HAG WILD
Looking north across the San Fernando Valley from the Nancy Hoover Pohl Overlook at Fryman Canyon Park (Photo – Kitty Cahalan)
The Betty Dearing Trail in Studio City can be completed as a 2.6 mile or a 5.6-mile loop, but to get to either choice, one starts at Wilacre Park with a steep climb past the gate, gaining 450 feet in the first mile, with views of Studio City and fancy Hollywood Hills homes as reward.
By Kitty Cahalan
Add to the total step count by taking one of the smaller trails that branch off and loop back to the main trail. Turning south through Coldwater Canyon Park, hikers are deposited onto Iredell Lane. Complete the shorter loop by going east on Iredell and north on Fryman Road.
Or! Add three miles and some more huffy-puffy by veering to the right off of Iredell Ln just as it leaves the cul-de-sac. Continue on the Betty Dearing Trail past Gene Autry Ridge into a quieter, more sylvan canyon with several small stream crossings. A few shortcuts to the peak at Mulholland branch off, but sticking to the better-groomed trail will result in less scrambling upslope. Just before mile four, steeper climbs give way to stairs and switchbacks, but the effort is worth it as sweeping views of the San Fernando Valley to the north are revealed from the lookouts at Fryman Canyon Park. From the park, take the southeast branch of the Betty Dearing Trail to the east side of the canyon, ending at Briarcrest Fire Rd. Turn left toward Fryman Rd and take the easy stroll downhill back to the parking lot.
Sunscreen and water are always a must, but any good trail shoes should suffice, and stream crossings are minimal. Footing is asphalt or decomposed granite. Be watchful for rattlesnakes and poison oak. This hike is popular with families, joggers and dog-walkers. Dogs must be leashed.
Parking
The free parking lot at the corner of Laurel Canyon Blvd and Fryman Road fills up early most days, but spots open up frequently. A bathroom is available in the parking lot.
Hiked: 5/17/21
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