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Best extra difficult hikes in Los Angeles County
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Best extra difficult hikes in Los Angeles County

Only the bravest need apply! These extra-difficult hikes are not for the faint of heart.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Los Angeles County.

Most popular hikes

1

Extra Difficult

Bear Canyon Loop Trail

Los Angeles County, California · star 5.0 (1) · 1.2 km · Est. 26 min

2

Extra Difficult

Mount Wilson Toll Road to Henninger Flats

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.3 (7) · 8.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 51 min

3

Extra Difficult

Lone Tree, One Man and Mule and Castle Canyon Loop Trail

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.3 (3) · 10.9 km · Est. 3 hrs 45 min

4

Extra Difficult

Mount Love Camp via Chaney Trail and Bear Canyon Trail

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.5 (2) · 19.2 km · Est. 6 hrs 20 min

5

Extra Difficult

Lower Sam Merrill, Echo Mountain, Markham Saddle and San Gabriel Peak Loop Trail

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.3 (9) · 28.1 km · Est. 2 days

6

Extra Difficult

Ladyface Mountain

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.6 (5) · 3.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 15 min

7

Extra Difficult

Iron Canyon Trail

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.0 (1) · 10.1 km · Est. 3 hrs 41 min

8

Extra Difficult

Poop Out and Punk Out Loop Trail

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.0 (4) · 7.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 33 min

9

Extra Difficult

Iron Mountain Trail from Camp Bonita Road

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.5 (2) · 21.3 km · Est. 2 days

10

Extra Difficult

Condor Peak Trail

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.0 (1) · 23.2 km · Est. 6 hrs 26 min

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Reviews for extra difficult hikes in Los Angeles County

Quinn Bauch LLD avatar

Bear Canyon Loop Trail

ScoutSeeker16 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Edmond Kshlerin avatar

Mount Wilson Toll Road to Henninger Flats

BirchRanger57 · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Demetrius Casper avatar

Lone Tree, One Man and Mule and Castle Canyon Loop Trail

SierraHavenranger99 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Terri Sawayn avatar

Mount Love Camp via Chaney Trail and Bear Canyon Trail

ValleySummitview94 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Eric Vandervort avatar

Lower Sam Merrill, Echo Mountain, Markham Saddle and San Gabriel Peak Loop Trail

PlateauWoodlander41 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Los Angeles County

What is the climate like for hiking in California?

California's vast geography results in diverse climates. Coastal regions, with their mild, Mediterranean climate, offer year-round hiking opportunities, though winter rains may muddy trails. In contrast, the inland valleys and desert regions are best hiked from October to April, as summer temperatures can be prohibitive.
The Sierra Nevada, famous for its mountains and forests, is popular in summer and fall. However, winter brings heavy snowfall, making trails inaccessible. Meanwhile, the pleasant climate of Southern California allows for hiking throughout the year, with cooler, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
To summarize, California's diverse climate offers year-round hiking opportunities, varying by region. Visit www.parks.ca.gov for more detailed information about specific trails and their recommended seasons.

Do I need a permit to hike in California?

Permits for hiking in California, particularly in wilderness areas or for overnight trips, are often required. Managed by the National Park Service, Forest Service, or Bureau of Land Management, permit processes vary. For more information, visit respective agency websites or www.recreation.gov for federal lands.

Is wild camping allowed in California?

Wild camping in California is generally permitted in national forests and Bureau of Land Management lands. However, restrictions apply, such as the requirement of a campfire permit. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. Detailed regulations can be found on agency websites like www.fs.usda.gov

Are there mountain rescue services in California?

In case of a hiking emergency in California, dial 911. Also, the California Office of Emergency Services coordinates search and rescue. The Mountain Rescue Association (MRA) has several units in California, with information available at www.mra.org. Always plan ahead and hike safely.

Are there dangerous plants in California?

California's flora varies widely, from coastal scrub and redwood forests to desert plants and alpine flora in the Sierra Nevada. This diversity can affect hiking experiences and trail conditions. For detailed information on California's flora, visit the California Native Plant Society website: www.cnps.org

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in California?

California's diverse habitats host a wide range of wildlife, from harmless squirrels to larger mammals like black bears. Ticks and mosquitoes may pose minor nuisances to hikers. Be aware of potential encounters, particularly with venomous snakes in desert areas. For more, visit https://wildlife.ca.gov/

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