Hiking dates in LA
Key facts
| Best time in warm months | Early morning or later afternoon |
|---|---|
| Bring | Water, sunscreen and a hat |
| If you get lost | Stop, think, observe, plan |
| Group hikes | Sierra Club Angeles Chapter, open to non-members |
A hike is a good LA date. You walk side by side, the views fill any silence, and it is free. A bit of planning keeps it safe in the heat.
A Griffith Park trail, done right
Park rangers and the LA Fire Department say to stay on marked paths, keep your distance from wildlife and keep dogs on a leash. In warmer months, hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Bring water, sunscreen and a hat.
Source: City of Los Angeles: Hike in Griffith Park, checked 8 November 2026
End at the Observatory
Time your walk to finish at Griffith Observatory, which is free and open until 10pm, Tuesday to Sunday. On clear nights you can look through a public telescope. It is a natural place to sit down and talk.
Source: Griffith Observatory: About, checked 8 November 2026
Join a group hike first
The Sierra Club's Angeles Chapter runs thousands of outings a year, from day hikes to backpacking, open to members and non-members. You can search by date, activity or zip code. It is an easy way to meet people who like the outdoors.
Source: Sierra Club Angeles Chapter: Activities, checked 8 November 2026
Questions
Is a hike a good first date?
A short one is. Pick a busy, well known trail, and save long or remote hikes for later.
What if there is a heat or fire warning?
Change the plan. A museum or the beach is a better choice on a hot, dry or windy day.
Should I tell someone where I am going?
Yes. Share your plan and the trail with a friend, and keep your phone charged.
Read next
Our sister site Smooch has more first date ideas. WhichDating, our sister review site, compares dating apps in the US.