Hiking in Eagle Rock, Los Angeles

The greater Los Angeles area boasts not one but two Eagle Rocks. Both perch high above the city: One looms 1,957 feet above the greenery of Topanga State Park, and the other peeks out over a ridge just north of downtown. Both Eagle Rocks reveal extensive views of the Southern California landscape to hikers that reach their summits.

  1. Eagle Rock in Topanga State Park

    • If you start your hike from Trippet Ranch in Topanga State Park, you can approach Eagle Rock via the Musch Trail and Eagle Springs Fire Road for a 4.5-mile loop with an 800-foot elevation gain. This trail's big benefit is that it's off-limits to the park's deluge of mountain bikers, as it cuts through protected sagebrush terrain. The Munsch Trail begins at the paved trail to the right of the Trippet Ranch restroom block and follows signage for Musch Camp. The trail ambles through oak groves, meadows, ravines and over small wooden foot bridges, affording hikers excellent views of Topanga Canyon before it meets Eagle Springs Fire Road. Take a left turn there to climb the remaining half-mile to Eagle Rock.

    Eagle Rock to Temescal Peak

    • To extend the previous hike to include Eagle Rock's neighbor, the 2,000-foot Temescal Peak, continue hiking east for 1.15 miles to Hub Junction. There, turn south to follow the Temescal Peak signage. The summit is just under 2 miles from Eagle Rock. To return, retrace your steps to Hub Junction and either take Eagle Springs Fire Road back to the base of Eagle Rock Fire Road or turn at the intersection with Musch Trail to extend the hike for about 4 miles. Both lead back to your car at Trippet Ranch.

    Eagle Rock Canyon Trail

    • The other Eagle Rock in Los Angeles is a distinctive geologic feature that has given its name to the Los Angeles neighborhood that spreads out below it. Just north of downtown Los Angeles, this Eagle Rock is much smaller than the one in Topanga Canyon. However, its access trail -- the Eagle Rock Canyon Trail -- offers city slickers a very easy and accessible mile-long day hike within the setting of a well-protected municipal park. Access the trailhead from the cul de sac at the terminus of Eagle Rock View Drive and follow the clear signage to the summit. From there, you can enjoy panoramic views of the downtown Los Angeles skyline.

    Considerations

    • The trails to both the Topanga and downtown Eagle Rocks can be very hot and sunny mid-day. The Topanga hike has some shaded, protected areas, but most hikers appreciate the added protection of sunblock and a hat. All hikers should carry plenty of water, as there are no reliable sources of drinking water beyond the trailheads of either hike.