Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area Los Angeles
A sprawling urban oasis offering panoramic LA skyline views, serene gardens, and miles of scenic trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area Los Angeles
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling urban oasis offering panoramic LA skyline views, serene gardens, and miles of scenic trails.
"This place is such a gem. There's a pedestrian bridge connecting to Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook as well. "
🚗 Free Parking Hacks
Seek free parking on side streets near the disc golf course or via Norman O. Houston Park to avoid the $10 fee.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking, so wear comfortable shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Various viewpoints throughout the park
Soak in breathtaking vistas of the Los Angeles skyline, especially stunning at sunset.
Serene Japanese Garden
Japanese Garden
Find tranquility in this beautifully maintained garden, a peaceful escape within the park.
Extensive Trail Network
Throughout the park
Explore miles of jogging and hiking trails offering diverse scenery and exercise opportunities.
Community Yoga Sessions
Various open spaces
Join donation-based yoga classes for all levels, fostering community and wellness.
Planning Your Visit
Parking Fees & Access
Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Free Parking Hacks
Seek free parking on side streets near the disc golf course or via Norman O. Houston Park to avoid the $10 fee.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking, so wear comfortable shoes!
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone to snap incredible photos of the LA skyline, especially at sunset.
🧺 Picnic Essentials
Pack a picnic to enjoy the many scenic lawns and designated picnic areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Free Parking Hacks
Seek free parking on side streets near the disc golf course or via Norman O. Houston Park to avoid the $10 fee.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking, so wear comfortable shoes!
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone to snap incredible photos of the LA skyline, especially at sunset.
🧺 Picnic Essentials
Pack a picnic to enjoy the many scenic lawns and designated picnic areas.
🧘♀️ Yoga for All
Check out the donation-based community yoga sessions; they welcome everyone!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area for its stunning city views, peaceful Japanese Garden, and extensive trail system, making it a beloved urban oasis. However, the recent $10 parking fee and closure on Mondays/Tuesdays have been points of frustration for some.
"Kenneth Hahn State Park is a true gem in Los Angeles! The hummingbird garden is absolutely magical—peaceful, colorful, and full of life. The park offers plenty of space to explore, with numerous trails that make you feel as though you've escaped the city while still being close to everything. The highlight for me is the view; it is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking sights of LA you'll ever come across. From the skyline to the mountains, it’s picture perfect. This is definitely a spot I’ll keep coming back to!"
Bobbie Boharski
"This location offers several smaller trails that can be combined into a larger loop, which is what we did. We parked on the street on one side of the park and made our way up and around, creating a full-circle route.
You can customize your hike—make it short or long depending on your energy or time. We took on the bigger loop, and I’d rate it as an easy to moderate hike overall. There’s only one steep incline, which comes near the end when you’re heading from the information center back up toward the big park area - where you can play "frisbee golf".
There’s also a few official parking lot, one near the Blue Lagoon and Japanese Garden, with a fee of around $8–$10. Facilities (like restrooms) are mostly located near this area, so make sure to bring water, especially if you’re hiking mid-day when it can get warm.
Dogs are allowed on leash, just be aware there are limited water fountains once you’re in the middle of the loop.
Beautiful views of the city throughout most of the trail"
F T
"Truly Love love this place. No matter you want to walk along the lake & have some self reflection time🩵, Or take your kids here for a lovely family time..this is the right place! ——💰Daily Pass: $8 (8.2025), annual pass is about $190."
Joanne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area is located in Los Angeles. You can drive there, but be aware of the $10 daily parking fee. Some visitors suggest parking on side streets near the disc golf course or accessing the park via Norman O. Houston Park for free alternatives.
While specific public transport routes can vary, checking local LA Metro bus schedules for routes serving the Baldwin Hills area would be your best bet. Many visitors opt for driving due to the park's expansive nature.
The park gates are typically locked after sunset, so it's not open late at night for city views. It's also important to note that the park is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Yes, there's a pedestrian bridge connecting Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area to the Stoneview Nature Center across the boulevard, offering another way to explore the area.
Paid parking is available within the park for $10. However, some visitors have found free street parking options, though these may require a walk to enter the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a $10 daily parking fee to enter Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area. This fee applies every day of the week.
