One of the greatest things about living in Southern California is the great outdoors! That is why we so often share activities you can do outside. But for this article we thought we would share some suggestions for the even more adventurous. Read this awesome post that features some of the greatest and most thrilling outdoor activities in LA.
Whether you love your adventures in the air or on land there is an experiences for you to put on your bucket list. Prepare to witness the most breathtaking views of the city from above, feel like Superman soaring over beautiful sights, discover a new mountain trail to bike through, have a thrilling zip line race with your best buddy, and much more.
Moreover, some of these activities will also contribute to keeping you fit and healthy. You can’t beat that combination of fun and well-being and its one of the reasons we all love living here so much. Choose your next adventure and enjoy, everyone!
1 – Hang Gliding and Paragliding in LA
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If you love wind sports, you must know that LA County has some of the best spots in the country where you can satisfy your sense of adventure.
Our first recommendation is Dockweiler State Beach in Playa del Rey. This is a highly popular destination for hang gliding and paragliding. You can take lessons from multiple instructors in the area and learn to glide off a 30-foot sand dune at Dockweiler State Beach or soar over Kagel Mountain Peak in the Angeles Forest.
Another fantastic option is Sylmar Flight Park. This awesome location offers a variety of launch options and excellent flying conditions for both novice and experienced paragliders. Here, you can find lessons and even opportunities for competitions.
Other sites worth checking out include Marshall Peak and Crestline, both situated in the San Bernardino Mountains.
Location: various
Pic Credit: @tripadvisor
2 – Mountain Biking
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Los Angeles offers several fantastic locations for mountain biking enthusiasts. Our first recommendation is Angeles National Forest. Here, you will find awesome trails categorized from intermediate to very difficult. Some of the most popular trails include Brown Mountain, El Prieto, and Gabrielino Trail.
However, there are plenty more, so get your bike ready and have a great time.
Second on our list is Sullivan Canyon. You can look forward to lots of adventure and beauty at this location. The downhill run winds its way under the shade of sycamore trees, and you’ll love this track. Other trails to explore include Cheseboro Canyon, located in Agoura Hills. For highly experienced mountain bikers, we recommend Turnbull Canyon in Whittier.
Location: various
PIC Credit: @Trailforks
3 – Ziplining
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Ziplining is one of the most thrilling activities that offers incredible views of beautiful sites from high above the trees. From the San Gabriel Mountains to Catalina Island, Southern California is a true gem for ziplining adventures. Enjoy the recommendations we have put together for all you zipliners out there.
Our top recommendation is ziplining through the gorgeous forest of the San Gabriel Mountains. Head over to Wrightwood, CA, for an experience like no other, filled with fresh air and a stunning forest. Connect with Ziplines at Pacific Crest and get your gear on. Ziplines at Pacific Crest offer 14 different zips, up to 1,500 ft. long, as high as 306 ft. off the ground, and reaching speeds of up to 55 mph! There are also 3 sky-bridges, a set of sky-stairs, 2 rappels, 2 leaping activities, and a side-by-side race to the finish.
If you want an awesome adventure on your next trip to Catalina Island, make sure to check out their Zip Line Eco Tour. It is an amazing ziplining experience on Catalina. You can bring your older kids too, as long as they weigh a minimum of 80 lbs. Expect 5 separate zip lines, dropping from 600 feet above sea level, with one run stretching 1,100 lineal feet long all on its own! Your adventure begins at the Hogsback Gate, high in the hills near Avalon. As you descend through Descanso Canyon, you will pause at several eco-stations along the way before continuing on your zip line journey. And if you want another fun adventure before you leave Catalina, don’t forget to visit Catalina Aerial Adventure.
Location: various
PIC Credit: @mylifeisajourney
4 – Skydiving
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Try skydiving for an intense activity that makes you feel like you’re actually flying. You’ll experience the loud, strong, and intense wind, and the whole experience will send your adrenaline soaring. So, if you have the itch for an activity that will truly wake you up and make you feel alive, don’t hesitate to try skydiving. But where should you go? We have some excellent suggestions.
Our first recommendation is Skydive Perris. It is a widely renowned skydiving center that offers a wide variety of options, including tandem jumps, solo jumps, and various training programs. With experienced instructors and modern facilities, they ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Next on our list is Skydive Elsinore. This is another highly popular skydiving center near LA, located in Lake Elsinore, about 75 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Southern California landscape and the opportunity to experience the thrill of skydiving with experienced instructors. You’re bound to love it!
Location: various
PIC Credit: @tripadvisor
5 – Rock Climbing
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Los Angeles offers several fantastic rock climbing spots for enthusiasts of all skill levels. Here, we have gathered some popular locations for rock climbing in and around Los Angeles for you to enjoy.
If you’re seeking large sandstone boulders that provide unique climbing challenges, then you must explore Stoney Point Park in Chatsworth. It’s a great spot that offers a variety of routes suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers.
Another excellent place for rock climbing is Malibu Creek State Park in the Santa Monica Mountains. The park offers both sport climbing and traditional climbing options. The popular Planet of the Apes Wall and Rock Releve areas attract climbers of different skill levels. You will enjoy the beautiful scenery and a range of climbing routes this spot has to offer.
Lastly, our absolute favorite spot is Joshua Tree National Park. We know it’s a few hours’ drive from LA, but it’s definitely worth it if you love rock climbing. The park boasts a vast expanse of unique rock formations and provides a wide range of climbing opportunities, including bouldering, traditional climbing, and sport climbing. It will surely satisfy your climbing adventure cravings.
Location: various
PIC Credit: @Theamericanalpineclub
Do you agree with our list or did we miss an obvious one? Let us know by commenting below!