Griffith’s Glow

Griffith Observatory Sunset Hike, Space Themed Events, and Star Parties

03.09.2017

Griffith J. Griffith believed that people gained an enlightened perspective on life when looking at the skies. So true! Especially when you gaze upon a glorious LA sunset and moonrise from Griffith Observatory, which also hosts space-themed events and star parties. {This Saturday, April 11, 2026, the Observatory is hosting a no-fee and full day of free space-themed activities for all ages starting at 12:00 p.m. Explore their Calendar of Events to learn more.}

For a short path to enlightenment, take a late-afternoon walk up the 1.5-mile round-trip East Trail to the observatory. You’ll revel in the glow of the fading sun and the emerging city lights far below as you stroll a path that’s suitable for all ages and fitness levels. After you park, walk to Vista del Valle and look for a shaded picnic bench and a sign that reads “Boy Scout Trail”—it’s easy to spot the wide path from there.

The hike begins a bit steep but levels out quickly and offers views of Hollywood and downtown as you circle up Mount Hollywood. At around the quarter-mile mark, the dome of the observatory becomes visible, and you’ll cross a paved road to continue on the trail. Once you reach the observatory, take in the view of the Hollywood sign and watch the golden haze of sunset drape across the city’s twinkling lights until the sky fades and the moon rises.

Mingle Among the Stars: Once a month Griffith Park hosts a no-fee celestial party. It won’t exactly have you bumping shoulders with the stars, but gets you close enough. Amateur astronomers set up their telescopes for the curious to spot anything from Saturn to the star Vega. The observatory also opens up its two massive scopes, the Zeiss and the coelostat. Find star parties and more on the Observatory's Calendar of Events.

To get there, take Vermont Ave. north to Vista Del Valle. Park for free on Vermont north or south of Vista Del Valle. You’ll find paid spots up closer to the Greek Theatre. Then find the start of the trail on Vista Del Valle at the picnic bench. The trail is dog friendly, but pets are not allowed in the observatory. The observatory is free, but to see a planetarium show, tickets must be purchased.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Perles Beach Angel Island San Francisco Bay

    Secret Beach

    A hidden beach and a killer view? Those are hard to come by, but that’s exactly what you’ll get at Perles Beach on Angel Island. Bike or hike to this beautiful pocket cove.

    View

  2. Cinematic Sonoma

    Longer days. Golden light. Wildflowers in bloom. It’s the perfect moment to plan your spring escape to Sonoma for the Sonoma International Film Festival, March 25–29. No fuss. No sprawl. Just films, friends, fresh air, and that unmistakable Sonoma glow.

    View
  3. Hike Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve

    Mellow in the Marsh

    Beach, birds, ice plant popping purple flowers: That’s a hiking slam dunk! Hike about 2 miles at Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve using their easy to navigate (well-signed) Sequoia Audubon Trail.

    View
  4. A man is looking through his binoculars at sunrise at the Bayland Nature Preserve in Palo Alto

    Baylands Bird & Art Loop

    Combine an outdoor art walk and wildlife sightings at the Baylands Nature Preserve in Palo Alto. This 5-mile loop through Byxbee Park and the Emily Renzel Wetlands features striking installations by artists Peter Richards and Michael Oppenheimer—where the landscape itself becomes part of the canvas.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Tree Town

    Home to an estimated 21,000 trees and 100 acres of parkland, South Pasadena has earned its nickname: the City of Trees. This 2.5-mile neighborhood walk lets you experience its leafy canopy up close, winding through charming streets and three of the city’s beloved parks.

    View

  2. A Better Way to Baldwin

    The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook in Culver City is one of West L.A.’s most popular hiking spots, but most visitors miss the bigger picture. This 3.5-mile out-and-back along a section of the Park to Playa Trail offers a fuller experience of this gorgeous nature park with sweeping urban views and a few artistic surprises along the way.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Warm Up to Winter in Reno Tahoe

    2026 is just getting started, but there’s one place already rising to the top as the best for adventure and relaxation: Reno Tahoe. The awe—and ahhhs—begin as soon as you arrive. G

    View
  4. A woman standing at the pond's edge at Ernest B Debs Regional Park in Los Angeles. Trees are making reflections on the pond.

    Urban Oasis Loop

    Home to the city’s Audubon Center, Ernest E. Debs' 282-acre park features a robust network of hiking trails and surprising wildlife diversity. More than 140 bird species have been spotted here. Birdwatcher or not, this 2.5-mile route makes for a gorgeous outing.

    View