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Cobb Estate Enchanted Forest

4.5
·393 reviews·Altadena, United States

Explore historic ruins and hike scenic trails in Altadena's 'Enchanted Forest,' known for its natural beauty and eerie local legends.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Enjoy the view from our deck with a glass of one of our premium wines

Cobb Estate Enchanted Forest

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore historic ruins and hike scenic trails in Altadena's 'Enchanted Forest,' known for its natural beauty and eerie local legends.

4.5
(393 reviews)

"Beautiful hiking trail on the historic Cobb Estate with great views."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes

Trails can be steep and uneven. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the Cobb Estate Enchanted Forest.

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Especially for longer hikes, staying hydrated is key. There are no water sources on the trails.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Cobb Estate Ruins

Historic Cobb Estate Ruins

Main trail area

Explore the remnants of a grand estate, including a beautiful iron and stone gate. A glimpse into the past.

Panoramic San Gabriel Valley Views

Panoramic San Gabriel Valley Views

Ridge trails

Breathtaking vistas of the San Gabriel Valley and Los Angeles basin, especially stunning during golden hour.

Enchanted Forest Trails

Enchanted Forest Trails

Various hiking paths

Wander through diverse native plants and cacti on well-marked trails that offer a sense of discovery.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Mystery

The Cobb Estate Enchanted Forest is steeped in local lore, with tales of paranormal activity and historical intrigue. While it's a popular hiking spot, be prepared for an atmosphere that can feel both serene and unsettling. Many visitors report hearing unexplained sounds or feeling a presence, adding to its unique allure. TikTokInstagram

Trail Smarts & Parking

Hiking trails here range from easy to moderate, with some steep sections. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially for longer treks. Parking is typically on the street, so pay attention to signage to avoid tickets. Reddit The trails are generally well-maintained, but exploring off-path might lead to unexpected discoveries. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Golden hour
Why
Magical light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Popular for local hikers
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

(Explanation:) Sam and colby went exploring with Elton and Sam to the Cobb estate. They where walking when they seen what looked like people they thought it was a satinist cult but continued to walk along the path. They heard a girl scream and say “help me”. Later the 4 boys got chased down the path by what they think the same group. They where laughing and earlier sam metioned it sounded like “so...
@xplr25255
184.1K likes • 1.8M views

👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes

Trails can be steep and uneven. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the Cobb Estate Enchanted Forest. Reddit

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Especially for longer hikes, staying hydrated is key. There are no water sources on the trails. Reddit

Will you go on a hike? #colddays #loveyourinsecurities #fyp #foryoupage #History #altadena #LA #paranormal #creepy #hauntedtiktok #ghosts #weird
@hauntedlagirl
78.5K likes • 696.8K views
Investigating Cobb estate aka Enchanted forest in Altadena Ca New Haunted Videos Coming soon in 2025‼️👻 #spooky #paranormal #haunted #ie #explore @_ghost.xo @bigdawgg_05 @veil_bvp
ie.spooks
20 likes • 365 views

🚗 Mind Street Parking

Parking is on the street. Always check signs to avoid parking tickets. Reddit

👻 Embrace the Atmosphere

Many visitors report eerie sounds and feelings. Lean into the 'haunted' reputation for a unique experience. TikTokInstagram

Highlight from our investigation at Cobb Estate. Had to post this 3 times. For some reason it kept deleting. 🤔 #paranormalinvestigations #Hauntedplaces #paranormalinvestigator #spookyvibes #k2meter #spiritbox #ghostube #forest #enchantedforest #cobbestate#paranormalinvestigation #paranormalinvestigators #paranormalactivity #paranomal #creepyvibes #rempod #ghostequipment #spirits
jjparanormal
32 likes • 259 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes

Trails can be steep and uneven. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the Cobb Estate Enchanted Forest. Reddit

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Especially for longer hikes, staying hydrated is key. There are no water sources on the trails. Reddit

