Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park is a dramatic desert wonderland, with striking rock formations that point skyward at a 45-degree angle. This 932-acre Los Angeles County Park delivers a scenic desert backdrop for hikers, and is just a quick drive from LA. This pairing of unique beauty and convenience has made Vasquez Rocks a popular location for the film industry and the park has a long list of credits, including Star Trek, Blazing Saddles, and The Flintstones.
Several hikes are possible in Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park. For something short, enjoy a half-mile exploration of Famous Rocks, the most recognizable rock formation in the park. The Pacific Crest Trail crosses the park and can be connected with a Foot Trail to form a 3.4-mile loop with 325 feet of elevation change. The loop passes through impressive sandstone formations and presents great views of the park. The loop can be extended by continuing down more of the Pacific Crest Trail through an interesting canyon to reach a tunnel beneath Route 14 where the PCT exits the park. Combine the loop and the extension for a 5.3-mile hike with 375 feet of elevation change. When you’re done, climb around the Famous Rocks at the heart of the park to bring the day’s trek to 5.9 miles round trip (or 4 miles without the extension to the tunnel).