Attractions and Places To See around Altadena - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Altadena are situated at the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, offering a blend of natural landscapes and historical sites. The region provides access to numerous hiking trails and cultural landmarks. While some areas were impacted by the Eaton Fire, recovery efforts are ongoing, and many sites remain accessible or are reopening. Visitors can explore a diverse range of outdoor and cultural experiences.
Best attractions and places to see around Altadena
- The most popular attractions is Mount Lowe Railway Ruins, a historical site that features the remains of a resort complex. This iconic hiking spot in the San Gabriel Mountains offers historical relics and explanatory signs.
- Another must-see spot is Eaton Canyon Waterfall, a 40-foot waterfall in the San Gabriel Mountains. The hike to the falls is moderate with several stream crossings.
- Visitors also love Historic Colorado Street Bridge, a bridge built in 1912. This historic bridge played an important part in the growth of the city and was once part of Route 66.
- Altadena is known for its historical sites, natural areas, and hiking trails. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from mountain views to cultural landmarks.
- The attractions around Altadena are appreciated by the komoot community, with 20 upvotes and 5 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Historic Colorado Street Bridge
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Brand Library & Park
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Eaton Canyon Waterfall
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Mount Lowe Railway Ruins
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The Cub House
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The Club House is a vibrant bike shop offering bike sales and service, apparel, gear, and cacti. What began with a red VW bus and online sales in 2017 transitioned to an old service station turned plant store. A small, fun-loving team runs the shop, sharing their love of cycling. Stop by for events like the annual Bike & Car Show, a lazy Sunday ride, the Wednesday night Basket Ride, or just to grab coffee at their mobile espresso bar.
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Built in 1912 this historic bridge plays an important part in the growth of the city. For a short time in the 1930's and 40s it was part of the iconic "Route 66" that stretched from Santa Monica to Chicago. Aside from a short closure and refurbishment after the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, the bridge has been in operation for well over a century.
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If you come down from Pincrest Dr, cross the bridge and keep right walking a loop to get under the bridge. From here follow the creek by crossing the stream over rocks and trunks around 10 times before you reach the small lake with the waterfall. Have great fun by taking a "shower".
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40 foot water fall in the San Gabriel Mountains. The hike up to the falls is moderate with several stream crossings. It can get busy during peak times, but is definitely work the trek up.
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40 foot water fall in the San Gabriel Mountains. The hike up to the falls is moderate with several stream crossings. It can get busy during peak times, but is definitely work the trek up.
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The iconic Colorado Street Bridge was designed and built in 1912 at a total cost of $191,000 (equivalent to $4,875,259 in 2019). Designed by Kansas City, Missouri, firm Waddell & Harrington, the structure carries Colorado Boulevard (then called "Colorado Street"), the major east-west thoroughfare connecting Pasadena with Eagle Rock and Glendale to the west, and with Monrovia to the east. The Colorado Street Bridge replaced the small Scoville Bridge located near the bottom of the Arroyo Seco. The bridge follows a curved path so that the footings would sit on more solid ground than a straight bridge would have provided. The bridge spans 1,486 feet (453 m) at a maximum height of 150 feet (45 m) and is notable for its distinctive Beaux Arts arches, light standards, and railings. The bridge is on the National Register of Historic Places and has been designated a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers. During the early part of the twentieth century, the Colorado Street Bridge became known locally as "Suicide Bridge" after dozens of people leaped to their deaths. Wikipedia has more details: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colorado_Street_Bridge_(Pasadena,_California)
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One of the best bike shops I’ve ever been to! Check it out, you won’t be disappointed
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Must-see Iconic hiking spot in the lower San Gabriel Mountains, with historical relics and explanatory signs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular hiking trails and natural areas in Altadena?
Altadena, nestled at the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, offers several popular natural areas and hiking trails. You can explore the scenic trails at Eaton Canyon Natural Area and Nature Center, which features seasonal waterfalls like the Eaton Canyon Waterfall. Other notable trails include the Rubio Canyon Trailhead and the Echo Mountain Trail, providing access to the San Gabriel Mountains. For a historical hiking experience, visit the Mount Lowe Railway Ruins, which offers relics and explanatory signs.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Altadena?
