Vista Hermosa Natural Park, Mountains Recreation & Conservation Authority

Reminds me of parks in Paris. This one really is a hidden gem. I love the dog friendliness and the abundance of green grassy picnic zones. Perfect to bring a book and lean against a tree. Lots of benches, walking paths and nooks and crannies to get lost in. Highly recommend!

Vista Hermosa Natural Park holds a special place in my heart as one of my favorite spots in LA. The iconic view of downtown LA from the park is something you've likely seen in countless movies. I make it a point to visit as often as possible. The park boasts numerous beautiful spaces, ensuring you never feel crowded. Walking through, you'll encounter lovers, birthday parties, and adorable dogs, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.

A word of advice: it's wise to leave the park as soon as the sun sets and darkness falls. Skunks make an appearance, and while they generally avoid people, it's a good idea not to disturb them. So, what you might mistake for kittens are, in fact, skunks. It's a natural park, and they have their place there. Just a heads up!

Despite the skunk encounters, Vista Hermosa is an excellent place to spend the day. Whether you want to relax under the trees, enjoy quality time with a loved one, or have a paint party with your best friends, this park is the perfect setting. It encapsulates the quintessential LA scene you often see in movies – a true gem in the city.

Vista Hermosa Natural Park, managed by the Mountains Recreation & Conservation Authority, is a hidden gem within the heart of the city. This urban oasis provides a serene escape from the bustling city life. The park's well-maintained trails offer breathtaking views of downtown Los Angeles and the surrounding hills. The lush greenery, diverse flora, and peaceful ponds create a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll or a rejuvenating hike. The thoughtful design of the park includes educational elements, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts and families alike. The park's commitment to conservation is evident in the carefully preserved natural beauty. The staff's dedication to maintaining the park's cleanliness and tranquility enhances the overall experience. Vista Hermosa Natural Park is a testament to the successful integration of nature and urban living. Whether you're seeking a quiet retreat, a scenic workout, or a family-friendly outing, this park is a true haven. Highly recommended for those looking to reconnect with nature without leaving the city limits.

I love to come here to talk to my dog. It's awesome because it has beautiful views of downtown L.A. It's very spacious. The only downfall would be that there are skunks in the area. Please be careful and respect the land please.

I recently visited Vista Hermosa Natural Park and was blown away by the natural beauty of the area. There are plenty of walking paths that wind through the park, offering scenic views of the surrounding hills and countryside. The park is also filled with lush green open fields, making it the perfect spot for a picnic or outdoor activities.

I love spending time in the great outdoors, and Vista Hermosa Natural Park is definitely a must-visit for anyone who enjoys hiking, walking or just being in nature. There's something for everyone here, whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike.

Overall, I highly recommend Vista Hermosa Natural Park to anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing escape from the city. The park is well-maintained and offers plenty of opportunities to explore and connect with nature.

It's a beautiful Park with an amazing view to the downtown LA

A really nice spot to get some nature in the middle of the city!
Most of it's pretty accessible no matter your physical limitations, although not all pathways are paved. Just watch out for tree roots or the odd random dog waste if you leave the path.

Don't go if you deeply dislike other people, children, the working class, immigrants, or dogs, as you'll see a lot of all those demographics at this park at pretty much any time.
Please do go if you're okay with all of that, want to get a good view of DTLA, and might enjoy a surprisingly long walk (the trek from parking and main gate to good lookout spots is pretty short, but trails criss-cross the whole park and you can do multiple laps without getting bored).

It's a pretty clean, safe spot in general; the shadiest thing I witnessed was just some people discreetly smoking cannabis in the bushes (don't even narc because that's perfectly legal here 🙏🏼).
There are public bathrooms, although you may wish to bring your own water because flow to the fountains has been limited due to drought restrictions.

The park "closes at sundown", but you don't need to run right out -- just start heading to the exit around dusk and maybe have your phone or flashlight handy to illuminate your way since the paths aren't lighted.
If you arrive by car, it's right off the freeway and Glendale / Beverly Blvds.

Have fun and enjoy your chill time!

What a hidden gem in the busy downtown neighborhood. Amidst the high rise concrete jungles, this is a natural oasis that’s full of tress and beautiful flowers.

I was researching for a Photoshoot spot for my daughter’s graduation, I found many of the graduations picture on google that were taken here. The beautiful view had just mesmerized me. I decided to go and check out this place.

This park has many play grounds for the children and hiking trails for the adults. Many people also come here to have a picnic and to enjoy the spectacular view of downtown LA skyline.

There is a spot at the top of the park that has the full view of the downtown skyline. There are two beaches here, one is facing the skyline and the other is facing the park. For those of you who are dating, this is like the romantic inspiration point in the old Hollywood movies.

For Photoshoot, golden hours bring out the best shots with golden sunlight splashes all over the skyline, the result is spectacular.

Parking is limited in the park but you find a few spots on the street.

Incredible park. It feels very forested, but also has a lot of nice tree covered fields, and is dog friendly. Right next to downtown but you can barely hear the city.

I love this park. Great Downtown view. I just dislike that people don't pick up their dog waste and it smelled bad in some parts of the park other than that is beautiful

Beautiful park located near by downtown Los Angeles. A scape from the city noise and traffic. Excellent for picnics, workouts and walk out your dog. Dogs must be on a leash.

Beautiful park on the heart of the beat of the city. Highly recommend. Luckily enough to run into a “birthday picnic in the park”
So creative and so beautiful! I highly recommend for a relaxing day on nature.

Amazing views of DTLA easy hike.

Less than a mile from the Westin and so quaint and green. Very well kept and the views were fantastic. Great for running and getting a few laps in. LA needs more parks like this one. I ran here from my hotel and had no problems, sidewalks were wide.

This is a great park to take your dog on a leash. The park isn't too big, so when there are a few other groups of people it can feel crowded. I recommend visiting during the work week if you can.

Also I should mention that the ground is really soft/muddy after the morning dew and of course after a rain, so don't wear nice shoes or heals. (My friends had wedding photos here and everyone's shoes were a mess for the wedding)

Came here because I seen a vlog on youtube naming this park as a must see in LA/PCH. Can't remember the vloggers name but he said don't feel intimated here because there is alot of pretty people here lol. Well didn't see many women here but must of seen six shirtless guys all juiced out. There is restrooms available and a playground. This spot also has the famous view of the bench over seeing downtown LA. Overall, best park in LA my opinion. Also, lots of spots with tables that are in corners on the park for privacy. Stair friendly.

Awesome little park overseeing the downtown buildings. The playground is for little ones, probably not for 6 years old and up. There is a trail that goes around the park that makes you seem like you are walking in the woods. I am sure it would be a romantic walk at night with the downtown high-rise lights

Simply beautiful views. Family Park. Lots of time to relax and enjoy a picnic. So many beautiful spots within the park. Room for lots of sports. I really enjoyed this place. It's a must come and a must do for a relaxing afternoon. Our friend went to propose at that park.

Very incognito. Has picnic tables and benches in different areas of the park. Doggy friendly as well.

First thing i smelled was Rosemary when I got out, gifted me a JOLT of happiness right away...✅ 😊...

Such a beautiful place to visit. Bring some water and snacks and leave the electronics inside the car, unplug for an hour, your mental health will thank you!