Temescal Gateway Park, Los Angeles - A fountain in a park glows at dusk.
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Temescal Gateway Park Los Angeles

4.6
·353 reviews·Los Angeles, United States

A 141-acre preserve with oak canyons and scenic views, though currently facing closures due to damage.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Greenery is vibrant, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Temescal Gateway Park, Los Angeles - A fountain in a park glows at dusk.

Temescal Gateway Park Los Angeles

Best Time

Spring mornings

Greenery is vibrant, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 141-acre preserve with oak canyons and scenic views, though currently facing closures due to damage.

4.6
(353 reviews)

"It's my solace, my favorite place on earth."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Trail Status First

Park closures are common due to damage. Always verify trail accessibility before you go.

Vehicle Safety Alert

Be aware of smash-and-grab car break-ins in the vicinity. Don't leave valuables visible.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Oak and Sycamore Canyons

Oak and Sycamore Canyons

Within the park's trail system

Explore lush canyons with mature oak and sycamore trees, offering a serene escape and beautiful natural scenery.

Scenic Views

Scenic Views

Various viewpoints along trails

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the surrounding hills and potentially the Pacific Ocean from elevated points.

Event Facilities

Event Facilities

Designated event areas

A picturesque setting for gatherings, offering a natural backdrop for special occasions.

Planning Your Visit

Trail Status & Safety First

Temescal Gateway Park has experienced significant damage, leading to closures. Always check the official park status before visiting. Be aware of potential smash-and-grab incidents in the area and take precautions with your vehicle.

Plan for Trail Conditions

Recent rains have impacted trails, with some areas closed for recovery. If Temescal is inaccessible, consider nearby alternatives like Los Leones or Topanga State Park for your hiking adventures.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Greenery is vibrant, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Escape weekend rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Franklin Canyon Park 2600 Franklin canyon drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 #oasis #hiddengem #explore #losangeles #hike #lake #serene
@didi14310
70.4K likes • 522.6K views

Check Trail Status First

Park closures are common due to damage. Always verify trail accessibility before you go. Reddit+1

Vehicle Safety Alert

Be aware of smash-and-grab car break-ins in the vicinity. Don't leave valuables visible. Reddit

My favorite hikes around LA episode 2 📍 temescal canyon park 15601 Sunset Blvd Pacific Palisades, CA
taannr
1.5K likes • 42.7K views
reddit.com

Temescal canyon

Consider Alternatives

If Temescal is closed, Los Leones or Topanga State Park offer great hiking. Reddit

Waterfall Potential

After rains, the park can feature beautiful waterfalls. Reddit

reddit.com

You cannot get into Will Rogers State Historic Park or Temescal Gateway Park even though Sunset is open. The guards said they turned dozens of people away. Save yourself a trip.

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Trail Status First

Park closures are common due to damage. Always verify trail accessibility before you go. Reddit+1

Vehicle Safety Alert

Be aware of smash-and-grab car break-ins in the vicinity. Don't leave valuables visible. Reddit

Consider Alternatives

If Temescal is closed, Los Leones or Topanga State Park offer great hiking. Reddit

Waterfall Potential

After rains, the park can feature beautiful waterfalls. Reddit

Mountain Lion Awareness

Encounters are rare but possible. Be aware of your surroundings on trails. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(353 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Temescal Gateway Park is cherished for its natural beauty, including oak canyons and scenic views, but has recently faced significant closures due to extensive damage. Visitors should be aware of potential safety concerns like car break-ins and wildlife. Checking park status is crucial before visiting.

"Beautiful hike. Some steeps in shade then in the sun. Beautiful views from Skull Rock to the ocean. Bring plenty of water, snacks like raw nuts for energy, hat and safety essentials."

James DeCarli

"We did the Temescal gateway trail. Scenery is beautiful, trail is very challenging, partially due to long and steep climbs, but worse for eroded trail surfaces (big grooves) in the middle, and loose rocks. There were some flatter surfaces which were welcome. Also the trail is very poorly marked and we missed our turn and went much farther than planned. Most people didn’t know where they were due to poor signage. Signage is easy to fix, trail surface not likely to get better."

Dennis Pohle

"Very nice hiking location with great views of LA and the Santa Monica beach. Vegetation was normal SoCal bushes, not particularly exciting vegetation on the hike. There are also lots of conglomerate boulders on the hike, great for geology! We had to wade through a river and walked through a lot of mud in January"

Dennis Gavrilenko

What People Like

Beautiful oak canyons
Scenic views
Serene atmosphere

What People Dislike

Frequent closures
Trail damage
Car break-in risks

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Temescal Gateway Park is located at 15601 Sunset Blvd, Pacific Palisades, CA. Access can be tricky as the park has experienced closures. It's crucial to check current park status before heading out. InstagramReddit

Parking availability can be inconsistent due to park status and past incidents. Some Reddit users have reported the parking lot being inaccessible or containing hazardous waste. Reddit+1

While Sunset Boulevard is open, access to the park itself has been restricted at times. Guards have reportedly turned away visitors. Reddit

Information on public transport directly to the park is limited. It's advisable to check local LA Metro routes for buses that may run near the Pacific Palisades area and then consider ride-sharing or walking. TikTok

Yes, if Temescal Gateway Park is closed, consider Los Leones Trailhead or Topanga State Park, which offer excellent hiking opportunities in the Santa Monica Mountains. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Typically, state and regional parks like Temescal Gateway Park do not have an entrance fee for general access, though parking fees might apply if available. However, current access is subject to park status. Reddit

Official opening hours are usually from dawn to dusk. However, the park has been subject to closures due to damage, so it's essential to verify current operating status before visiting. Reddit

