🐎 Saddle Up: Exploring La Canada Horse Trails
Nestled against the San Gabriel foothills, La Canada is a horse-friendly paradise, though not quite the one it used to be. When I first moved here, it was common to see neighbors riding their horses right down the street. Back then, many homes sat on large lots with their own barns and small arenas. But over the years, many of those original ranch properties have been torn down and replaced with larger homes. Along with the homes went the barns, corrals, and equestrian facilities that made this community a true haven for riders. As a result, sightings of horses on city streets have become increasingly rare.
Still, the spirit of La Canada’s horse-loving roots lives on in the trail system. If you know where to look, there are still beautiful places to ride. The community boasts over twenty miles of trails maintained by a local volunteer council. You’ve got scenic routes perfect for everything from casual loops to full-day treks.
Start smart with the beloved Flint Canyon Trail—a 2.2‑mile, shady slice of serenity winding past oak groves and estates. Add a section of Owl Trail to dip into Cherry Canyon’s lush landscape, then climb up Cerro Negro if you’re feeling adventurous. Access: Hahamongna Watershed Park, Hampstead Road, or Woodleigh Lane.
Want more miles? Gould Canyon Trail stretches over 5 miles through the foothills, while Horse Lane serves as a handy connector. For a mix of terrain and challenge, tack on Open Space or Descanso Trails, which wind you past rugged switchbacks and granite earth. Access: Hahamongna Watershed Park in Pasadena and various streets like Foothill Boulevard and Viro Road.
Before exploring La Canada horse trails, pack water, respect other users, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of canyon oaks, creek shadows, and open skies. Whether you’re easing into a morning ride or pressing for the hills, La Canada’s equestrian trails won’t disappoint.
