

(Photo by pht0matt via the LAist Featured Photos pool on Flickr)

There's been a change over at Runyon Canyon Park, and it's going to alter the way a lot of Angelenos hike their favorite path.

Rumors circulated throughout L.A. last week claiming part of the trail would be closed off, limiting access to the hike at Solar Drive — a popular access point for Runyon trekkers. Turns out, the rumors were true: a gate was recently installed by a private property owner on the trail near the entry point.

City Councilman Tom LaBonge said he is working with the Los Angeles City Attorney, the Department of Water and Power and the Department of Recreation and Parks to determine the city’s rights and options regarding the gate.

LaBonge said he's been discussing the possibility of acquiring 14 acres of property to expand Runyon with the property owner for years now.

Needless to say, hikers are up in arms about the newly installed gate. Flyers have been posted calling on people to take action and tell LaBonge they "don't want Runyon carved up."

The discussions between the city and the property owner over at Solar Drive are on-going. But if there's one thing people shouldn't mess with, it's Angelenos' hiking rights — especially on one of the most trekked trails in L.A.