LAist: Welcome to Los Angeles' National Park

novas

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 20:33:47 -0800

one of my favorite places to hike is in solstice canyon in that area ... however, after last years' fires, the place is closed off for now. :( before you take off for a nice hike, make sure to check the website for park/trail area closures while the ecosystem is in recovery from the fires.

ashleymcunningham

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 22:57:53 -0800

fabulous article... thanks Zach for reminding us about this great resource of open space. cheers, Ash

douglaswelch

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 15:20:22 -0800

Ever since we arrived here as new marrieds in 1986, we have loved the wide ranging park options around LA. As I moved into blogging and podcasting, I have taken every opportunity to highlight the activities available around the area from a wide variety of organizations. I recently shot a video at Franklin Canyon Ranch/WODOC just north of Beverly Hills which is part of the recreation area now managed by the Conservancy. One of my biggest complaints about our various parks is the growth of access fees whether in the form of parking fees, Adventure Passes or Day Use Fees. I think it is so important to allow everyone free access to our nearby parks so that they can become truly acquainted with the amazing natural areas. Douglas

Zach Behrens

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 14:55:23 -0800

Thanks gonzoworm, however, upon speaking to NPS staff, I confirmed the use of the word park vs. rec area was okay to do so. But that's a good link i've never seen before. For sure, the discussion will continue about the nomenclature and other issues surrounding the NPS unit.

gonzoworm

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 14:33:15 -0800

Kudos, Zach, for publicizing this hidden-in-plain-sight asset, but the headline is slightly misleading, as the NPS does actually differentiate between so-called National Parks and National Recreation Areas and there are varying use regulations and levels of amenities available at each type(www.nps.gov/legacy/nomenclature.html). This is a fine National RECREATION area. A bit further east, Mojave National Preserve and Joshua Tree NP are both co-equal NPS units, but only one is a National Park.