Tennis court guide
Tennis in LA's scenic sanctuary
Vermont Canyon offers a tennis experience unlike any other in LA. Hidden in Griffith Park's peaceful canyon at 2715 Vermont Canyon Road, these 12 courts are surrounded by towering trees, scenic hills, and the tranquil sounds of nature — just minutes from Los Feliz and Hollywood.
What makes Vermont Canyon special is its serene atmosphere: no city noise, just birds chirping and the satisfying pop of tennis balls echoing off canyon walls. It's where nature-loving tennis players come to escape the urban grind while still enjoying top-quality courts.
What you need to know
- Courts
- 12 hard courts
- Fees
- $8–12 per hour
- Reservations
- Up to 7 days ahead
- Hours
- Daylight only — no lights
- Parking
- Free lot and roadside
- Amenities
- Restrooms, water fountain, benches — no pro shop
Why players make the trip
Scenic mountain setting
Nestled in Griffith Park's canyon, the courts are surrounded by towering trees, rolling hills, and occasional wildlife. You might spot a hawk soaring overhead or catch a glimpse of the Griffith Observatory through the treetops. Unlike typical urban courts with traffic noise and city views, Vermont Canyon offers fresh mountain air and the peaceful sounds of nature.
Welcoming community
The majority of players are beginners to intermediates who value the peaceful setting over competitive intensity. Newcomers are always welcomed, and regulars often chat between matches or invite others to join. Many players connect through Doyouplay to coordinate matches, making it easy to find hitting partners and become part of the community.
Escape without leaving LA
The drive up Vermont Avenue feels like entering a different world. It's often called a "hidden gem" — a place where you can forget about the city's hustle and focus purely on your game in a beautiful natural setting.
Perfect for tennis focus
With spotty cell reception and no urban distractions, Vermont Canyon naturally encourages you to unplug and focus on your game. Many describe it as therapeutic — the combination of physical activity, fresh air, and natural beauty creates a truly restorative tennis experience.
Make the most of your visit
From securing courts during peak times to maximizing your day in Griffith Park, here's what every Vermont Canyon player should know.
Booking strategy
- Reserve exactly 7 days ahead for weekends
- Check for cancellations day-of
- Weekday mornings often available
- Peak times: 8-11 AM weekends
What to bring
- Plenty of water (canyon gets warm)
- Sunscreen and hat for sun exposure
- All tennis balls and equipment
- Backup plan if courts are full
Cell reception
- Make plans before entering canyon
- AT&T/Verizon work better than T-Mobile
- Coordinate with Doyouplay partners in advance
- Embrace the digital detox!
Court access
- Split up to watch upper and lower courts
- Arrive early if you have a reservation
- Be friendly - community is welcoming
- Consider joining through Doyouplay
Making a day of it
- Combine with hiking Griffith Park trails
- Visit Griffith Observatory after tennis
- Picnic in the park post-match
- Explore Los Feliz for food after
Safety & comfort
- Watch for wildlife (deer, coyotes)
- Don't leave valuables in car
- Bring flashlight if playing near sunset
- Check Greek Theatre events for traffic
Pro tip: the perfect Vermont Canyon day
Book a morning court (8-10 AM), bring a picnic lunch, play your match, then hike to Glendale Peak for panoramic city views. End with coffee and brunch in Los Feliz. It's the perfect blend of tennis, nature, and LA culture — all in one morning!
