Lost in LA? No worries, there's a mountain for that!
Los Angeles. The land of beaches, babes, and...mountains? Yep, believe it or not, nestled right behind the glitz and glam of Hollywood are some pretty epic mountain ranges. So ditch the Hollywood Walk of Fame for a hike on the wild side, because we're about to explore the peaks that make LA more than just a flat-out fun city.
The Big Kahunas: San Gabriel Mountains
Let's start with the granddaddy of them all, the San Gabriel Mountains. These bad boys are massive, stretching east of LA like a wrinkled old bodybuilder. Mount Baldy, the tallest peak at a cool 10,064 feet, is basically LA's answer to Mount Everest (well, maybe not Everest, but you get the idea). Feeling adventurous? Hike to the top and pretend you're on top of the world (while secretly catching your breath and enjoying the epic view).
If hiking's not your thing, don't worry, the San Gabriels have you covered. Cruise along the Angeles Crest Highway, a scenic road that winds through the mountains offering Instagram-worthy views at every turn. Just watch out for rogue squirrels - those little guys are the real rulers of the road.
The Not-So-Shady Santa Monica Mountains
On the west side of LA, we have the Santa Monica Mountains. These mountains are a bit shorter than the San Gabriels, but what they lack in height they make up for in star power. That's right, the Santa Monica Mountains are where the Hollywood sign proudly proclaims its fame (though it looks a lot smaller from up close, just FYI).
These mountains are perfect for a casual hike or a scenic bike ride. They're also home to Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America. So you can hike, have a picnic, and watch a live taping of a TV show, all in one day. Multitasking at its finest!
Bonus Round: The Hills Have Eyes (Okay, Maybe Not)
LA's not all about the big mountain ranges. There are also some smaller gems scattered around the city, like the Verdugo Mountains and the San Jose Hills. These guys are perfect for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Think of them as nature's stress balls - squeeze them (hike them) when you need a break.
So there you have it, folks! Your guide to the mountains of Los Angeles. Remember, when you're tired of the beach (gasp!), there's a whole world of mountains waiting to be explored. Just don't forget your sunscreen, water, and sense of adventure (and maybe some bear spray, just in case those squirrels get any ideas).
