Beachwood Canyon to Lake Hollywood Park
Total Distance: 1.2 Miles
For an easy blend of hike and dog walk, start with your morning coffee at a local favorite, Village Coffee Shop. Take Beachwood Drive north, curving up through the mix mid-century, Spanish revival, and Deco homes built between the 20s and 40s. By the time you're rounding Mulholland Drive and headed to the park you'll be struck by the gorgeous city views and the Hollywood sign overhead. Quite an L.A. moment for a short walk. At Lake Hollywood Park you can take your dog for a run around the grass, or cool down under a shady tree.
Village Coffee Shop
2695 North Beachwood Drive (at Belden Drive); 323-467-5398.
Lake Hollywood Park
3160 Canyon Drive (at Mulholland Highway); 323-666-5046.
Santa Monica Canyon
Total Distance: 2.2 Miles
Before you set out to explore one of the Westside's most historic areas, pop into Andrew's Cheese Shop to pick up some prosciutto and scamorza sandwiches for a quick picnic. From there, head down 7th Street and right up San Lorenzo Street to the historic Marquez Family Cemetery, hidden behind a grove of avocado trees and surrounded by a wall designed by famed architect John Byers. The tiny plot was established in 1840s that is all that remains of the once expansive Rancho Boca de Santa Monica. What better way to end your trip down the canyon than at the Rustic Canyon Uplifter's Lodge, over looking tranquil Rustic Canyon Park. Designed by the noted architect William J. Dodd, the Uplifters Clubhouse, built in 1923, still stands as the Rustic Canyon Recreation Center in the Santa Monica Canyon. So whip out those sandwiches and enjoy a patch of shade in the gorgeous Uplifter's courtyard.
Andrew's Cheese Shop
728 Montana Avenue (at Lincoln Boulevard); 310-393-3308.
Marquez Cemetery
631 San Lorenzo Street (at Mesita Way); no phone.
Rustic Canyon Uplifters Lodge
601 Latimer Road (at Brooktree Road); 310-454-5734.