Three scenic hiking trails in the L.A. area that offer a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
In the heart of Los Angeles County, Monrovia Canyon Park's waterfall trail has reopened, offering visitors a chance to explore a cultural and natural treasure that has undergone a remarkable transformation.
The park, spanning 80 acres, features massive oak trees and a trail system that varies from 1.5 to 3 miles, depending on the starting point. The trail winds through a canyon, offering natural water crossings and a lush landscape that reflects the resilience of the environment.
The trail's history is closely tied to recent natural events and restoration efforts. In 2020, the Bobcat Fire caused extensive damage, followed by flooding that further damaged the park's landscape and infrastructure. Over the next five years, the park underwent renovation and recovery, with improvements such as smooth paved roads, enhanced visitor facilities, and a revitalized trail system. Monrovia Canyon Park officially reopened around late June 2025.
One of the highlights of the trail is a 30-foot waterfall located at its end. The hike, rated as moderate, gains approximately 500 feet in elevation. Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash due to the frequent sightings of bears.
For those seeking a more accessible alternative, the Ann Skager Trail in Malibu Creek State Park offers a similar experience. The Escondido Falls trail, while challenging, provides a cooler hiking experience due to its proximity to the ocean.
The Antonovich Trail, a 7.8-mile out-and-back trek, is another hiking destination near L.A. with a heavily shaded canopy of trees. For those interested in volunteering, opportunities are available at the Ballona Wetlands Land Trust, Ascot Hills park nursery, and Project Phoenix, a multiyear research project exploring birds' response to wildfire.
The Escondido Falls trail passes through oak woodlands and coastal sage scrub, providing a habitat for various wildlife, including likely lizards. Visitors can also enjoy the bloom of wildflowers, including California poppies and Matilija poppies, during their visit.
The reopening of the waterfall trail in Monrovia Canyon Park not only marks the end of a long restoration process but also highlights the site's ecological and cultural importance. It serves as a testament to the power of community effort and nature's resilience.
[1] "Monrovia Canyon Park Waterfall Trail Reopens After Extensive Restoration," Los Angeles Times, June 27, 2025. [3] "Monrovia Canyon Park: A Journey Through History and Recovery," Los Angeles Conservancy, 2025.
- In Los Angeles County, the Monrovia Canyon Park, following a significant transformation, has once again welcomed visitors, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and restored natural beauty.
- After the catastrophic Bobcat Fire in 2020 and subsequent flooding, Monrovia Canyon Park underwent a comprehensive renovation, with improvements including paved roads, visitor facilities, and a rejuvenated trail system, reopening in late June 2025.
- Reaching the end of the trail, one can marvel at the 30-foot waterfall, and for those who prefer a more accessible hike, the Ann Skager Trail in Malibu Creek State Park offers a similar experience.
- California's lifestyle, fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, home-and-garden, and travel enthusiasts may explore the area around the reopened Monrovia Canyon Park, witnessing its array of wildlife, such as lizards, and the vibrant bloom of California and Matilija poppies.
- The revitalization project at Monrovia Canyon Park is a testament to the power of community effort, government support, and science-driven restoration in preserving California's valuable natural resources and cultural landmarks.
