Although I’m not an avid hiker, over the years I’ve been on a few different hikes that have stood out to me where the views themselves are worth the trek. Today I’m teaming up with Cotopaxi as I share my five favorite hikes in Los Angeles. I don’t own a lot of hiking gear, but the number one item on my list when I do hike is a sturdy backpack that can carry waters, food, and a DSLR. Let me just say Doug is absolutely obsessed with the new Kilimanjaro backpack from Cotopaxi. Although he uses it regularly as a camera bag since it’s so compact and the tough suede leather bottom is so sturdy, we both use it interchangeably whenever we travel or go on hikes. It has so many different details that are perfect to hold everything you need. Its internal laptop sleeve fits most 15-inch laptops and the mesh divider is perfect to keep all our things organized. What we love about the brand is that each purchase of this specific backpack provides one week of tutoring to a child at the Kilimanjaro Kids Community in Tanzania. Some other great weekender bags from the line that I’m loving are the Kpong Satchel and Cusco 26L Backpack. Seriously, if you’re looking for a great gift for the man in your life, I’d check out this line!

5 Hikes To Try In Los Angeles

Bridge To Nowhere (Difficult): This was per Doug’s recommendation, but I remember him talking about this hike when we first met and how hard it was. This 10 mile trek near the San Gabriel River features swimming spots, river crossings, tunnels, and the ‘Bridge to Nowhere’ which is a 120 foot high concrete bridge in the middle of the canyon.

Hollywood Sign Hike (Easy-Moderate): Funnily enough, this hike was Doug and I’s first date sophomore year of college. There are two ways to take this hike (we chose the longer route), but both are fairly easy with periods of steep inclines.

Malibu Creek State Park (Moderate): I hiked this park a few years ago and it definitely stood out in my mind as being a little more difficult for me. This 8 mile canyon trek passing through creekside pools and rock formations truly is an experience and making it to the end is the cherry on top as a popular swimming area named ‘Rock Pool’ is the perfect way to cool off.

Lake Hollywood Reservoir (Easy): This 3.3 mile trail loops you around the perimeter of the Hollywood Reservoir. You sort of forget you’re in Los Angeles (minus the giant Hollywood sign) because there aren’t many manmade lakes like this one throughout the city. It’s a pleasant way to spend an afternoon with great views of the city and an easy pathway.

San Antonio Falls Trail (Easy): I’ve been hiking Mount Baldy with my Dad since I was a child. One of the best feelings I have is when I’m in complete serenity surrounded by forest and its nature and that’s exactly what Mount Baldy has to offer, peace and beauty. There are several hiking trails on this mountain, but this one is my favorite because it’s not too hard, the views are amazing, and the waterfall is spectacular.

Kilimanjaro 20L Backpack c/o Cotopaxi | Nike Free Run 5.0 (Similar) | Lululemon Jacket (Similar) | Victoria’s Secret Yoga Pants | Nike Flex Runs (Similar)

*A big thanks to Cotopaxi for sponsoring this post!

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