Riding to the Griffith Observatory is one equine bucket list item I’ve already crossed off my extensive docket of goals. The Griffith Observatory is an iconic tourist destination for anyone visiting Los Angeles. I’ve hiked to the Observatory many times, but last Friday Fira and I had our first visit together.
I have already posted several of these photos on my Instagram account, but I thought this special ride was worthy of a blog post. Fira is only four, but she handled this experience like an old trail horse strolling along a familiar path. Commotion from cars, buses, and tourists roared around us. We weaved our way through the parking lot to the front of the Observatory for some photos of course.
The view of the Observatory is always impressive, but it looks even better between these familiar brown ears.
My friend Britt and her handsome pony Louie joined us for the morning. Louie is an amazing Welsh and Paint Horse cross. He’s fearless on the cross country course and also excels in dressage. These two were perfect together and got along great the entire ride.
I’m so proud of Fira and love how far she’s come.
Our original destination was Mt. Hollywood. However the weather was on our side – there was a nice breeze and it was overcast. From Mt. Hollywood, the Observatory isn’t far so we decided to ride down since the horses were not going to overheat. The entire journey took us five hours from my house. We went at a leisurely pace and stopped to take plenty of photos along the way, but this was my longest ride with Fira to date.
Mt. Hollywood is the second tallest peak in Griffith Park at 1,625 ft. On a clear day you can see panoramic views of the Hollywood sign, downtown L.A. and Glendale. We had wonderful visibility on our ride and the views did not disappoint.
I’m so lucky to have Griffith Park as my playground and place to trail ride. To my left is downtown Los Angeles.
Fira and I still have so many new places to explore! I want to ride to the Hollywood sign and the Bronson Bat Caves (the place where Batman and many other movies were filmed).
New reader? Learn what is like having a horse in the city.
What are some of your bucket list riding goals?
Tracy says
This is so cool! It’s so different from anything here in the Midwest — I love seeing the awesome adventures you take with Fira and what it’s like having horses in a huge city!
Raquel says
Thanks Tracy! It really is! I never really enjoyed trail riding in Ohio because it was so flat. I love all the places to explore out here.
Jennifer Gail Zeller says
So cool! I just find myself feeling claustrophobic riding through traffic and such like that! But you seem not to mind it and neither does your gorgeous mare! what a fun time!
Raquel says
It’s a little unnerving at first but now it doesn’t bother me. It’s so good to expose her to these things too.
Lori L Walker says
I am in awe of all this!! And that’s nice mare you’re riding. Well done girl!!
Raquel says
Thanks Lori! We are certainly enjoying these rides together!