Hiking in Sherman Oaks, CA, offers residents and visitors a convenient way to enjoy the outdoors while staying close to home. Nestled in the San Fernando Valley and near the Santa Monica Mountains, Sherman Oaks provides access to some of the best urban-proximate trails in the Los Angeles area. Whether you're looking for a brisk workout, a scenic walk, or a peaceful place to unwind, there are several hiking options nearby. Each trail listed below is well-regarded for its accessibility, quality, and the variety of terrain or views it offers.

Located just minutes from the center of Sherman Oaks, the Fryman Canyon Trail is part of the Wilacre Park area. This 3-mile loop trail is popular for its mix of urban access and natural surroundings. Hikers will encounter moderate inclines and a mostly well-maintained dirt path, making it suitable for beginners and regular walkers alike. The trail offers partial shade and views of Studio City and the surrounding hills. Fryman Canyon is especially convenient for locals looking for a reliable weekday hike.

This short loop trail within Coldwater Canyon Park and near the TreePeople environmental organization headquarters provides a unique hiking experience. Though less than a mile in length, the Rainforest Trail features shaded, wooded areas and several educational signs about local ecology. It’s ideal for families, casual hikers, or those who want a brief outdoor experience. The trail connects with other paths in the area, offering the chance to extend your hike if desired.

Just southwest of Sherman Oaks, the Upper Canyonback Trail is part of the larger network, including the Westridge-Canyonback Wilderness Park. This wide, dirt fire road is accessible and relatively flat in the early segments, with more challenging options further in. On clear days, hikers can see views of the San Fernando Valley to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the south from its ridgeline position. The open space and minimal shade make early morning or late afternoon the best time to visit.

Hidden within a Sherman Oaks neighborhood, this lesser-known trail offers a steep climb and rewarding views. While it's a short out-and-back trail of roughly one mile, the incline makes it more challenging than its length suggests. It's an excellent choice for a quick but effective workout. The top of the trail reveals panoramic views of the valley, and since it's not as frequented as other trails, hikers often enjoy a quieter experience.

This trail begins near Beverly Glen Boulevard and ascends toward Mulholland Drive, providing an uphill route that is moderate in difficulty. The terrain includes a mix of paved sections and dirt paths, making it accessible yet still natural in feel. As it winds upward, the hike offers various vantage points looking out over the canyon neighborhoods and beyond. It’s a good option for those looking to add elevation to their routine hike near Sherman Oaks.

A bit farther out—roughly 25 minutes from Sherman Oaks—Los Liones Trail near Pacific Palisades is worth the short drive. This 1.5-mile hike leads to a junction with the Parker Mesa Overlook trail for those wanting a longer route. The trail is surrounded by lush coastal vegetation, and hikers are rewarded with views of the ocean and cityscape. Though technically outside the immediate Sherman Oaks area, it’s a favored choice for those who want a coastal experience while still based in the Valley.

While Griffith Park is on the eastern edge of the Valley, the Mount Hollywood Trail remains a favorite for hikers from Sherman Oaks due to its central location and skyline views. This moderate 5-mile round-trip trail leads to one of the highest peaks in Griffith Park. Hikers can also view the iconic Griffith Observatory and the Los Angeles Basin. It’s popular on weekends, so weekday visits are preferable for a quieter experience.

This trail begins a short drive from Sherman Oaks and offers a wide dirt road suitable for hiking, biking, and even trail running. The Westridge Trail provides steady elevation gain and expansive views across the Los Angeles Basin and the San Fernando Valley. The route is popular for its open feel and lack of technical difficulty, making it appropriate for a broad range of fitness levels.

Located off Sepulveda Boulevard, this fire road runs along the top of the ridge near the Skirball Cultural Center. It’s an underrated option with convenient parking and access. The trail is mostly exposed, so sun protection is recommended. With limited foot traffic, it’s a peaceful walk with consistent elevation that appeals to fitness hikers.

Though slightly farther from Sherman Oaks, Runyon Canyon remains one of the most popular hikes for residents throughout Los Angeles. With multiple loops and entrances, it accommodates a variety of skill levels. The park offers views of the Hollywood Sign, the downtown skyline, and the Pacific Ocean in the distance. Because of its popularity, the park is usually crowded, but it’s a reliable option for social hikers or those who enjoy an energetic atmosphere.

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