Alhambra is renowned for its abundance of breathtaking outdoor attractions. One of the best ways to enjoy them is to pull on your walking shoes, pack a lunch, and take a hike. Here is a selection of local treks to inspire your next on-foot adventure.
The Six Peaks
If you love hiking, you won’t be able to resist the allure of Southern California’s six highest peaks: Mt. Wilson, Cucamonga Peak, Mt. Baldy, San Bernardino Peak, Mt. San Jacinto, and San Gorgonio Peak. Natives of Los Angeles might be familiar with the Six Pack of Peaks Challenge, created by Jeff Hester of SoCalHiker, which attracts thousands of hikers every year. Mt. Wilson Trail is one of the most popular of the six peaks: an adventure that starts at Chantry flats and is about 13 miles to the top. It takes around six hours to complete, and you can reward yourself at the top with a chili dog or a Frito pie. Experienced hikers would regard this climb as moderately challenging, and a map is highly recommended.
Ernest E. Debs Regional Park
Ernest E. Debs Regional Park offers excellent views of Highland Park and downtown Los Angeles and would be a spectacular spot to celebrate the Fourth of July. Parking is free, with ample spaces available at both the western and eastern entrances. Romantics will linger in the shade by Peanut Lake, and dog lovers will be happy to know they can enjoy this trail with their best canine friend.
The Secret Stairs
The Secret Stairs is the name of a walking guide by LA Times journalist Charles Fleming. It describes 42 individual walks around historic staircases in Los Angeles.If you follow Fleming’s directions, you will cover about 2.7 miles and almost 1,000 steps winding through some very beautiful neighborhoods. You will need about an hour for this walk, and you can even download a mobile app at the official website.
Eagle Rock Canyon Trail
Eagle Rock in Topanga State Park is a popular destination for hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers, and is a great walk for beginners. Fun fact: The park is traversed by two fault lines — the Topanga and the Santa Ynez faults. This hike is approximately 2.2 miles one way, and when you reach the top, you can see the ocean and the west side of the San Fernando Valley.
Pasadena Hiking Pacers
If you are looking for a sense of community with an enthusiastic, like-minded bunch, the Pasadena Hiking Pacers take to the trails every Sunday at 7 a.m. The group ranges from beginners to advanced, and tackles new places every week followed by a well-earned breakfast. You can bring your dog on this one, too.
LA River Expeditions
For a change of terrain, you might prefer to tackle some watersports with LA River Expeditions. Start at Rattlesnake Park and paddle downstream about 2.4 miles, through rocky sections and short rapids, to Egret Park. The return trip involves a well-worn mountain bike trail, adding another exhilarating leg to a wonderful experience. The river expeditions sell out early every season, so book well in advance.
From the mountains to the ocean, from the historic San Gabriel Mission to the glorious coastline, the opportunities are endless for grabbing your backpack and enjoying the beautiful landscapes that surround Alhambra.
Image “California: Hiking around Lake Tahoe” by eliduke, used under CC BY 2.0 / Cropped from Original
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