While hiking is not my forte, Runyon Canyon has over time become a favorite spot when I need to change my cardio routine.  Starting at the bottom of the Hollywood Hills, Runyon is one of the trails that has portions so steep, running is just not realistic.  But I didn’t pick this spot strictly for the exercise…

Midway up the trail, you can sit on a pair of park benches, look to the south, and see ‘Los Angeles’.  To your left is the downtown skyline.  Right below you is the Cinerama Dome and Sunset Boulevard.  To the right is Century City.  And behind you is even more trail…

If your lungs can take it, climbing to the top will make you feel like James Cameron.  To your left will be Griffith Planetarium and the Hollywood sign.  On a clear day, to the south you can see as far down as LAX.  To the right on a clear day you can see WAY past Century City.  Peaceful, serene, natural.

Then you have the long hike down fighting gravity and dog poop to get back to your car…