Griffith Park : Wild Backside 3hr e-bike tour small group

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path in Los Angeles and see a side of Griffith Park that few visitors experience, this Wild Backside 3-hour e-bike tour might just be your ticket. For $150 per person, you’ll spend three hours riding upgraded electric bikes through natural terrain, along rivers, tunnels, and scenic overlooks, all led by a knowledgeable local guide. It’s a fun way to combine outdoor adventure with a dash of LA’s urban charm.

What drew us in was the chance to explore the less-visited backside of Griffith Park, away from the crowds of the Hollywood Sign and Observatory. We also appreciated the opportunity to weave along the LA River, exploring architectural bridges and tunnels that are often missed on standard tours. Plus, stopping at the largest avocado tree in the USA and dancing at Cathy’s Corner (a nod to the “La La Land” dance scene) added memorable touches.

A couple of considerations: this tour is geared toward confident cyclists, as the terrain includes natural chaparral-covered areas and some hills. It’s not suitable for children under 16 or those under 5’1”. Also, since it doesn’t include the Hollywood Sign or the Observatory, it’s best for travelers wanting a more wild, less touristy experience. Overall, if you’re keen on nature, scenic views, and a bit of LA’s quirky charm, this tour offers excellent value.

This experience suits those who enjoy active outdoor pursuits, want a fresh perspective on Griffith Park, and appreciate small group, personalized tours. It’s particularly appealing if you’ve already done the classic LA sights and are craving something more authentic and adventurous.

Key Points

• Unique route: Explores the rarely-visited backside of Griffith Park for a more wild experience.
• Upgraded e-bikes: Fully loaded with torque sensors, fat tires, front shocks, and step-through design for comfort.
• Diverse scenery: Mountains, rivers, tunnels, and LA’s architectural bridges & tunnels.
• Local insights: Led by expert, CPR/First Aid-certified guides who know the area well.
• Includes snacks & safety gear: Water, snacks, helmets, and high-visibility vests are provided.
• Limited group size: Small, private groups ensure a personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Griffith Park Wild Backside Tour

If you’re after an adventure that combines urban wilderness with LA’s iconic landmarks, this tour hits the sweet spot. The tour starts at a convenient meeting point—a double-story gray building next to Hugo’s Tacos, marked clearly with “E Bike Tours LA.” Once you’re geared up with a comfortable, fully loaded e-bike, your guide (whose name you might find in reviews as friendly and knowledgeable) will take you on a three-hour journey that’s both exhilarating and informative.

The Itinerary: A Balancing Act of Nature and City

Initially, the tour follows a path similar to the popular G’day LA route, giving you a taste of Griffith’s main sights. But the real magic happens when you peel off at Cathy’s Corner, famous for its dance scene in “La La Land.” From there, you’ll venture into natural areas, riding across terrain covered in chaparral—think dense bushes and rugged paths—heading toward Beehive Rock for sweeping views of the San Gabriel Mountains. This stretch is especially appealing for those who enjoy scenic vistas and a bit of an outdoorsy challenge.

The tour then continues to Travel Town, the Ranger’s Station, and the Autry Museum, offering a mix of history, culture, and wildlife. You’ll glide along the LA River, a feature that both locals and visitors often overlook but which here becomes a scenic highlight, with views of architectural bridges and tunnels that showcase LA’s engineering ingenuity.

In neighborhoods like Los Feliz and Atwater Village, you’ll experience authentic LA neighborhoods, far from tourist crowds. The ride wraps up with stops at Love Lock Bridge and, notably, the hugest avocado tree in the country—a fun, quirky highlight that sparks conversation and photos.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The upgraded e-bikes are a major plus—they feature fat tires that handle bumps smoothly, front shocks for comfort, and step-through frames that make mounting and dismounting easy, especially for less experienced riders. The bikes’ torque sensors and powerful 750-watt motors give confidence on hills and uneven terrain, meaning you can focus on the views and experience rather than exertion.

Your guide, certified in CPR and First Aid, adds a layer of safety and local insight. Many reviews mention how guides are friendly, enthusiastic, and eager to share stories that make each stop more meaningful.

Scenic Highlights and Stops

• Cathy’s Corner: A delightful spot with a whimsical history, where you can imagine Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling dancing away in the LA skyline.
• Beehive Rock: Offers panoramic views, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the mountain scenery.
• LA River: An unexpected oasis that’s more urban than you might think, providing a different perspective on LA’s landscape.
• Largest Avocado Tree: A quirky and fun stop that’s perfect for a quick photo and some giggles.
• Atwater Village & Los Feliz: Authentic neighborhoods with local charm, cafes, and street art.

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Practical Details: What You Need to Know

What to bring: Sunglasses, comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes are essential—think sneakers or sturdy walking shoes. Given that the tour includes natural terrain, avoiding open-toed shoes or sandals is advised for safety.

What’s included: The tour supplies high-quality helmets, high-visibility vests, phone mounts, and secure rear racks for your personal belongings. There are also complimentary snacks and water, which come in handy after a few hours of riding.

Group size & booking: Small groups or private tours are available, ensuring a more personalized experience. You can reserve now with the flexibility of paying later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Considerations

While this tour offers a fantastic mix of scenery and adventure, it’s important to note that it isn’t suitable for children under 16 or anyone under 5’1”. The terrain can be uneven and physical, so confident cycling ability is recommended. If you’re expecting a relaxed sightseeing ride, this might not be the best fit; it’s more active and outdoorsy.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This e-bike adventure is perfect for travelers who want to see a different side of Griffith Park—away from the crowds and into its wilder, natural areas. It’s ideal if you enjoy outdoor activities, scenic views, and exploring unique LA neighborhoods. It’s also a good fit for those comfortable on bikes, since the terrain can be uneven.

If your goal is to combine a bit of exercise with sightseeing, and you’re curious about LA’s lesser-known corners, this tour offers excellent value. Plus, the small group size and expert guides make for a safe, engaging experience that feels personalized. Whether you’re a local wanting a new adventure or a visitor seeking an authentic experience, this ride is a memorable way to see LA’s natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While the bikes are designed for comfort and ease, confident cycling on varied terrain is recommended. Riders should be comfortable riding on natural, uneven surfaces.

What is included in the price?
You get a fully loaded, upgraded e-bike, safety helmets, high-visibility vests, phone mounts, snacks, and water. The guide is also included, providing insight and safety.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, this tour is not suitable for children under 16 or those under 5’1”. It’s best for confident teenage riders and adults.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, sunglasses, and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Avoid open-toed shoes or sandals for safety reasons.

Does the tour go to the Hollywood Sign or Observatory?
No, this tour focuses on the wild backside of Griffith Park, LA River, and neighborhood stops—not the Hollywood Sign or the Observatory.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately three hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure.

What kind of terrain will we ride on?
Expect natural chaparral-covered terrain, hills, tunnels, and paved paths—suitable for confident cyclists.

Is the group size small?
Yes, small or private groups are available, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.

Can I book now and pay later?
Absolutely. You can reserve your spot without upfront payment and cancel if needed, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This Griffith Park e-bike tour delivers a lively mix of outdoor exploration, scenic views, and local color, perfect for those wanting to see LA’s natural side without the crowds. With high-quality bikes, expert guides, and a thoughtfully curated route, it’s a memorable way to experience the city’s wilderness and urban charm alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: