East to West Observatory Loop

The East to West Observatory Loop is a 3.4-mile route in Griffith Park, a public recreation area located near Los Angeles, California. Starting from Vermont Canyon, the route traverses east to west, making a loop in Western Canyon, and visiting Griffith Park Observatory in the middle. It's a short hike packed with scenic vistas, city and mountain views, open green spaces, and the Griffith Park Observatory. It is a popular destination among tourists and locals for running, hiking, and enjoying nature.

DIRECTIONS

Follow the Boy Scout Trail to a scenic lookout, then descend to the West Observatory Trail. Continue all the way down to the Trails Cafe, then return up following the East Observatory Trail. Upon reaching the scenic vista, turn left and proceed up the dirt path to the Griffith Park Observatory. Explore the observatory grounds before retracing your steps back down the Boy Scout Trail. Then follow that path back to the parking area. 

PARKING
Street parking is available near the Boy Scout Trailhead located off of Vermont Canyon Road.

HEAT AND WATER
Griffith Park has trails that are accessible year-round. However, this route has minimal shade and can get extremely hot in the summer months.  Visitors are recommended to carry sufficient water and wear sun protective clothing. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Griffith Park