🚗 Mind Street Parking

Parking is on the street. Always check signs to avoid parking tickets. Reddit

👻 Embrace the Atmosphere

Many visitors report eerie sounds and feelings. Lean into the 'haunted' reputation for a unique experience. TikTokInstagram

📸 Capture Golden Hour

The light during golden hour is spectacular for photos of the views and ruins. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(393 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Cobb Estate Enchanted Forest for its beautiful hiking trails, stunning panoramic views, and the intriguing historical ruins. The natural beauty, especially during golden hour, is a major draw. However, some find the trails challenging, and parking can be a minor inconvenience.

"I usually don't go out on a hike on Sunday's but, I made an exception this past Sunday. The hike is 5.4 miles out and back, the hills are steep and can be tough for a beginner. Overall I was glad I went up the, the weather was amazing and the rays of the sun🌞 were really sparkling... it made the day that much brighter! Enjoy the views!"

Your Pursenality

"Great park with awesome ruins. There are several trails that all pretty well maintained and marked. The hike itself is pretty easy to moderate if choose to take the trails to the top of the ridge. Not too crowded either. The parking is on the street though so be aware of signs."

Ian Archbold

"Beautiful hiking trail on the historic Cobb Estate. Beautiful iron and stone gate still stands. You can still see remnants of where a building stood. Great views of the San Gabriel valley and Los Angeles. Lots of cacti and other native plants. Gorgeously lit at golden hour. Moderate trails with several overlooks. Friendly hikers. Cute critters."

Diego Galvan

What People Like

Beautiful hiking trails
Amazing views
Historic ruins

What People Dislike

Steep trail sections
Street parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Cobb Estate Enchanted Forest is located in Altadena, California. Access is typically via hiking trails starting from the vicinity of the historic Cobb Estate. Parking is available on nearby streets. Reddit

No, there is no dedicated parking lot. Visitors usually park on the street near the trailheads. Be sure to observe all parking regulations. Reddit

Public transportation options to Altadena exist, but reaching the specific trailheads might require a further walk or a ride-sharing service from the nearest bus stops.

The primary access is through the trails originating from the historic Cobb Estate grounds. Several paths branch out from there, leading into the 'enchanted forest' area. Reddit

While the estate itself is a landmark, the trail entrances can be subtle. Look for well-trodden paths and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Cobb Estate Enchanted Forest and its hiking trails is free. It's a public park and arboretum. Reddit

As it's an outdoor public space, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. However, it's advisable to check local park guidelines for specific access times. Reddit

There is no admission fee to explore the grounds and trails of the Cobb Estate Enchanted Forest. Reddit

While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and potential lack of lighting. The 'haunted' reputation also lends itself to nighttime exploration, but caution is advised. TikTok

No permits are generally required for casual hiking on the public trails of the Cobb Estate Enchanted Forest. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the historic Cobb Estate ruins, enjoy panoramic views of the San Gabriel Valley, and hike through diverse native flora. Many visitors also come for the alleged paranormal activity. TikTokInstagramReddit

The trails vary from easy to moderate. Some sections are steep and can be challenging for beginners, but many offer rewarding views. Reddit

Absolutely! The ruins, natural landscapes, and stunning views, especially during golden hour, make it a photographer's paradise. Reddit

You might encounter various native critters and birds. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you hike. Reddit

Crowds can vary. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, while weekends can see more visitors, especially during pleasant weather. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The historic iron and stone gate, the remnants of the estate buildings, and the overlooks offering panoramic views are prime photography locations. Reddit

Golden hour, just before sunset, provides the most magical lighting for capturing the beauty of the estate and the surrounding landscape. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone to ensure compliance.

