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Palmdale, California

Palmdale, California is a great place to explore outdoor activities and attractions. With its stunning landscapes, mesmerizing trails, and remarkable natural features, it is an ideal destination for outdoor adventurers. Popular attractions in and near the area include the Antelope Valley Indian Museum, the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, and the Prime Desert Woodland Preserve. These attractions offer visitors the opportunity to explore the area's unique culture, flora, and fauna. The Antelope Valley Indian Museum is a great place to learn about the area's past and its native inhabitants, while the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is the perfect spot to witness its mesmerizing wildflower blooms. The Prime Desert Woodland Preserve provides visitors with a chance to explore the region's unique desert ecosystem. Also, for those longing for a more active experience, there are plenty of amazing trails to explore, such as the Angeles National Forest and the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. No matter what type of outdoor adventure you're looking for, Palmdale, California is the perfect place to go.

Top Spots in and near Palmdale

  • Wrightwood, California

    Snow Hike Lightning Ridge

    5.1 mi / 900 ft gain
    When you hear the report about snow in the San Gabriels, it's time to plan this hike!Only a short 90 minute drive is all that separates nearly a third of California's population from high-altitude snowy adventures. This isn't about Yosemite, but Southern California's very own San Gabriel Mountain...
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  • Altadena, California

    Eaton Canyon to Idlehour

    4.5
    10.99 mi / 3291 ft gain
    Idlehour is nestled deep in the Angeles National Forest, so it feels like you're in the heart of some untapped wilderness instead of six miles away from a bustling metropolis. The trail camp is accessible by foot through a variety of locations, but the most popular route is through Eaton Canyon, ...
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  • Castaic, California

    Paddle Castaic Lake State Recreational Area

    6 mi
    Castaic Lake is a man made reservoir located 41 miles north of downtown Los Angeles, CA in the town of Castaic. Made up of two bodies of water, separated by a 425-foot dam, Upper and Lower Castaic Lakes have a combined 29 miles of shoreline forming the Castaic Lake State Recreational Area. The s...
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  • Burbank, California

    Hike the Vital Link Trail in Wildwood Canyon Park

    4.0
    3 mi / 1275 ft gain
    From I-5, take the Burbank Blvd exit. Drive north on Burbank Blvd. and take a right on N 3rd. Left on E Harvard. Right on Wildwood Canyon after 1.5 miles. There are a few ways you can begin your hike: from the parking lot, the entrance will be to the left past the gate. Here you were have a steep...
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  • Burbank, California

    Hike Wildwood Canyon Loop

    4.5 mi / 1800 ft gain
    The Vital Link Trail is a steep and narrow out-and-back trail accessed though the Wildwood Canyon Park located in Burbank, CA. Parking at Wildwood Canyon is free and easy, and will be determined by which of the four trailheads you choose to start from.  For the shortest and most direct route you ...
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  • Los Angeles, California

    Hike Verdugo's North Ridge Trail

    13 mi / 3221 ft gain
    The Verdugo Mountain Range is a small, rugged range spanning across the northeast end of the San Fernando Valley from Sun Valley to Glendale. With close to 50 miles of graded and well maintained trails, the Verdugos are surprisingly underutilized and make a great place for someone looking to esca...
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  • Glendale, California

    Hike Mt. Thom and Tongva Peak

    6.2 mi / 1460 ft gain
    Mount Thom and Tongva Peak are accessed by using the 6.2 mile out and back trail, Las Flores Motorway located in the north part of Glendale, CA. Roadside parking is not allowed near the trailhead, you will need to park in the nearby residential area along Sunshine Drive about 0.15 miles away from...
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  • Monrovia, California

    Hike to Monrovia Falls

    3.7
    1.5 mi / 700 ft gain
    The Monrovia Falls are at the end of the main trail located in Monrovia Canyon Park. The park is easy to locate and has ample parking. Keep in mind you do have to pay a fee of $6 on weekends and $5 on weekdays. Additionally, all cars need to exit the parking areas at 5PM. Alternatively, you can p...
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  • Los Angeles, United States

    Hike the Verdugo Crest Trail

    4.0
    6.6 mi / 2145 ft gain
    The Verdugo Crest Trail is a 6.6 mile loop near Glendale, California. The trail features lovely wildflowers in the spring and beautiful views year-round. The trail is steep, so make sure you are wearing sturdy running or walking shoes. Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be kept on leash.  Var...
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  • Glendale, California

    HIke the Brand Library Loop

    5.0
    6.56 mi / 2648 ft gain
    Your adventure will start at the Brand Library parking lot. Walk behind the library towards the gated day use area and you will find the start of the trail on your right, Las Flores MTWY. The first half-mile rises over 500 feet to a plateau, equipped with benches, a park map and views of Griffit...
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  • Pasadena, California

    Central Arroyo Seco Community Recreation Loop

    5.0
    0.66 mi / 36 ft gain
    Beautiful views of the Rose Bowl and surrounding San Gabriel Mountains. A protected .75 mile loop, that offers an easy path, to stroll along. You’ll find convenient water filling stations, clean bathrooms, and a fitness area, along the path. Easy parking all around.
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  • Stevenson Ranch, California

    Hike the Towsley Canyon Loop

    4.7
    5.1 mi / 1340 ft gain
    The Towsley Canyon Loop can be done in either a clockwise or counter-clockwise loop. The clockwise path starts with a gradual ascent through Wiley Canyon and steep descent into the Towsley Gorge while a counter-clockwise route starts with a steep climb out of Towsley Canyon and a gradual descent ...
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  • Glendale, California

    Nibley Park

    5.0
    Nibley Park is a small and secluded park with lots of trees and green area. There are a number of picnic tables and a restroom, that is ADA compliant. The playground is small but two separate play areas that are marked for their specific ages for young kids to have fun. There is also a half court...
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  • Pasadena, California

    Arroyo Terrace Trail

    5.0
    1.54 mi / 194 ft gain
    Arroyo Terrace Trail is a loop trail that takes you by a river located near Pasadena, California.
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  • Pasadena, California

    Lower Arroyo Seco Loop

    4.3
    2.88 mi / 230 ft gain
    Nestled next to the CA-134, this trail presents a relaxing atmosphere while only a 30 minute drive from Downtown Los Angeles and a 5 minute drive from Old Town Pasadena. From bird-watching to archery, this trail provides a peaceful atmosphere with no lapse in beauty. The trail which is around 1....
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  • Los Angeles, California

    Los Angeles River: West Bank Trail

    5.0
    14.4 mi / 331 ft gain
    Los Angeles River: West Bank Trail is an out-and-back trail that is good for all skill levels located near Los Angeles, California.
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