The city of La Canada Flintridge is a nature lover's paradise. It is a perfect choice for a camping trip, a picnic in the park or a visit to gardens that will inspire you to get your own green thumb going. This charming city is in Los Angeles County and makes for an easy day trip for anyone living in or visiting Southern California.
In 1996, La Canada Flintridge was awarded the title of "Trail Town USA" by the American Hiking Society. There are several excellent hiking and riding trails. The Waterman Mountain and Twin Peaks hikes are popular during the late spring, summer and fall. In the winter and early spring, Waterman is a ski area, attracting snow bunnies and hotdoggers alike. The mountain's peak is at an elevation of 8,038 feet. The parking area for the trails is on Angeles Crest Highway.
Chilao Recreation Area offers 111 campsites, some of them accessible to RVs. There are no reservations for sites. There are restrooms, a picnic area and a visitor's center with exhibits. Drinking water is available. The elevation of Chilao Recreation Area is 5,300 feet. It offers hiking into the San Gabriel Wilderness and the Pacific Crest Trail. The recreation area is located at 460 Oak Grove Drive, La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011.
A favorite La Canada Flintridge destination is Descanso Gardens, one of California's most beautiful and diverse garden displays. This 160-acre gem is a gardener's dream. It includes a rosarium, art gallery, lilac garden, camellia forest and an enchanted miniature railroad. There are ponds with ducks and turtles, and there is a bird observation area with information on the species that come to feed and rest. A Japanese garden is a favorite, with its bridges and Japanese Tea House. Near the entrance is a gift shop, and food is available in the snack area. For those who prefer to picnic, there is a pleasant area just to the right of the entrance to the gardens. The gardens host family-friendly programs during the year, which include night walks, gardening classes, cooking courses and evening concerts. There are wine tasting courses, as well. You may also arrange to have your wedding at the gardens.
Descanso Gardens is located at 1418 Descanso Drive, La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011. Descanso is open every day from 9 to 5 except Christmas Day.
If you are planning to visit the area in May, look into visiting next-door neighbor city Pasadena's Jet Propulsion Laboratory's annual Open House. This event celebrates JPL's accomplishments and ongoing research. The Open House is a great educational opportunity and is fun for the whole family. Admission and parking is free. JPL is located at 4800 Oak Grove Drive, Pasadena, CA 91109.
