Lower Scholl Canyon Park

A Mountain Retreat

Positioned in the eastern part of Glendale, California, Lower Scholl Canyon Park is a hidden 6.2-acre haven nestled in the Verdugo Mountains. If you're looking to escape the city buzz without actually leaving town, this secluded spot offers shady trees and a peaceful atmosphere.

What makes this park special is its end-of-road location that keeps the crowds (and noise) at bay. Surrounded by the leafy streets of the Oak Knolls Canyon neighborhood, it feels more like a woodland retreat than a city park.

Layout and Basics

The park splits into two distinct personalities: a lower portion with natural shade and tranquil vibes, and an upper section with more open spaces to spread out.

The restrooms here are surprisingly well-kept (always a pleasant surprise in a public park!) and usually stocked with the essentials. A nice touch is the addition of sinks near the covered picnic areas - excellent for rinsing off sticky hands after snacks.

Picnic Paradise

Both levels offer picnic options, however they work differently. The lower level tables operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so early birds definitely get the worm here. If you're planning something more organized, the upper level has covered gazebos that require advance reservation and payment through Glendale city.

The concrete tables, some nicely sheltered from the sun, make this a great spot for family gatherings. And for those who take their outdoor eating seriously, there are two BBQ pits where you can show off your grilling skills.

Kid-Friendly Zones

The park caters to children of different ages with two distinct playground areas - one designed for little ones ages 2-5 and another for the bigger kids ages 5-12. Both feature the usual suspects: slides and climbing structures that will keep the young ones entertained.

Just a heads-up: on sunny days, the playground equipment can heat up significantly as there isn't much shade covering these areas. Parents will appreciate that the playground near shelter 3 sits right in front of the picnic area, making it easy to keep an eye on the kids while socializing.

Getting Active

If sitting around isn't your thing, the park offers hiking trails and shaded paths where four-legged friends are welcome too. The lower area features a generous grassy field that's well-suited for impromptu games of tag or just rolling out a blanket for cloud-watching.

There's enough space in the fields for softball or baseball if you've brought equipment along. Nature lovers should know that the park borders wild habitat areas where coyotes occasionally make appearances - something to keep in mind if you're bringing pets.

Good to Know

Finding the entrance can be a bit tricky your first time. Follow Glenoaks Avenue past the 210 freeway until it dead-ends, then turn right up the hill. Parking is somewhat limited with just a small lot by the entrance, so arriving early on weekends is wise.

Your phone might not cooperate here - reception can be spotty in this tucked-away location. The Glendale Parks Department does a good job keeping things clean and maintained, but you might encounter some natural residents like wasps, particularly if you're having a meal outdoors.