Roosevelt and Beacon Ridge Loop

The Roosevelt and Beacon Ridge Loop is a short but steep 6.7-mile hike in Griffith Park, featuring over 1,500 feet of total elevation gain. This route connects several unmaintained, rugged ridgeline trails, offering a more secluded experience while providing a solid workout with its steep climbs and varied terrain.

DESCRIPTION

The hike begins at Vermont Canyon, where parking and bathrooms are available. From there, the route briefly follows Vermont Canyon Road before veering east onto the Riverside Trail, a wide dirt road. Keep an eye out for an unmaintained use trail to the left. While this trail is technically unmaintained, it is easy to spot and appears on OnX Maps. This section is steep and rugged, requiring strong legs and shoes with good tractions as you ascend the ridgeline toward Hogback Trail.

Once you reach Hogback Trail, continue to Vista Viewpoint and the 5 Points intersection. From there, follow the Upper Beacon Trail to a scenic viewpoint before descending along another unmaintained ridgeline trail. This section offers solitude and a break from the crowds.

The route then merges onto Coolidge Trail, where you’ll face another steep climb on a hidden, unmaintained singletrack trail through shaded trees and shrubs. The ascent leads to Cedar Grove, a serene, shaded area. Afterward, you'll leave the forest and follow Vista De Valle up to the Joe Klas Water Stop.

To complete the loop, circle back to 5 Points and retrace your steps to Vermont Canyon.

FLORA AND FAUNA

This route features a variety of Southern California flora and fauna. The rugged ridgeline and shaded sections of the trail feature native plants such as California sagebrush, black sage, toyon, and coastal prickly pear cactus. As you climb through shaded areas like Cedar Grove, you'll find California sycamore and coast live oak trees.

Wildlife in Griffith Park includes mule deer, coyotes, and the occasional bobcat. Birdwatchers may spot red-tailed hawks, California quail, and other native species. Smaller critters such as lizards, squirrels, and rabbits are also common along the trail.

As always, be cautious of rattlesnakes, especially on the unmaintained sections of the trail, and practice Leave No Trace principles to protect the wildlife and natural habitat.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Trail Features: Steep ridgeline paths, shaded sections, and scenic viewpoints.

Terrain: A mix of maintained and unmaintained trails, with rugged ridges and steep climbs.

Facilities: Parking and bathrooms are available at Vermont Canyon.