Temescal Canyon Park

Natural Setting

Set in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Temescal Canyon Park spans 141 acres of breathtaking natural terrain within the Santa Monica Mountains. This natural area provides an escape from city life with its scenic canyons, ridgetop views, and extensive trail network.

Meandering through the lower canyon is Temescal Creek, a year-round stream that brings life to the landscape. If you're lucky enough to visit after a good rain, you might catch the small but charming waterfall in action - nothing compares to the peaceful sound of water cascading down the rocks after a rainy day.

Trails and Views

Lacing through oak and sycamore-filled canyons, the park's trails provide an ideal setting for both casual strolls and more ambitious hikes. The Temescal Canyon Trail is a local favorite - a 2.6-mile loop that takes you through both shaded canyon floors and exposed ridge sections.

The views here are impressive. On clear days, you can take in panoramas of the Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica Bay, and even spot Catalina Island on the horizon. Turn around, and there's the Los Angeles skyline peeking through the mountains when the air is clear.

If you're up for a bit more of a challenge, the Temescal Ridge Trail offers a more strenuous climb, while the canyon trail provides a gentler, cooler descent under the canopy. Got extra energy to burn? Extend your adventure to Skull Rock for a more substantial 5.5-mile journey.

Flora and Fauna

The park showcases Southern California's diverse ecosystems, from coastal sage scrub and chaparral to lush riparian woodlands. Keep your eyes peeled for chipmunks darting between rocks or wild rabbits nibbling at the undergrowth in quieter corners of the park.

One thing to watch out for: poison oak can be found along some trail sections, particularly after the rainy season when everything is growing with enthusiasm. Best to stick to well-worn paths if you're not confident in identifying it.

Connections to Other Parks

Temescal functions as a gateway to the broader "Big Wild" area, connecting seamlessly with trails in Topanga State Park and Will Rogers State Historic Park. This connectivity means you can easily extend your outdoor adventure if a couple of hours just isn't enough.

A convenient feature is that the south end of the park is just a 10-minute walk from Will Rogers State Beach. You can go from mountain trails to ocean waves in a short time - useful for days when you want both hiking and beach time.

Visitor Amenities

Your journey likely begins at Temescal Gateway Park, the main entrance area that is a launching point for most visitors. Here you'll find picnic grounds fantastic for a pre-hike fuel-up or post-trail relaxation, clean restrooms, and parking options.

Kids will appreciate the playground, but it lacks shade coverings - usually not a problem thanks to the mild coastal climate. Clean restrooms are available across the park, saving you from having to cut your adventure short.

Parking and Access

You can try your luck with free parallel parking along Temescal Canyon Road, but spaces fill quickly during peak times. If convenience is worth a few dollars to you, paid parking lots are available for $12.

One of the park's best features is its strategic location - you're close to both the beach and the charming Palisades Village (about a 20-minute uphill walk). This makes Temescal Canyon Park an ideal stop in a day of exploring this beautiful corner of Los Angeles.