Yes, some visitors report finding free parking on side streets near the disc golf course or by accessing the park via Norman O. Houston Park. This requires walking into the park.
No, tickets are not required. Entry is based on parking fees. You can simply drive in and pay the daily parking fee.
Yes, the park is now closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. It's also important to note that the gates are locked after sunset.
Information on discounts for frequent visitors is not readily available. The current system is a flat $10 daily parking fee.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors love the panoramic city views, especially at sunset, the peaceful Japanese Garden, and the extensive network of hiking and jogging trails. There are also picnic areas and workout courses. +1
Absolutely! Kenneth Hahn offers a variety of jogging and hiking trails suitable for different fitness levels. The trails provide scenic routes through the park's diverse landscape.
Yes, it's a great spot for families. The park has picnic areas, open lawns for play, and the trails are generally accessible for children.
Definitely! Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area has numerous picnic lawns and designated areas perfect for a family outing or a relaxed lunch with friends.
You can expect stunning, panoramic views of the Los Angeles skyline. The views are particularly spectacular during sunset and at night.
📸 📸 Photography
The most popular spots for photos are the viewpoints offering expansive city skyline vistas, especially during the golden hour before sunset. The Japanese Garden also provides beautiful, serene backdrops.
Yes, Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area is renowned for its spectacular sunset views, making it an ideal location for photographers looking to capture the Los Angeles skyline bathed in warm light.
Drone usage regulations can vary by park and municipality. It's best to check the official Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation website or contact the park directly for current drone policies.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or videography may require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors and private property.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for cityscapes. Early mornings can also provide soft light and fewer crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds, the natural environment itself provides ample opportunities for imaginative play. The serene Japanese Garden can also be a calming spot for a family stroll. Just be mindful of the parking fee and the park's closure days (Mondays and Tuesdays) when planning your visit.
🚶♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
In addition to the trails, there's a dedicated workout course within the park, allowing you to combine cardio with strength training. The panoramic city views serve as a motivating backdrop for your fitness routine. Remember to bring water and wear appropriate athletic gear.
📸 Photographers and View Seekers
The Japanese Garden also offers a more tranquil and aesthetically pleasing setting for photography. Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' before sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Be aware of the park's closing time, as it's not open late for nighttime city views.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Views
Beyond the general trails, the park connects to other natural areas. A notable feature is the pedestrian bridge that links Kenneth Hahn to the Stoneview Nature Center, expanding your exploration options. This connectivity makes it a great place for a longer outdoor adventure. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as you'll likely be doing a good amount of walking or hiking to fully appreciate the diverse landscapes and vistas.
For those seeking a more structured workout, the park also features a workout course. This allows visitors to combine their scenic walks or hikes with exercise stations, making it a comprehensive destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The combination of natural beauty, urban views, and recreational facilities makes Kenneth Hahn a unique urban oasis.
Community and Wellness at Kenneth Hahn
+4The 'BreatheGood' yoga events, for instance, emphasize community and self-care, encouraging attendees to 'meet up with your friends and make new ones' while focusing on personal well-being. The donation-based model makes these sessions accessible to a wider audience, reinforcing the park's role as a community resource. These events are often held on Sundays, adding to the park's appeal as a weekend destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Beyond yoga, the park's general atmosphere encourages a sense of peace and tranquility. The Japanese Garden offers a serene space for quiet contemplation, complementing the more active pursuits available. This blend of recreational activities and wellness-focused events makes Kenneth Hahn a multifaceted destination for both physical and mental health.
Navigating Parking and Access
However, resourceful visitors have identified alternative parking strategies to avoid the fee. These include parking on side streets near the disc golf course or utilizing the nearby Norman O. Houston Park. These options require a bit of a walk to enter the main park area but offer a way to enjoy the park's amenities without the daily charge. It's also worth noting that the park now has closures on Mondays and Tuesdays, which is a change from previous operations.
Furthermore, for those who prefer not to drive or are looking for different entry points, the park's connection to the Stoneview Nature Center via a pedestrian bridge provides an alternative access route. This interconnectedness allows for a broader exploration of the Baldwin Hills area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit