Lower Franklin Canyon Loop

Dogs Unknown

Features Views

Using the Hastain Trail and the Discovery Trail, this hike makes a loop through Lower Franklin Canyon while offering up views of the L.A. area.

This loop begins from the trailhead for the Hastain Trail off of Lake Drive. The path climbs gradually as you parallel Lake Drive moving southward. Along this section of the trail, you'll have great views of Santa Monica and L.A.'s Westside.

The trail then bends toward the east and continues to climb further. As the trail once again bends to turn to the south, it leaves Franklin Canyon Park land briefly before returning to the park. After this bend, you'll reach a viewpoint offering more views of L.A. and Santa Monica Bay. From here, the trail descends the steep hillside on a windnig, narrow path before reaching the Doheny Ranch area of the park, at which point the trail runs into Lake Drive. Once at Lake Drive, the Hastain Trail ends and you'll follow the road to the north briefly before reaching the start of the Discovery Trail on your left.

From here, follow the trail as it heads northward along the hillside between Lake Drive and Franklin Canyon Drive. After hiking along the trail through the walnut woodland for 4/10 of a mile, it will return to Lake Drive, at which point the trail ends. Hike north on Lake Drive for roughly 200 ft. to reach the trailhead for the Hastain Trail and to complete the loop.

Thanks to John McKinney, The Trailmaster, for sharing this trail description. To learn more about trails in California, check out his guides at The Trailmaster Store.