Hansen Dam Trails in the Northeast Valley

Hansen Dam is a big flat park at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains, and it is one of the easiest places in the Valley to log a few miles. The dam itself holds back floodwater, but most days the only water you see is the lake at the south end.

Where: Hansen Dam Recreation Area, Foothill Boulevard, Lake View Terrace Distance: about 3 to 5 miles, depending on the loop Effort: easy, with almost no elevation change

The paths

Wide dirt and paved trails wrap the basin. Runners use them early, and cyclists share the longer stretches. Horse riders come through too, so keep to the right and listen for hooves. The loop around the lake is short enough for a stroller and long enough to feel like a walk.

There is a swim lagoon, picnic areas and a few shaded lawns, which makes it a decent pick for a family outing. Bring your own shade anyway. The basin is open and gets hot from late morning on.

Wildlife and views

Birders come for the waterfowl on the lake, and the dry scrub around the edges draws hawks. The San Gabriel Mountains fill the north horizon. After a rain they have snow on the top, and the contrast with the flat basin is the best view in the park.

Getting there

Parking is off Foothill Boulevard, and the lots are large. The park is not on a rail line, so most visitors drive. Weekend mornings are quiet, and holiday afternoons are not.

Before you go

Check before you go: lake and swim areas, gates and trail closures change with the season and with flood control work, so look at the current notices first. For a map and route notes, see the Hansen Dam loop on AllTrails.

More outdoor ideas are on the Outdoor events page.