Franklin Canyon in Beverly Hills ⋆ Explore California with kids

Important: A bunch of post on Yelp mention a Stop Sign at the entrance. Apparently there’s a camera and if you violate the law and roll by it you can get a juicy ticket, which will certainly taint the experience. It’s amazing to see all the various techniques that the well off people employ to ward off anyone not from their socioeconomic part of the neighborhood.

Reaching for the top of the Palm at Franklin Canyon

Two very unique and so different hikes are located right next to each other at the Franklin Canyon Park. Depending on your mood or the level of preparedness you have two options to choose from.

Winding path around the lake in the Upper Franklin Canyon

Franklin Canyon with kids

1. Franklin Canyon hike – this is an approximately 3 mile hike up to the peak at the top of which you’ll see the neighborhood of Beverly Hills, Century City and Santa Monica. This route is self-chastising, quite strenuous especially on a hot day, and is intended for those who’d like to break a sweat and workout.

Flower that smelled like wheat / bread – native to the local Beverly Hills flora

Definitely not the best hike for children. We’ve walked this path a few time prior to having a child and definitely would recommend brining some electrolytes with you, especially if you’re hiking during the summer month. Consider going here without children.

Franklin Canyon hike path view from above

Upper Franklin Canyon with kids

2. On a contrary, the Upper Franklin Canyon is laid back and will greet you with a tranquil atmosphere. The majority of the paths are located in the shade of various trees and in fact is very relaxing. The winding paths around the lake are ideal for hiking with little kids. Perfect for day naps.

Purple flowering trees all over the Santa Monica Mountains, Beverly Hills

It really is pleasant to hide away from the urban environment for a minute and pretend if you were in the forest. Franklin Canyon in Beverly Hills could be a mini gateway trip to nature that many of us who live in a big city could use once in a while.

Upper Franklin Canyon hike path view from above

We saw a few families with little kids having picnics and simply enjoying the time with each other.

“Franklin Canyon”
Address: Hastain Trail, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Parking: Free
Length: 2.5-3.0 miles (60 min)
Elevation change: 774 ft or 235 meters (minimal-moderate)

“Upper Franklin Canyon”
Address: Mountain Recreation & Conservancy, 2600 Franklin Canyon Dr Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Parking: Free
Length: 1.0-2.0 miles (30-40 min)
Elevation change: 404 ft or 123 meters (minimal)