Overview
Puente Hills Preserve is a network of open-space lands stretching across the Puente Hills in Los Angeles and Orange counties. Managed largely by the Puente Hills Habitat Authority, the preserve protects one of the largest remaining natural open spaces in the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area — a remarkable fact given how densely developed the surrounding communities are.
The preserve encompasses several distinct units, including Schabarum Regional Park-adjacent trails, Sycamore Canyon, and the Hacienda Hills area. Together they offer visitors a genuine sense of wildland within easy reach of millions of residents. Native coastal sage scrub, chaparral, oak woodland, and riparian corridors define the landscape.
This is not a polished resort destination. There are no hotels within the preserve itself, no restaurants, and facilities are minimal. What the preserve offers is practical, accessible outdoor recreation — hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian use — in a biologically significant habitat that shelters mule deer, coyotes, bobcats, and a broad range of bird species.
Before You Go
Permits and Access
Most trails in Puente Hills Preserve are free to access, though some entry points connect through county or regional parks that may charge a parking fee. Verify current fee information with the Puente Hills Habitat Authority or Los Angeles County Parks before your visit, as these can change.
What to Bring
- Water: There are no water fountains on most trails. Carry at least 1–2 liters per person.
- Sun protection: Much of the terrain is exposed chaparral; sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are strongly recommended.
- Trail map: Download or print a map in advance. Cell signal is inconsistent in canyon areas.
- Sturdy footwear: Trails range from packed dirt to rocky scrambles. Avoid sandals.
Seasonal Considerations
Summer temperatures in the Puente Hills regularly exceed 90°F (32°C). If visiting June through September, plan to start before 8 a.m. Fire danger is also elevated in late summer and fall; check with local authorities for any trail closures. Poison oak is present in shaded canyon corridors — learn to identify it before you go.
Getting There
By Car
The preserve is most conveniently reached by car. Multiple trailheads are scattered across the hills, with notable access points near the city of Hacienda Heights, Rowland Heights, and the Schabarum Regional Park entrance off Colima Road in Rowland Heights. GPS coordinates for specific trailheads are worth confirming in advance, as signage can be sparse.
By Public Transit
Los Angeles County's Metro bus network serves nearby communities including Hacienda Heights and Rowland Heights. However, the walk from bus stops to most trailheads is typically significant and may not be practical for all visitors. Check Metro's trip planner (metro.net) for current route information.
Nearest Major Airport
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the primary international gateway, roughly 25–35 miles west depending on the trailhead. Ontario International Airport (ONT) is generally closer and may be convenient for travelers coming from the east. Car rental is the most practical option for reaching the preserve from either airport.
Getting Around
Within the preserve, travel is on foot, by mountain bike, or on horseback depending on the trail designation. Many trails are multi-use, but some segments are designated hiking-only or equestrian; check trail signage and the Puente Hills Habitat Authority's published trail maps before choosing a route.
Trails connect across multiple units of the preserve, allowing for longer loops, but junctions can be confusing without a reliable map. A downloaded offline map (apps such as AllTrails or Gaia GPS have community-contributed coverage of this area) is a practical aid. Do not rely solely on in-app navigation — verify routes against official preserve maps.
Things to See & Do
Hiking
The preserve offers trails ranging from relatively flat canyon walks to steeper ridge routes with panoramic views of the San Gabriel Valley, the downtown Los Angeles skyline on clear days, and the Santa Ana Mountains to the southeast. Sycamore Canyon and the trails around Hacienda Hills are among the more popular routes. Distances and elevation gains vary considerably; research specific trails before committing.
Mountain Biking
Puente Hills is a well-regarded mountain biking destination in the LA area. Several trails are open to bikes and feature varied terrain. The local mountain biking community maintains an active presence and has contributed significantly to trail upkeep. Verify which specific trails permit bikes, as not all do.
Wildlife and Birding
The preserve supports a notable variety of wildlife given its urban setting. Birdwatchers will find coastal sage scrub species including California gnatcatcher (listed as threatened — treat sightings as a privilege and maintain distance), Bewick's wren, and various raptors. Mammals including mule deer and coyotes are regularly observed, particularly in the early morning and evening hours.
Nature Education
The Puente Hills Habitat Authority periodically organizes guided nature walks and educational programs. Check their official website for a current events calendar, as schedules vary by season and are subject to change.
Food & Drink
There are no food or beverage vendors within the preserve itself. Pack your own food and water for any trail visit.
The surrounding communities of Hacienda Heights, Rowland Heights, and Industry offer a broad range of dining options reflecting the area's substantial Asian-American population — particularly Chinese, Taiwanese, Vietnamese, and Korean restaurants. Rowland Heights in particular has a dense concentration of Asian cuisine along Colima Road and Nogales Street. These communities are practical choices for a meal before or after your visit to the preserve.
Practical Information
Facilities
Restroom facilities exist at some trailhead parking areas, including Schabarum Regional Park, but are minimal or absent at smaller access points. Verify what is available at your intended entry point before arriving.
Dogs
Dogs are permitted on many trails within the preserve but must be kept on leash. This rule is enforced to protect native wildlife. Confirm leash requirements for your specific trail, as rules can vary by unit.
Leave No Trace
The preserve is managed as a wildlife habitat first. Pack out all trash, stay on marked trails, and do not disturb plants or animals. Collecting plants, rocks, or wildlife is prohibited.
Emergency Services
In an emergency, call 911. Cell coverage can be limited in canyon areas. Inform someone of your planned route and expected return time before heading out. The preserve does not have on-site ranger patrols at all times.
Safety
Heat and Sun
Heat-related illness is a genuine risk during summer months. Start early, carry ample water, and turn back if you feel symptoms of heat exhaustion.
Wildlife
Coyotes and occasionally mountain lions are present in the preserve. Keep dogs on leash, do not leave food unattended, and follow California Department of Fish and Wildlife guidance if you encounter a mountain lion. Rattlesnakes are also present — watch where you step and where you place your hands, particularly on rocky terrain.
Fire
Wildfires are a recurring risk in Southern California's chaparral landscape. Check Los Angeles County Fire Department notices and the preserve's official communications for any closures before visiting, especially August through November.
