We get it. These are serious times. These are times when you should be aware of your surroundings, be mindful of where you travel, and where you meet. But it doesn’t mean the weekend gets shut down.
Take a friend, or take yourself, and visit the extraordinary nature around us here. There are beautiful mountains and scenic panoramas only minutes from Pasadena City Hall. Fewer people, clear air and a little exercise could make you forget that crowded party or gathering you were invited to.
Here are a few hikes and trails that we really like:
Eaton Canyon Natural Area/ Eaton Canyon Falls
The Eaton Canyon Natural Area is ground zero. In a good way. We’re thinking you might want to do this one on a Friday afternoon, since the point here is to avoid crowds, where possible. Beginning at the Eaton Canyon Nature center trailhead, the curvy trail rises 500 feet, and ends at the Eaton Canyon Falls. It’s just over a three-mile round trip, so leave early and allow yourself time to linger.
FYI, the waterfall part could be a little more cozy with people, so we recommend you choose your time and pace. Take breaks and let the ped traffic go by, or scurry up a bit to keep the hordes behind you.
Sturtevant Falls, Angeles National Forest
Sturtevant Falls is just one of many falls within the Angeles National Forest, which covers over 650,000 acres to the north of Pasadena.
Elevations in the forest range from 1,200 to 10,064 feet, covered with dense chaparral which changes to pine and fir-covered hillsides in the higher elevations.
Another 36,000 acres within the Angeles Forest are designated as the San Gabriel Wilderness Area—set aside to preserve their wilderness character. This is serious and wild terrain, ranging in elevation from 1,600 to 8,200 feet.
To reach the Sturtevant Falls, you’ll park at the Chantry Flat lot, and head off up and through the Gabrielino Trail. Big Santa Anita Canyon will be your first major stop, followed by Robert’s Camp, which takes you towards Sturtevant Falls.
As a series of stream crossings begin to dot your the 50-foot Sturtevant Falls, will come in to view. The impressive falls tumble into a circular pool surrounded by giant rocks.
It’s a nearly 4-mile round-trip hike, with a fairly steep trek back to the parking lot. Keep that in mind, along with plenty of water.
Lower Arroyo Seco Trail
The Lower Arroyo Seco Trail, beginning just to the south of the Rose Bowl, is a 3-mile moderately trafficked loop trail suitable for all skill levels. It’s a rookie-friendly trail for hiking, walking, and trail running.
You can bring your dog, but you need to keep him or her on a leash, and now, as a public service announcement for those of you not listening, you can bring your dog, but you need to keep him or her on a leash. You know who you are.
El Prieto Trail-Pasadena
El Prieto Trail is a 5.8 mile moderately trafficked, trail loop with an elevation gain of 912 feet that offers the chance to see deer and other wildlife on the ground and in the sky.
The trail begins just north of the Hahamongna Watershed area, where North Windsor Road meets Arroyo Seco Road. You can also begin your hike near the San Pascual Stables, close to the Colorado Street Bridge. Once you begin your climb, the El Prieto trail begins just after you cross the Arroyo Seco. It’s a moderately tough trek. The trail is accessible year-round.
Dogs are also able to use this trail. You know the drill.
Huntington Library and Gardens Trail
Not everything is a mountain trial. This is a 2-mile loop trail located in the world-famous Huntington Library in San Marino. Beautiful wild flowers from around the world, are everywhere you look, in one of the world’s most impressive gardens.
There are a number of activity options and the garden is accessible year-round.
Note: This is not a hike, it’s a lovely walk through a beautiful garden. General Admission is $29 on the weekends, which includes full access to all of the Gardens, Galleries, and Special Exhibitions.
Huntington Gardens is at 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA. (626) 405-2100.
Maybe you’d rather not traipse? How about a little one-on-one?
Private Swim Lessons
Pasadena has one of the finest aquatic centers in Southern California, and it can get crowded for just that reason. Here’s a thought: Maybe one-on-one swim lessons?
Sunsations Swim School in Pasadena provides swim instructors at your pool, or a nearby community pool, fitness center, or other facility—no matter where you live in Pasadena.
It’s personalized instruction for babies and kids, and even nervous adults who’ve spent their lives afraid of the water. Even seasoned triathletes can benefit from the personalized instruction.
You can build a personal schedule that fits you. Right after work, early in the morning, after school, or lazy Sunday afternoons. It’s just you and an instructor, and the water. No masks anywhere.
Sunsational Swim School.com. (858) 356-4635
Private Painting Lessons
Okay, now we’re on to something. You might already have been thinking about taking art classes. These times might just offer the perfect opportunity. Classes at the Pasadena Art Studio are small, and students receive more attention and who doesn’t want more attention?
Pasadena Art Studio offers a broad range of lessons for the individual artist. But be forewarned: This is for those interested in pursuing a commitment to their art. An art career might take you more than a weekend.
All of the necessary art supplies and materials will be provided, and they say, “Pupils need only come with a ready to learn attitude and an interest in art.”
The Pasadena Art Studio’s classroom structure is based on the number of students enrolled in a given semester, however, private lessons may or may not be available.
If the desire is there, however, this could be the opportunity.
Pasadena Art Studios is at 1068 N. Allen Avenue, Pasadena, CA (626) 290-0028. www.Pasadenaartclasses.com
