If you need a break from Los Angeles and need a break from the traffic and smog there is a great hike in Runyon Canyon. Just north of Hollywood Boulevard there is a gorge running right up into the hills. It is one of Hollywood's best-kept secrets and a beautiful natural experience to have within driving distance of work. The park is completely dog friendly and can either be an enjoyable walk or an intense hike depending on the level of exercise you are looking for.

There is a portion of the park that is designated for leash-less dogs and you can feel free to let your dog run free. The paved trail runs from the bottom of the park all the way to the top. It runs a distance of about two miles and can be walked in about an hour roundtrip. This is also known as a great spot to have a celebrity sighting. In addition to it being a beautiful escape it is also the place many celebrities go to hike or to walk their dogs.

When hiking the park make sure to take plenty of water with you. At the top of the trail there is no running water until you get back down to the bottom. Take a bottle for you and for your dog as well. The park tends to get crowded on weekends, but is still plenty of fun. Admission and parking are free and there are occasionally yoga classes offered at the base of the trail.

For more information about hiking please visit http://www.go-hiking.info for all of your hiking needs.