Discover the Picturesque Longridge Park Hiking Trail (Sherman Oaks, CA)

Me and the hubs out to discover new hiking trails in the San Fernando Valley, hit up Dixie Canyon Park first, in Sherman Oaks. First of all, Park??? There is a clearly marked trail that leads to, well, nowhere. At a certain point, after hiking about ten minutes, the trail (?) becomes WAY too narrow and dangerous with loose gravel and mud pockets. We had to turn around and head back the way we came. This is a charming little spot if you live in the direct vicinity of the "Park". It is very green and shaded over. On the plus side, the drive up is VERY pretty. Dixie Canyon is tucked into the hills of a picturesque, upper class neighborhood, full of McMansions, and all around beautiful homes of varying architecture. After Dixie Canyon I wasn't ready to go home. So, I chose for us to visit Longridge Park (?) 

Longridge Park Trailhead is located up in the hills of Sherman Oaks, at the end of a lovely residential street. Again, the drive up was spectacular, through a fairy tale looking neighborhood. I understand why Longridge may be referred to as a park, as it offers a sweeping view of the city and several places to picnic. However, it is a pretty small, secluded place. That I immediately fell in love with! After a short hike uphill you are gifted with long spanning views of the valley. If you so desire, there are a few clearing spaces to picnic while enjoying the views. (Bring a blanket as there are no benches). Me and the hubs continued along the trail, stopping to take in even more beautiful views. A few in particular made us feel like we were in the Shire, with it's rolling, plush, green hills. There is a second clearing halfway up the trail that offers more privacy for picnicking if you so desire. 

The trail ends abruptly on the outskirts of someone's private property. I have become pretty spoiled I realized, as I appreciate a good loop trail. Anyhow, the trail is very clean and pretty, with yellow and purple wild flowers gracing the landscape. I judge it to be Easy (beginner level), kid and dog friendly. We had the entire place to ourselves! It would be a great place to visit around sunset with your significant other. A BIG plus was the drive back onto Ventura Blvd. Ventura Blvd. in Sherman Oaks / Studio City is absolutely charming! Lined with snooty shops, bakeries and cafe's. Hubby took me to SusieCakes (explaining they are said to have the most delicious cupcakes). We both enjoyed a Guinness® chocolate cupcake, filled and frosted with Baileys® buttercream. Yummy! it was delicious!

Yeah, so, make a day of it! Do a little hiking, followed by window shopping and snacking along Ventura Blvd. Please enjoy the photos I took of Longridge Park, and happy adventuring!