Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles: Photos, Reviews & Location

Steep 1.3-mile-long unmade trail leading to the domed Art Deco observatory with views across LA.

At a glance

#44 of 126 Tourist attractions in Los Angeles #15 of 71 Parks in Los Angeles

LocalGuideWorld score: 4.70

4.7 km from the center of Los Angeles

Rating breakdown

5 ★81%
4 ★15%
3 ★3%
2 ★1%
1 ★1%

Western Canyon Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90068

griffithobservatory.org

Photos of Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory (88)

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Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles – photo 1

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Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles – photo 12

Quick facts

What is the rating of Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory?: Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory is rated 4.7 out of 5 based on 1,431 reviews.
How does Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory rank in Los Angeles?: Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory is #44 of 126 Tourist attractions in Los Angeles by LocalGuideWorld score (rating weighted by number of reviews).
Where is Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory located?: Western Canyon Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90068 — 4.7 km from the center of Los Angeles.
How can I contact Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory?: Website: griffithobservatory.org

Reviews (8)

Julia Takher 2023 Dec 13

Griffith Park is not far from my house, so I often go there. This is a great place to walk or run. A variety of species. Restrooms are only available at the very bottom of the park or in the observatory.

Lois Fong-Sakai 2023 Nov 30

It was my first time hiking up any of the trails to Griffith Observatory. Almost upon entering the park, we found confusing signage. Some signs posted saying that the entrance would be closed at sunset, and others saying the park closed at 10pm, we were confused. In addition, signage also indicated that parking required payment at some locations, but not others.

Being a weekday, there were plenty of parking spaces in the lot. The trail we took was alongside the road for cars; a concrete berm separates traffic from hikers. Many pine tree needles are on the trail, so it can be a bit slippery. Since you're climbing up a hill on a narrow path, there are some areas where you will step onto the paved road (that cars drive on), so watch for cars.

The views of Griffith Observatory & downtown Los Angeles are great. We left after dark, so our flashlights & blinking bike lights helped us safely walk down the paved roadway.

ARCADER 1999 2023 Nov 20

I did not follow the entire trail, but from what I did follow, it was very nice and pleasant! So many trees, bushes and wildlife, like crows, squirrels, and other birds and animals. A great place to bring your dogs and family.

Venus MJ 2023 Nov 17

Nice and very educational place to go with kids as well. Loved the place, awesome views...

eric p 2023 Nov 05

You can never go wrong when you hike anywhere in griffith park. This trail is below the drive to the observatory. So basically you are hiking in the park below but if you really wanted you could keep driving up the road and end up at the top

There are multiple kids plays areas, lots of bathrooms, and so many benches, picnic areas, and just generally great places to have lunch a enjoy the best of LA

The only downside is the parking. There is a lot at the top before you head up the hill, but if you do not get there in the morning spots are hard to come by. There are also spots along the road heading up into the park but again, make sure you get there early

Daniel Hill 2023 Sep 23

Free parking and a more scenic walk to the observatory. My 10 and 6 year old made it just fine (it's easier on the way back). Parking is so bad at the observatory this was the better option.
The views were awesome!

Misti Van Zandt 2023 May 15

Any hike that offers views of the city, hills, nature and The Griffith is just hands down breathtaking. A must do if you’re athletically capable. It can be steep in some areas but if you take it slow at at your own pace you’ll be fine.

Helen Arens 2022 Feb 21

Although rated easy, it is a steep hike on the way up. It might be too much for some kids or folks not conditioned for this. I noticed lots of kids on the trail complaining and crying! But the views are gorgeous, especially on a clear day. Parking is hard to find, leave plenty of extra time for that.