Despite its urban reputation, Los Angeles provides easy access to incredible trails for first-time backpackers. This guide will introduce you to five beginner-friendly backpacking routes near LA. You’ll learn where to hike, how to find suitable spots to set up camp, and key tips for making your first adventure safe and enjoyable.
Top five beginner-friendly backpacking trails near Los Angeles
Santa Anita Canyon to Spruce Grove Campground
An Easy Trek with Waterfalls and Historic Charm
Distance from LA: 45-minute drive (23 miles) Trail Distance: 4.2 miles round trip Elevation Gain: 700 ft Duration: 1-2 days (overnight) Difficulty: Beginner-friendly
Santa Anita Canyon is perfect for first-time backpackers, with shaded trails and access to the beautiful Sturtevant Falls. The route is well-maintained and along the way, you’ll encounter serene creek crossings and quiet forested paths. Backpackers can set up camp at Spruce Grove, an established backcountry camping area with flat, open spaces for pitching a tent. The nearby creek provides water for filtering.
Key Landmarks:
Sturtevant Falls: A scenic detour to one of LA's most beautiful waterfalls.
Historic Sturtevant’s Camp: A century-old cabin steeped in history worth exploring.
Pro Tips: Arrive early to secure a good camping spot, as the area is popular with both day hikers and overnight backpackers. Pack a lightweight water filter for refilling at the creek.
Crystal Cove State Park — Lower Moro Ridge Backpacking Spots
Coastal Views and Designated Backpacking Areas
Distance from LA: 50 miles Trail Distance: 3-4 miles (depending on route) Elevation Gain: 800-1,000 ft Duration: 1 night Difficulty: Beginner-friendly
Crystal Cove offers breathtaking ocean views and open coastal landscapes, making it a favorite for new backpackers. The hike to Lower Moro Ridge is short but includes moderate inclines, offering a manageable challenge for beginners. The Lower Moro Ridge backpacking area features marked spaces where you can pitch your tent. These spots are designed for backcountry camping and provide access to potable water nearby.
Key Landmarks:
Panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Seasonal wildflowers in vibrant colors during spring.
Pro Tips: Reserve your spot in advance through ReserveCalifornia. Bring a small stove for cooking, as open fires are not permitted.
Cooper Canyon Trail — Angeles National Forest
Shady Trails and Peaceful Forest Campsites
Distance from LA: 50 miles Trail Distance: 4 miles round trip Elevation Gain: 700 ft Duration: 1-2 days Difficulty: Beginner-friendly
Cooper Canyon’s shaded trails and gentle water crossings make it ideal for those new to backpacking. The hike to Cooper Canyon offers peace and quiet, with the occasional wildlife sighting. There are designated backcountry camping areas near Buckhorn Campground, where backpackers can set up their tents. These spots offer proximity to water sources for filtering and serene surroundings away from the crowds.
Key Landmarks:
Cooper Canyon Falls: A short side trail leads to this beautiful waterfall.
Pro Tips: Bring water shoes for exploring streams near the camping areas, and check road conditions for Angeles Crest Highway (Highway 2) before you go.
Malibu Creek State Park — Rock Pool Trail
Flat Terrain with Quiet Backcountry Spots
Distance from LA: 30 miles Trail Distance: 2.5 miles round trip Elevation Gain: Minimal Duration: 1 night
Malibu Creek offers a gentle hike through the stunning Santa Monica Mountains, leading to quiet spaces ideal for first-time backpackers. Backpackers can find open spaces for backcountry camping near Century Lake or Rock Pool. These areas are away from the main trails, offering privacy and a chance to immerse yourself in nature.
Key Landmarks:
Rock Pool: A picturesque spot for relaxing or dipping your feet in the water.
Pro Tips: Bring swimwear if you plan to explore the Rock Pool. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles to keep this area pristine.
Topanga State Park — Musch Trail Backcountry Area
Scenic Views and Quick Access from LA
Distance from LA: 18 miles Trail Distance: 4 miles round trip Elevation Gain: 600 ft Duration: 1-2 days
Topanga State Park provides a short but scenic trail leading to a quiet backcountry area perfect for setting up camp. The Musch Trail backcountry area features flat, shaded spots ideal for pitching a tent. These spaces are close to water sources, making it easy to filter drinking water.
Key Landmarks:
Stunning views of the Santa Monica Mountains.
Occasional wildlife sightings, including deer and hawks.
Pro Tips: Start early to enjoy cooler weather, and pack light to make the short but steep climb more manageable.
LA Backpacking Permits and Regulations
Before venturing out on any of the trails above make sure you are aware of any permits or regulations that are required. A quick summary is bellow.
Spruce Grove, Crystal Cove, and Topanga: Permits required; book through ReserveCalifornia.
Cooper Canyon and Malibu Creek: No permits needed, but follow local regulations for backcountry camping.
Remember to follow the 7 Leave No Trace Principles!
Adventure is waiting!
Los Angeles is surrounded by beginner-friendly backpacking trails that make it easy to step into the wild. From the shaded trails of Santa Anita Canyon to the coastal beauty of Crystal Cove, these trails offer an unforgettable way to connect with nature.
Ready to pack up and hit the trail? If you need reliable gear, GeerGarage has everything you need to get started. Rent backpacks, tents, and other essentials to make your trip hassle-free. Plan your adventure today!