For general park entry, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you plan to use event facilities, reservations would likely be necessary. Always check the park's official website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Recent reports indicate that Temescal Gateway Park has been closed due to extensive damage from rains and fires. It's crucial to check official park advisories for the latest updates on reopening. Reddit+2

If Temescal Gateway Park is closed, consider exploring nearby hiking trails such as Los Leones Trailhead, Rustic Canyon Trail, or trails within Topanga State Park. Reddit+1

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

Historically, trails like the Temescal Canyon Trail (a 2.6-mile loop) were popular. The park features oak and sycamore canyons. However, trail conditions are subject to change due to damage. InstagramReddit

According to past information, dogs are not allowed on the trails at Temescal Canyon Park. Always check current park regulations for the most accurate information. Instagram

You can expect to see lush oak and sycamore canyons, rolling hills, and potentially ocean views from higher elevations. The park is known for its natural beauty. TikTok

While the park offers natural beauty, its suitability for families may depend on current trail conditions and accessibility. Past information suggests it's a moderate hike. Instagram

After significant rainfall, Temescal Gateway Park can feature beautiful waterfalls, making it a particularly scenic spot during certain times of the year. Reddit

🎫 🚗 Safety & Security

While the park itself offers natural beauty, there have been reports of smash-and-grab incidents targeting cars parked nearby on Sunset Boulevard. Be vigilant about vehicle security. Reddit

To minimize risk, avoid leaving any valuables visible in your car. Some visitors opt for ride-sharing services or carpooling to reduce the number of vehicles. Reddit

Yes, mountain lions have been sighted in the Temescal Ridge area. While encounters are rare, it's important to be aware of wildlife and maintain a safe distance. Reddit

When hiking, stay aware of your surroundings, make noise to alert animals of your presence, and never approach or feed wildlife. Keep pets leashed. Reddit

Recent reports indicate extensive damage, particularly after rains, leading to trail closures. The parking lot has also been described as containing hazardous waste. Reddit+2

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Temescal Gateway Park offers natural beauty, its current accessibility and trail conditions may impact family visits. Historically, the Temescal Canyon Trail was a popular moderate loop, but recent damage has led to closures. InstagramReddit If the park is open, consider shorter, well-maintained sections. Always check for current trail status and any age restrictions or safety advisories. If the park is closed, nearby parks like Franklin Canyon Park offer more consistently accessible and family-friendly options. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For avid hikers, Temescal Gateway Park has been a beloved spot for its canyons and views. However, the ongoing trail damage and closures are a significant factor. Reddit+2 It's essential to stay updated on park status and be prepared with alternative hiking locations like Los Leones or Topanga State Park. Reddit Be aware of potential wildlife, including mountain lions, and practice safe hiking habits. Reddit

🚗 Day-Trippers and Sightseers

Day-trippers should be aware of the potential for park closures and the need to verify accessibility before arriving. Reddit+1 If the park is closed, consider exploring the scenic drive along Sunset Boulevard and visiting nearby attractions in Pacific Palisades or Beverly Hills. TikTok Also, be mindful of vehicle security due to reported smash-and-grab incidents in the area. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Park Closures and Damage

Temescal Gateway Park has faced significant challenges, including damage from fires and heavy rains. This has led to prolonged closures, impacting its accessibility for visitors. Recent reports from Reddit users indicate that the park may not be open for quite some time as it undergoes recovery and repair. Reddit+2 The parking lot has also been described as containing hazardous waste, further complicating access. Reddit+1

It's crucial for anyone planning a visit to prioritize checking official park advisories before making the trip. Relying on outdated information can lead to disappointment and wasted travel time. The community often shares updates on Reddit, but official sources should always be your primary reference for the most accurate status. Reddit+1

When the park is inaccessible, exploring alternative hiking destinations becomes essential. Nearby options like Los Leones Trailhead, Rustic Canyon Trail, or trails within Topanga State Park offer excellent opportunities to experience the natural beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains. Reddit+1

Safety and Security Considerations

Visitors to the Temescal Gateway Park area should be aware of potential safety and security concerns. There have been multiple reports of smash-and-grab incidents targeting vehicles parked along Sunset Boulevard near the park entrance. Reddit These incidents can occur even during daylight hours, so it's vital to take precautions.

To mitigate the risk of car break-ins, it's recommended to avoid leaving any valuables visible in your vehicle. Some visitors suggest using ride-sharing services or carpooling to reduce the number of cars parked in the vicinity. Reddit The presence of such incidents can unfortunately detract from the enjoyment of the natural surroundings, making vigilance a key part of the visit.

Additionally, as with many natural areas in Southern California, there's a possibility of mountain lion encounters. While rare, these encounters can be unsettling. Reddit Hikers should stay aware of their surroundings, make noise to alert wildlife, and never approach or feed animals. Keeping pets leashed is also a crucial safety measure. Reddit

Exploring the Natural Beauty

When accessible, Temescal Gateway Park offers a beautiful natural escape with its oak and sycamore canyons. The park's trails wind through these lush environments, providing a serene backdrop for hiking and exploration. TikTok Visitors can expect to find a diverse landscape that showcases the natural flora of the region.

Beyond the canyons, the park's elevated points often provide scenic views of the surrounding hills and, on clear days, glimpses of the Pacific Ocean. These viewpoints offer a rewarding perspective after a hike and are popular spots for photos. Instagram

Historically, the park has also been known to feature waterfalls after periods of significant rainfall, adding another layer of natural beauty to the experience. Reddit This makes visiting after a good rain a potentially special occasion for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

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