Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
1,777.00 ft (541.63 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
9.50 mi (15.29 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Travel Town to Tom LaBonge Loop is a 9.5-mile route through Griffith Park in Los Angeles, California. This route offers panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles and the surrounding areas from several scenic overlooks, vistas, and picnic areas. The route is accessible year round and primarily used for running, hiking, biking, and horseback riding and consists of both single and double track dirt. This loop passes through areas popular with outdoor enthusiasts and tourists, and can get crowded on weekends. 

This loop begins near the Travel Town Museum on Griffith Park's east side and heads southwest to Tom LaBonge's scenic overlook (formerly Mount Hollywood). A 360-degree view of the city can be enjoyed from the overlook's 1,625-foot elevation, facing west. Look eastward, away from the Los Angeles basin, to see the nearby Verdugo and San Gabriel mountains. Picnic tables are available at the overlook, which is a nice location to take a break.  

COMMON VEGETATION: The trail is mostly lined with California chaparral, manzanita, and sage scrub.

COMMON WILDLIFE: In the park it is common to see mule deer, squirrels, red tail hawk, coyotes, lizards, rattlesnakes, and more. 

PARKING

The trailhead is located within a small paved parking area. Street parking is also available nearby. Make sure to read signs for area parking restrictions and regulations (which vary throughout the park). 

MILES AND WAYPOINTS

0.00 - Start / Skyline Trail.

1.00 - Cross Griffith Park Drive and follow Oak Canyon Trail.

1.80 - North Trail.

3.30 - Picnic Bench.

3.50 - Tom LaBonge Panorama. 

4.10 - Mount Hollywood Drive.

7.40 - Toyon Trail.

7.70 - Oak Canyon Trail.

9.50 - End / Skyline Trail.

 

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Scenic viewpoints. City views. Mountain Views.

Cons

Can get crowded.

Trailhead Elevation

520.00 ft (158.50 m)

Highest point

1,614.00 ft (491.95 m)

Features

Wildlife
Big vistas
Horseback riding
Wildflowers

Typically multi-day

No

Suitable for

Biking
Horseback

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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