Rocking Kindness: Monrovia

Find Gratitude Rocks in Monrovia Los Angeles County

Woman kneeling down to look at an art rock tribute to firefighters in Monrovia

While there may not yet be a rock snake along a Los Angeles trail (let us know if you find one!), there are opportunities to find inspiring stone artwork in the San Gabriel Valley. In Monrovia you can search for rocks hidden throughout the town, in all kinds of interesting spots. (Check out local group, Monrovia Kindness Rocks, for more info!).

The idea for this rock project is simple: a message of kindness, hope, inspiration, gratitude, or just a beautifully painted rock (many with holiday flair) can help someone have a better day or general outlook. Wander around and find some favorites, they're hidden everywhere (in trees, on the sidewalks, near plants, and so forth).

undefined

Two must-sees? The geological gardens are the “Hillcrest Library Garden” in front of a house at the southwest corner of Myrtle and Hillcrest, created by Carrie Lynn Barker. Her goal was simple: inspire people to read more and discover books they might never have heard of. Or discover that some of their favorite movies (i.e The Birds) are actually based on books. And don't miss the “thank you” rock pile in front of Monrovia Fire & Rescue’s headquarters, honoring their heroic efforts during 2020’s Bobcat Fire. Because firefighters are rock stars in their own right.

BONUS HOT DRINK: Pair a Peppermint Nutella Latte or an O.M.G. Fruit Tea from Cup of Cha Tea House with your heartwarming rocks walk.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. All right, Almaden!

    Take a trip through time on this 5-mile loop in Almaden Quicksilver County Park. Explore the ruins of an old cinnabar mine and enjoy the first hints of wildflower season.

    View
  2. Waterfalls and Wine Pours

    Cooler temps, green hills, and the return of our magnificent waterfalls! This family-friendly 2-mile hike at Uvas Canyon County Park in Morgan Hill is a great way to get the most out of a short hike post-rain.

    View
  3. Woman hiker is climbing up the ladder in the Steep Ravine section of the Dipsea Loop Trail on Mount Tam

    Misty on Mount Tam

    Mount Tam’s 3.9-mile round-trip Steep Ravine and Dipsea Trail Loop weathers the wets and wilds with some confidence, sheltered in parts by redwoods, and wowing with a waterfall.

    View
  4. Mile-Long Cataract Club

    In winter after heavy rains, the north flank of Mount Tam glows with flows. The nearly mile-long series of waterfalls—Cataract Falls—transforms into a supercharged spectacle. Starting at Alpine Dam, a 1.6 mile (one-way) narrow trails threads through redwoods and ferns along Cataract Creek.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Peace Labyrinth

    Hidden in LA’s historic West Adams district, the Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens is a welcome respite from the norms of urban noise.

    View
  2. Weekend Sherpa Podcast: Take It Outside

    Adventure for your earbuds. What's new in the world of the outdoors? Listen to Weekend Sherpa co-founders discuss local hikes, beaches, bike rides, camping spots and all kinds of travel and adventure in California and beyond!

    View
  3. Hikers sitting on a large rock slab next to Three Sisters Falls in Cleveland National Forest Southern California near Julian

    Three Sisters

    Good things come in threes at this hike to a lovely trio-tiered waterfall in Cleveland National Forest. The 4.25-mile out-and-back hike rambles among rolling hills, with rocky mountain views as switchbacks take you down to a lush canyon and the falls.

    View
  4. People gathered around a tree at an LA Park as part of the Tree Tour led by Stephanie Carrie

    LA's Tree Tour

    Los Angeles is famous for its iconic palm trees but did you know that LA is home to one of the most diverse urban forests in the world? With over 1,000 different tree species lining its streets, LA offers a unique urban canopy waiting to be explored. One of the best ways to discover it is by joining a Tree Tour

    View