Last Day For Hikers At Popular Runyon Canyon Trail For Months

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Los Angeles fitness fanatics whose daily routine includes a hike or a run along the Runyon Canyon trail are bracing themselves for a four-month closure of the popular route.

After Thursday the trail with sweeping views of the city and the nearby Hollywood sign will be closed through the end of July while crews repair a water pipe.

The Department of Water and Power says work on the one-mile stretch of pipe is necessary to improve fire and flood protection for Runyon Canyon Park and surrounding neighborhoods.

City officials are encouraging hikers to use other trails including those at Franklin Canyon in Beverly Hills and Fryman Canyon in Studio City.

Bill Collins has been living with his son and his family in Runyan Canyon since he retired three years ago. He says hiking the canyon trail has been a perk of retirement.

"It's been a great place to run and walk and take your dogs," he said. "But I think this water line needs to be done. I think they will work hard to get it done before the estimated completion date. As it is, it will be closed until July 31, through the peak of summer. But there are other options, other open spaces and I think people will adapt."

Collins isn't sure who enjoys their walks more, him or the four family dogs, a German shorthair pit bull, a Chihuahua, a Maltese shorthair or a cockapoo. He chose to leave the dogs home, however, on his final hike through the area until it reopens.

"They stop too much and I was getting exercise today," he said.

Besides, he wanted to stop a few times himself Thursday, to look at the beautiful view of the ocean, the city and the skyline.

The Runyon Canyon yoga field will remain open during the pipeline work.

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