Worsham Wow Factor

Hiking Worsham Canyon in Puente Hills Los Angeles

Extreme makeovers aren’t just for homes or celebrities. Garbage dumps are finally getting their time to shine too! Hikers may find it surprising that much of the available natural space in Puente Hills is due to the existence of a 500-foot-high, 700-acre- wide landfill that’s in the process of a major transformation. The Habitat Preservation Authority is converting the space into walking trails, a bird observatory, a BMX track, even a gondola to a three-story café. Go on a 4.2-mile (round-trip) hike gaining over 1,000 feet in elevation for a first look at the park’s evolution, and to enjoy some brilliant panoramas. Begin at a marked gate and a sign for the Elderberry trail. After a gradual ascent on a fire road surrounded by a dazzling array of purple lupine blooms, keep to the right at the Workman trail junction.

As you slowly come down among grass meadows, enjoy endless southern views of Orange County and its city skyline, as well as Santa Monica to the west. Continue along the northern slopes of Worsham Canyon, currently dotted in bunches of blue-bells. Eventually you’ll come to a steep ascent for a grand finale filled with views of the secluded canyon itself. Keep left at the following two junctions and marvel at the San Gabriels to the north as you descend back to the Elderberry trailhead.

worshamcanyon2-image-jpeg

To get to the trailhead, take the 60-E to the 19-S (Rosemead Blvd). After just over 2 miles on the 19, take a left onto Beverly Blvd. Five miles from this turn (and after the road becomes Turnbull Canyon Rd.), the small dirt lot will be on your right. If the area is full, make a U-turn and take advantage of street parking once the permit-only signs disappear. Keep your eyes peeled for a white gate, otherwise the parking area may be easy to miss. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  2. Screaming Good Garden

    Combine a classic scary movie backdrop and life-size elephant garden sculptures in beautiful downtown Sonoma.

    View
  3. A Hike to the Past

    This 5.2-mile redwoods hike through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space combines a relaxing stroll with unique geologic formations and historical artifacts.

    View
  4. Golden Mile

    Dubbed the Golden Mile, this car-free stretch of road in Golden Gate Park features rotating art installations of murals, sculptures, and abundant bright yellow Adirondack chairs for kicking back to relax. See Naga, the recent new addition here, an impressive sea serpent art installation at Golden Gate Park's Rainbow

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View
  2. Welcome to the Ice Age

    Only in LA can you stumble upon a lake of bubbling black goo right in the middle of the city—complete with a life-size family of mammoths frozen in time. Take a whiff and you’ll catch the unmistakable scent of asphalt: Yep, you’ve made it to the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.

    View
  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View
  4. Mulholland's Most Majestic

    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

    View