Runyon Canyon Hike

 

Hi guys! The other day I went hiking with my good friend Jen (who just happened to also be my wedding photographer.  She is amazing! Take a peek at her work here) at Runyon Canyon and we did a little photo shoot along the way.  Runyon has a bit of a reputation in LA of being a douchey hike.  I kind of agree, but I really like it anyway.  You may be wondering how a hike can possibly be douchey, so allow me to explain:  It is definitely quite a scene.  People dress to be noticed, and shirtless meatheads, cheeky booty shorts, and skimpy bra tops abound.  Probably the prime examples of the strangeness are the valet parking available and the DJ who often spins near the top of the hike.  All of these factors could not possibly be more stereotypically LA, and for this reason a lot of real fitness aficionados steer clear.  But honestly, I find the hike itself to be really lovely.  The loop is only 3.5 miles so it is manageable for just about anyone.  Since you can choose to go either direction around the loop, you will either be going up or going down a very steep portion with wooden steps.  This is by far the most challenging part, and I prefer to go up it rather than down.  Either direction is challenging, but going down it is scary since it is easy to slide on the sand.  The best part of the hike is the incredible view that you are rewarded with at the top! You can see the Hollywood sign, downtown LA, and on a clear day you can even glimpse the Pacific Ocean.  I don’t care how many times I do this hike, that sight always take my breath away.

xoxo

Emily