While not official, many visitors try to capture atmospheric shots that hint at the paranormal lore, often focusing on misty trails or eerie structures. TikTokInstagram

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both the wide vistas and any interesting details of the ruins. A wide-angle lens can be great for landscapes. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Cobb Estate Enchanted Forest offers a great opportunity for families to enjoy a nature outing. The well-maintained trails provide a safe environment for children to explore, with plenty of interesting plants and critters to discover. Reddit Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider sticking to the easier, shorter loops if you have very young children. The ruins of the estate can spark imagination, and the panoramic views offer a rewarding destination for a family hike. Reddit

While the 'haunted' aspect might be a bit much for very young children, older kids might find the local legends intriguing. It's a good idea to gauge your children's sensitivity to spooky stories before delving too deep into the lore. Overall, it's a fantastic spot for an active family day out, combining exercise with a touch of local history and natural beauty. TikTok

👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts

For those drawn to the supernatural, the Cobb Estate Enchanted Forest is a must-visit. The area is renowned for its alleged paranormal activity, with many visitors and investigators reporting unexplained phenomena. TikTokInstagram+1 Bring your recording equipment, spirit boxes, or just your keen senses as you explore the historic grounds and trails. The eerie atmosphere, especially as dusk approaches, is said to amplify the experiences. Instagram

While the 'haunted' reputation is a major draw, remember to be respectful of the site and other visitors. The legends often involve tales of satanic cults or lingering spirits, adding layers of mystery to the exploration. Reddit Many TikTok videos capture the eerie ambiance and personal accounts of strange occurrences, fueling the intrigue. TikTokInstagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers

The Cobb Estate Enchanted Forest is a gem for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The trails offer a good workout with varying degrees of difficulty, leading to rewarding scenic overlooks. Reddit You'll find a variety of native plants and cacti, making it an interesting botanical exploration. The well-marked paths ensure you can enjoy the natural beauty without getting lost. Reddit

Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. The 'golden hour' light is particularly stunning for photography, illuminating the landscape and the historic ruins. Reddit It's a perfect spot for a refreshing hike that combines physical activity with the appreciation of Southern California's natural environment and a touch of local history.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Lore of the Cobb Estate

The Cobb Estate, often referred to as the 'Enchanted Forest,' is a place rich with history and local legends. Originally built by the wealthy railroad magnate Charles Cobb, the estate has seen various owners and transformations over the decades. Its current state as a public arboretum and hiking area belies its more mysterious past. Reddit Many visitors are drawn to the site not just for its natural beauty but for the persistent rumors of paranormal activity. Tales of unexplained sounds, apparitions, and a general sense of unease contribute to its 'haunted' reputation. TikTokInstagram

These stories have been amplified by paranormal investigators and urban explorers who have documented their experiences. While some dismiss these as folklore, others find the atmosphere undeniably chilling. The combination of historical ruins and the dense, sometimes eerie, forest setting creates a unique environment that sparks the imagination. Instagram

It's important to note that the area has also been affected by wildfires, such as the Eaton Fire, which have reshaped parts of the landscape. TikTok+2 Despite these events, the spirit of the Cobb Estate and its surrounding 'enchanted forest' continues to captivate those who venture there, blending natural beauty with a touch of the supernatural.

Hiking the Enchanted Trails

The hiking trails at the Cobb Estate Enchanted Forest offer a rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts. The network of paths caters to various fitness levels, from casual walkers to more seasoned hikers. The main trails are generally well-maintained and marked, making navigation relatively straightforward. Reddit

For those seeking a more challenging trek, routes leading to the ridge tops provide stunning panoramic views of the San Gabriel Valley and the greater Los Angeles area. These higher elevations offer a different perspective of the landscape and are particularly beautiful during the 'golden hour' before sunset. Reddit Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some sections can be steep and uneven, and always carry sufficient water, especially on warmer days. Reddit

Beyond the physical exertion, the trails are known for their diverse native flora, including various cacti and plants that thrive in the Southern California climate. Keep an eye out for local wildlife that calls this area home. The combination of natural beauty, historical remnants, and the unique atmosphere makes hiking here a memorable adventure. Reddit

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