Whittier Greenway Trail
Whittier Greenway Trail
4.7
(7819)
13,530
hikers
03:33
13.9km
50m
Hiking
The Whittier Greenway Trail offers a delightful urban escape, transforming an old railway line into a vibrant green corridor perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll enjoy a mix of landscaped greenery, native plants, and public art as you traverse the flat, well-maintained path. The trail passes through several parks, including Palm Park, providing a pleasant journey through Whittier's urban landscape.
This moderate 8.7-mile (13.9 km) route, with a gentle 161 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 3 hours and 33 minutes to complete. It's an excellent option for families, cyclists, and anyone looking for an accessible, smooth surface. The trail is well-equipped with amenities like benches, water fountains, and restrooms, making it comfortable for longer strolls.
Following the historic route of the Pacific Electric Railway, the trail is dotted with interpretive signs and features six "stations" that highlight Whittier's past. This historical context, combined with its role as an urban green space, makes it more than just a path; it's a journey through local heritage and a valuable community asset. It's also well-connected to public transportation, making access easy.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
12.0 km
1.43 km
448 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
9.65 km
2.81 km
1.46 km
< 100 m
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Tuesday 27 October
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This route was planned by komoot.
The trail is notably flat with virtually no elevation gain, making it accessible for a wide range of users. It features a smooth, paved asphalt surface for wheeled traffic and a separate 5-foot-wide decomposed-granite path specifically for pedestrians. It is also wheelchair accessible.
The full route, which is approximately 13.9 kilometers (8.6 miles) long, typically takes around 3.5 hours to hike at a moderate pace. This duration can vary based on your speed and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or amenities.
Yes, the trail is generally considered easy due to its flat terrain and is an excellent choice for beginners and families. Its length might make it a moderate endurance challenge for some, but the lack of significant elevation makes it very approachable.
You'll experience a blend of urban and natural landscapes. The path is well-landscaped with native plants, trees, bushes, and flower banks. Green spaces like Palm Park line the route, and you might spot various bird species, including hummingbirds and hawks. Public art, wind sculptures, and interpretive exhibits also add to the visual interest.
The trail is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for hiking. Summer can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are best during those months. The well-landscaped path with native plants provides beauty across seasons.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the Whittier Greenway Trail. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all users.
No, there are no permits required or entrance fees to access the Whittier Greenway Trail. It is a public recreational path designed for community use.
The trail connects various parks, schools, and shopping areas throughout Whittier, offering multiple access points. You can typically find parking available near the parks that line the route, such as Palm Park, or in public parking areas adjacent to the trail in urban sections.
Yes, the trail is well-maintained and designed with user comfort in mind. You'll find amenities such as benches, water fountains, restrooms, and even fitness stations at regular intervals along the path, making it a convenient experience.
Yes, the Whittier Greenway Trail is part of a larger plan to link into the Los Angeles County trail network. It also passes through sections of the Greenway Trail, offering connections and extensions for longer outings.
The trail was built on an abandoned Union Pacific Railroad right-of-way, and its historical significance is highlighted by various markers and interpretive signs along the route. The restored Whittier Depot also stands as a symbol of the city's rich history.
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