🌃 Cahuenga Peak (West Side)
Details
Evening Conditioning Hike | City Lights | Strong Pace
Trade the treadmill for a short, steep evening workout to Cahuenga Peak—approached from the quieter west side of Griffith Park. This route offers sustained climbing, a serious cardio push, and sweeping views of the city lights.
Cahuenga Peak is now the highest point in Griffith Park, and this section feels like a small pocket of wilderness right in the middle of Los Angeles.
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### 💪 What to Expect
- Distance: ~4 miles
- Elevation Gain/Loss: ~2,000 ft cumulative
- Time: ~1.5 hours
- Terrain: Steep trail, sustained climbs, mixed descent
- Pace: Brisk / conditioning-focused
This is a workout hike, not a social stroll. We’ll power-hike uphill to elevate heart rate, regroup briefly at key points, and enjoy a short recovery stop at scenic viewpoints.
Faster hikers are welcome to move ahead between regroup points.
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### ⚠️ Who This Hike Is For
- You hike regularly and are well-conditioned
- You’re comfortable with steep terrain
- You want a strong cardio workout
- You can maintain a steady, efficient pace
🚫 Not recommended for beginners or casual hikers
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### 🕕 The Plan
- Meet: “Y” intersection of Primera Ave & La Suvida Dr.
- Quick stretch & introductions
- Steep climb to Cahuenga Peak from the west
- Descend toward the lone tree viewpoint overlooking Burbank
- Short break to enjoy the city lights
- Return via a different route
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### 🎒 What to Bring
- Headlamp or flashlight (important)
- Trail running shoes or hiking boots with good traction
- At least 1 liter of water
- Cell phone
- Layers / light windbreaker
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### 🚗 Parking
Street parking available on La Suvida Dr.
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### 🙏 RSVP Courtesy
Please RSVP only if you’re reasonably confident you can attend.
If plans change, update your RSVP at least 30 minutes before the start so others may join.
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### ⚖️ Safety Note
This is a self-supported, conditioning-focused hike. Please ensure you’re in good health and comfortable with strenuous activity. By attending, you assume responsibility for your own safety.
