The diverse natural landscape around Los Angeles is not lost on film-makers. L.A.’s backyard has played a role in many movies, TV shows and commercials. With Oscar season reaching its pinnacle this weekend, here are ten So Cal hikes with a cinematic theme. You can get some fresh air and exercise while paying homage to one of your favorite Hollywood heroes, and perhaps you may recognize a location you’ve seen on the big, or small, screen.
Borrego Springs – While San Diego County’s Anza-Borrego Desert State Park may be a bit of a drive for L.A. residents, it’s a very worthwhile destination. Known for its hot springs, palm oases and spring wildflowers, the park and the nearby town of Borrego Springs has been used in many movies, including “Into the Wild” and “Serenity.”
Crystal Cove State Park – This scenic park along Orange County’s coastline has been used in “A Few Good Men”, “Beaches” and more.
El Dorado Regional Park – Long Beach’s diversity has made it a popular alternative to Los Angeles for filming. The city’s large El Dorado Regional Park has been used as a locale in many movies, including “American Pie.”
Franklin Canyon – This pleasantly secluded spot in Hollywood has been used in many films, including “Rambo: First Blood Part 2”, “Minority Report”, “Silence of the Lambs” and “Platoon.”
Herb Jeffries Trail – Part of the popular Bump’n’Grind loop near Palm Springs, the namesake of the Herb Jeffries Trail is a prolific African-American singer/actor, who was once a mainstay in Duke Ellington’s band. According to his Wikipedia entry, Jeffries is currently 98 years old and still performing. The nearby estate of Bob Hope gives this spot additional Hollywood cred.
Hollywood Sign – This landmark needs no introduction, of course, but if you’re going to visit it, perhaps try a more interesting—and challenging route—than the standard approach from Griffith Park. This western approach, through land once owned by Howard Hughes, takes in some great views while providing quite a workout.
Leo Carillo State Beach – Many people recognize the Korean Friendship Bell in the film “The Usual Suspects.” That movie also uses this beach in western Malibu, where the protagonists scatter the remains of their fallen companion. The park (which features many hiking trails as well as the beach) is named for a cowboy actor famous in the early 20th century.
Point Dume – The famous concluding scene from “Planet of the Apes” is one of many times that this dramatic beach locale in Malibu has been filmed.
Portuguese Point – The dramatic views from this spot on the Palos Verdes Peninsula have made it a popular filming location. It was used in “It’s A Mad Mad Mad Mad World” and “Creature from the Black Lagoon.”
Will Rogers State Historic Park – In the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains, easily accessible to Los Angeles, this park is on land donated by the famous cowboy actor. Inspiration Point is a popular destination, with panoramic views, and the park is also the eastern terminus of the Backbone Trail.
If these ten hikes don’t give you enough nominees for your choice of Best Oscar Weekend Hike, last year’s list is also included. Whether or not your favorite actors and movies come away with gold this time, a visit to one of these destinations can be a nice way to spend Oscar weekend – or any other.
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