Vista Hermosa, Echo That!

Explore Vista Hermosa Natural Park in Echo Park

Vista Hermosa Park in Echo Park Los Angeles

Tucked in Echo Park, the little-known gem of Vista Hermosa Natural Park feels worlds away thanks to its serene beauty and thoughtful design. At 11.5 acres there’s still plenty to explore. And it's got a premier view of the iconic Los Angeles skyline.

Woman standing at Vista Hermosa Park Overlook, looking out to the Los Angeles downtown skyline

Woman walking a path among trees at Vista Hermosa Park in Echo Park Los Angeles

Woman on grassy lawn at Vista Hermosa Park in Echo Park Los Angeles

Wander along the half-mile walking path lined with coastal sagebrush and chaparral. Areas of grassy knolls are perfect for playing frisbee with your dog, and an abundance of live oaks and sycamores offer shady spots for grabbing a cat nap or reading a book. A waterfall, and turtle and snake sculptures add artful elements.

Woman sitting on a bench overlooking the Los Angeles downtown skyline in Vista Hermosa Park Echo Park

Woman standing above a small waterfall in Vista Hermosa Park Los Angeles

Woman enjoying a spacious lawn area at Vista Hermosa Park in Echo Park Los Angeles

But probably the best thing is seeing the iconic skyline peeking through the trees. It’s a beautiful blend of urban and natural landscapes. Find the double bench on top of the hill and enjoy the view!

Woman walking a treelined pathway in Vista Hermosa Park Los Angeles

From the CA 110-N, take exit 23C toward W 3rd St./Miramar St. After taking the ramp and merging on W 3rd St./Miramar St., turn right onto S Beaudry Ave. Make a left onto W 2nd St. After about 0.3 mile, turn right onto N Toluca St. Park in the lot on the right-hand side or along Toluca St. Dog-friendly.

Story and photos by Yvonne Pasquini, @yvonne_pasquini

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Sponsored

    Redding Lights and Silent Nights

    Give your holiday events calendar a major glow up this winter in California’s sunniest city. Redding is a revelation: Surrounded by iconic scenery like Mount Shasta, Lassen Volcanic National Park, and Whiskeytown National Recreation Area.

    View
  2. A Hike to the Past

    This 5.2-mile redwoods hike through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space combines a relaxing stroll with unique geologic formations and historical artifacts.

    View
  3. Golden Mile

    Dubbed the Golden Mile, this car-free stretch of road in Golden Gate Park features rotating art installations of murals, sculptures, and abundant bright yellow Adirondack chairs for kicking back to relax. See Naga, the recent new addition here, an impressive sea serpent art installation at Golden Gate Park's Rainbow

    View
  4. Hike at Olompali State Historic Park in Marin

    Historically Serene

    Olompali State Historic Park is a small park that packs big California history. Go on a mostly easy 3-mile loop hike where oak trees, big-leaf maples, and madrones are stunning in autumn.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. The Undead Ghost Town

    Every Halloween, the worlds of the living and the dead blur together. In the “living ghost town” of Randsburg that condition is permanent. This strange gold-rush town near the El P

    View
  2. Montebello Mission

    Adorable animal feeding, peaceful bird watching, and delicious beer drinking? Hello, Montebello! This northeastern city has fantastic views of the hulking San Gabriels and a variety of green spaces, not to mention great spots for beer(s)!

    View
  3. Woman kneeling by the creek at Chino Creek Wetlands

    Wetland Wander-Fall

    Chino Creek Wetlands is proof you don’t always have to go far to find an escape in nature. Located in the heart of Chino in part of the Santa Ana River watershed, the Chino Creek Wetlands has 1.7 miles of trails, but really this is a place to explore without a lot of fuss.

    View
  4. Mulholland's Most Majestic

    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

    View