Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory: Your Pathway to Spectacular Views

Nestled in the hills of Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory offers some of the most spectacular views of Los Angeles. Getting there requires a bit of hiking, but the journey is part of the fun. The Firebreak Trail delivers you right to the Observatory’s doorstep after a satisfying trek through the greenery of Griffith Park. This moderate 3-mile out-and-back trail showcases the natural beauty surrounding LA and ends with the Observatory’s striking architecture and panoramic vistas.

The Trailhead

The trailhead for the Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory is located along Canyon Drive in a residential area of Los Feliz called Laughlin Park. Street parking is available on Canyon Drive near the intersection of Canyon Drive and Firebreak Trail. Be sure not to block residential driveways. The wide trailhead is marked by a closed gate and stone pillars reading “Firebreak Trail.”

What to Expect on the Trail

The Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory is relatively short at 3 miles roundtrip, but it does involve some elevation gains and losses along the way. The total elevation gain is about 600 feet. The trail is exposed so be sure to wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water, especially in the hot summer months. The trail surface is mostly dirt and gravel. The full route is dog-friendly if your pup is up for the hike.

When to Hike

The Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory can be hiked year-round, but spring and fall are ideal when temperatures are mild. Winter can be lovely if there has been rain, but summers in LA are quite hot. For cooler weather, start the hike early in the morning. The Observatory and views of the LA Basin are best seen during daylight hours.

Permits and Fees

No fees or permits are required to hike the Firebreak Trail. Parking on Canyon Drive is also free.

The Hike to Griffith Observatory

As you pass through the trailhead gate, you immediately begin gradually ascending the dusty trail. The homes of Laughlin Park are visible down the hillside to your left. To your right are the bushy hills of Griffith Park. Continue following the wide main path as other smaller trails split off.

Oak Canyon and Picnic Area

At 0.4 miles you’ll pass a short but steep trail descending down into Oak Canyon on your right. Oak Canyon contains the ruins of the Old Zoo which dates back to 1912. Feel free to explore, but the main Firebreak Trail continues straight.

At 0.6 miles you’ll encounter the shaded Oak Canyon Picnic Area. There are several picnic tables and restrooms available here. Beyond the tables is an array of mysterious concrete foundations and stairs that were part of the Old Zoo.

After exploring the ruins, proceed through the picnic area and continue uphill on the main Firebreak Trail. You’ll start climbing wooden steps through chaparral and oak woodlands.

View Points

At approximately 0.8 miles you’ll reach a semi-paved clearing on the right with concrete remains of installations that were part of Griffith Park’s past. This spot makes a nice viewpoint to pause and gaze out over Burbank, Glendale, and downtown LA in the distance.

Switchbacks

Just beyond the viewpoint, the trail narrows and you’ll reach the first of several switchbacks that zigzag up steeper sections of the route. Continue pressing forward and upward through spring wildflowers and bushes. Glimpses of views will tease you as you hike the switchbacks.

Mountain Bell Overlook

After completing the switchbacks, you’ll pop out atop a ridge where you’ll find the Mountain Bell Overlook Pavilion. At 1.5 miles, this stop showcases an orientation table and panoramic views north over the valley and east to the downtown skyline and San Gabriel Mountains. You made it to the top – it’s all downhill from here!

Descending to Griffith Observatory

From the Mountain Bell Overlook, begin hiking downhill on a paved access road that zigzags back and forth. You’ll pass a junction with a trail descending down to the Old Zoo. Stick with the windy paved road heading downhill.

Old Fire Road

At 1.7 miles, you’ll pass the intersection with Old Fire Road on your left. Old Fire Road also leads down to Griffith Observatory but along a less direct route. For the most straightforward descent, remain on the paved switchbacks.

Final Stretch

Enjoy the views over Glendale and downtown LA as you gradually descend on the paved road’s long switchbacks. You’ll pass spur trails branching off in both directions but continue downhill on the main road. Finally, at 2.7 miles you’ll arrive behind Griffith Observatory at the bottom of the long zigzagging road.

Arrival at Griffith Observatory

Congratulations, you made it! Walk around to the front of the iconic Griffith Observatory to take in the full frontal view. The white unique architecture soars from its perch, overlooking the sprawling city below. Head inside to further explore this historic landmark. Take in a live planetarium show, view exhibits on astronomy and marine life, and gaze through telescopes for close-up images of space. The Observation Deck and Terrace offer more stunning city vistas. After exploring, grab lunch at the Cafe at the End of the Universe.

Don’t forget to also spend time enjoying the Observatory grounds. Snap the classic pictures in front of the Observatory, stroll through the Gardens of the Zodiac, and enjoy the epic views from behind the Observatory. When you’re ready, return the way you came back down the Firebreak Trail to complete the out-and-back hike.

The Firebreak Trail: Your Pathway to LA’s Iconic Observatory

The hike up the Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory is a quintessential Los Angeles experience. You’re combining scenic trails, impressive city views, fascinating ruins, and an iconic space-age landmark into one trail. The trail showcases Griffith Park’s diversity, from woodland wilderness to modern architecture. The moderately difficult uphill hike transitions to a pleasant downhill stroll on the return. Rewarding yourself with Observatory exploration and breathtaking vistas makes the trek worthwhile.

The Firebreak Trail delivers hikers directly to Griffith Observatory’s backdoor. Following the shaded switchbacks up and the paved road down drops you right at this architectural marvel and hub for space science. Experiencing the building’s design firsthand after emerging from the remote trail is spectacular. What better way is there to summit LA’s historic Observatory? The varied terrain, ever-present views, and amazing destination at the hike’s end make the Firebreak Trail a can’t-miss Los Angeles hike.

Conclusion

The Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory rewards hikers with a dynamic urban hike culminating in staggering city views. The trail combines a woodland trek, ruins, panoramic overlooks, and a distinctive LA landmark, all in just 3 miles. Following the Firebreak Trail from the Laughlin Park neighborhood to the Observatory’s back entrance allows you to earn your iconic Griffith Observatory views. The hike uphill offers a taste of wilderness with canyon and chaparral landscapes while finishing on the Observatory’s paved road eases you back to modern civilization. With possible Old Zoo exploration, top-notch vistas, science discovery, and a tough but conquerable ascent, the Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory has something for everyone. Always a great urban hike, and even better when capped with a visit to Griffith Observatory, the Firebreak Trail is a Los Angeles must-do.

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