As summer heat peaks in Los Angeles, finding a shady hiking trail becomes essential for outdoor enthusiasts.
Instead of listing a few specific hikes, the focus shifts to empowering hikers to discover their own shady paths.
Many local trails may go unnoticed, but with a bit of strategic research, hikers can uncover a wealth of options right in their neighborhood.
There are several key factors to consider when looking for a shady hike: the time of day and year, the day’s forecast, local topography, and tree cover.
Let’s delve into how to utilize these factors effectively to plan a comfortable and enjoyable hike.
Time of Day and Year
For those planning a hike in Griffith Park, determining the sun’s position is crucial.
This Saturday, the sun is expected to rise at 6 a.m. avid hikers can use this timing to minimize direct sun exposure.
To pinpoint where the sun rises, hikers can use their phone’s compass app.
By placing the phone flat and noting the compass bearing—around 66 degrees northeast at the time of writing—hikers can figure out moments when certain trails will be shaded from the sun’s rays.
This knowledge helps identify trails that might be shadier in the early morning, such as those near the Merry-Go-Round, including the Old Zoo Loop and Mineral Wells trails, as well as trails near Amir’s Garden.
Eastern-facing slopes typically encounter sunshine first, while southern and southwestern slopes, such as those in Fern Dell and near the bird sanctuary, are more likely to provide shade during the early morning hours.
A preliminary map indicating sun exposure in Griffith Park showcases areas that are sunny and shaded throughout the morning, helping hikers visualize how to avoid the heat.
Understanding Local Topography
When tackling local trails like those found in Griffith Park or the San Gabriel Mountains, hikers also need to consider elevation and local topography.
When temperatures soar in Los Angeles, ascend to higher elevations for cooler conditions.
For instance, areas above 5,000 feet elevation in Angeles National Forest often experience a significant drop in temperature due to the known lapse rate: for every 1,000 feet gained, temperatures can dip by approximately 3.5 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit.
Evaluating the forecast and conditions on the day of the hike will help determine the best choice.
On hot days, the parking area at Mt. Wilson can be notably cooler than the city.
Hikers looking for shady spots in these cooler regions should focus on north-facing slopes, which receive the least direct sunlight due to the sun’s consistent trajectory across the southern sky.
Trails conducive for this kind of hiking include Mt. Waterman and Mt. Baden-Powell via Vincent Gap, as well as sections of the Rim Trail on Mt. Wilson, which provide nice shade and elevation benefits.
Assessing Tree Cover
Lastly, the amount of tree cover found in a certain area greatly influences temperature and comfort.
In Southern California’s varied climate, tree types and densities vary significantly depending on the elevation and slope direction.
Oak woodlands, riparian zones near rivers, and tall pine trees at higher elevations commonly offer excellent shade and cooling effects during hikes.
While this guide covers a lot of ground, hikers should view it as a resource to assist in planning their summer outdoor excursions with more awareness and knowledge.
As an exercise, hikers are encouraged to explore local canyon maps, examining the orientation of canyon walls, their heights, and the respective trails that weave through these areas.
Such exploration can unveil new hiking options, waiting to be discovered.
Community Engagement and Events
For those looking to engage with the outdoors and the community beyond hiking, several events are happening locally this weekend.
One event includes a presentation by biologist Keith Haney on bird conservation efforts at the Madrona Marsh Preserve in Torrance.
Participants can gain insight into how the community can help reverse declining bird populations.
Another option is an art-themed bike ride hosted by People for Mobility Justice, beginning at Mariachi Plaza and featuring murals in East L.A.
This event highlights local culture while promoting healthy mobility and beginner riders are encouraged to join.
For an adventurous twist on summer nights, the Invertebrate Club of Southern California is organizing a black lighting event to observe moths during National Moth Week at Devil’s Punchbowl Natural Area.
Participants will set up black lights to attract moths and venture into the valley for a close encounter with scorpions and other nocturnal creatures.
A Related Finding
An important story in the community involves the search for a drowning victim in Sequoia National Park.
Following the tragic incident of Jomarie Calasanz, a diver named Juan Heredia has gained attention for his efforts in locating bodies of drowning victims when official searches have ceased.
Heredia has developed a reputation for helping families find closure in dire situations, further exemplifying the impact individuals can have in their local communities.
Safety must always come first in outdoor adventures, especially during intense heat.
Hikers are reminded to stay hydrated and to consider local conditions before venturing out, adjusting plans as necessary to ensure safety in the great outdoors.
In closing, as summer unfolds, leveraging knowledge about tree cover, topography, and sun exposure can greatly enhance hiking experiences around Los Angeles.
Happy adventuring, and remember to appreciate both the trail and the journey!
image source from：latimes