Yes, Altadena has several family-friendly options. Eaton Canyon Natural Area and Nature Center is ideal for family-friendly paths and nature exploration. Farnsworth Park provides picnic areas and an amphitheater for outdoor events. Loma Alta Park, which reopened in May 2025 after the Eaton Fire, now includes two 'Dodgers Dreamfields' and expanded services, making it a great spot for families. The Brand Library & Park also offers a beautiful setting for a family outing.
What historical sites can I visit in Altadena?
Altadena is rich in history. You can visit Mount Lowe Railway Ruins, a historical site featuring the remains of a resort complex from the early 1900s. The Historic Colorado Street Bridge, built in 1912, is another significant landmark. The Altadena Historical Society, located in the Altadena Community Center, showcases the city's past and anticipates being fully operational by the end of summer 2025. Mountain View Cemetery, established in 1882, is the final resting place for many local founders and is expected to reopen its mausoleum soon after September 2025.
How has the Eaton Fire impacted attractions in Altadena, and what is the current status of recovery?
The Eaton Fire in January 2025 significantly impacted some areas and establishments in Altadena. However, the community is actively engaged in recovery. Loma Alta Park reopened in May 2025 with new features. The Altadena Community Center, which houses the Historical Society, is working to reopen as a recovery hub. Christmas Tree Lane continued its tradition in December 2025 despite some damage. While some sites like The Bunny Museum and Zane Grey Estate were severely damaged or destroyed, the Bunny Museum owners are planning to rebuild. Mountain View Cemetery's mausoleum is expected to reopen soon after September 2025.
Are there any waterfalls to see in Altadena?
Yes, Altadena is home to the Eaton Canyon Waterfall, a 40-foot waterfall located in the San Gabriel Mountains. The hike to the falls is considered moderate and involves several stream crossings. It's a popular destination, especially during peak times, and is definitely worth the trek.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, can I do near Altadena's attractions?
Altadena offers a variety of outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore routes like the Mueller Tunnel via Loma Alta Trailhead or the Mount Lowe Canyon Loop Trail. There are also several waterfall hikes, including the Eaton Canyon Waterfall loop. If you're interested in cycling, options include the Overlook on Cerro Negro – Brookside Park loop or the Gabrielino Trail (NRT) loop. You can find more details on these and other routes in the hiking guide and cycling guide for Altadena.
Where can I find unique cultural or artistic sites in Altadena?
Altadena has a few unique cultural and artistic spots. Christmas Tree Lane, a historic mile-long stretch of Santa Rosa Avenue, is famous for its thousands of lights on deodar cedars during the holiday season, known as the 'oldest large-scale outdoor Christmas lighting display in the United States.' The Pacific Electric Railway Company Substation No. 8, a National Register of Historic Places site, now houses offices and the Full Circle Thrift Shop. While Zorthian Ranch, known for its eclectic art, was damaged by the Eaton Fire, the community is focused on recovery and rebuilding.
Are there any places to visit that are wheelchair accessible in Altadena?
Yes, Eaton Canyon Natural Area and Nature Center offers accessible outdoor areas. Additionally, The Cub House, a popular bike shop and cafe, is wheelchair accessible and a great spot to visit for coffee or cycling gear.
What do visitors enjoy most about Altadena's attractions?
Visitors particularly enjoy Altadena's blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The scenic trails and seasonal waterfalls at Eaton Canyon are highly appreciated for their natural appeal. The historical relics and explanatory signs at the Mount Lowe Railway Ruins offer a unique glimpse into the past. The Historic Colorado Street Bridge is admired for its architecture and historical importance. The overall appeal lies in the opportunity to explore mountain views, cultural landmarks, and engaging outdoor activities.
Are there any parks in Altadena that offer amenities like picnic areas or event spaces?
Yes, Farnsworth Park is a vast county park that provides a beautiful setting with an amphitheater and picnic areas, making it ideal for outdoor concerts or gatherings. Loma Alta Park, which reopened in May 2025, also offers revamped grounds and expanded services, including new sports fields, suitable for various community activities.
What is the significance of Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena?
Christmas Tree Lane, located on Santa Rosa Avenue, is a historic and cherished tradition in Altadena. It is known as the 'oldest large-scale outdoor Christmas lighting display in the United States.' Every holiday season, thousands of lights adorn its deodar cedars, creating a magical experience that continued even after the Eaton Fire in December 2025, despite some damage to surrounding areas.
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