> WHEN YOU GO

Get there: Everyone flies to LAX, but Air Canada (aircanada.com) is partnered with United in Star Alliance and has multiple daily flights to Los Angeles. Get around: You can rent a car, but I made my way from hike to hike in L.A. using Uber, which was even able to get a car to me way out by the entrance to Topanga State Park in less than 20 minutes. Stay: Loews Hollywood Hotel (loewshotels.com/holly wood hotel) is the “Oscar hotel,” located right by Hollywood Blvd. and Highland Ave., next to the Dolby Theatre. Stay where the stars stay, within sight of the Hollywood sign. Do your research: Discoverlosangeles.com