low stress.
   Fearless readers who are interested in free Monday and Wednesday night hikes should contact Scott Regberg at 310-475-5735.