Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Puente Hills Habitat Preservation is a protected natural area located in eastern Los Angeles County, California. It encompasses nearly 3,800 acres of open space spread across rolling hills, chaparral, coastal sage scrub, riparian zones, and oak woodlands. This area serves as one of the largest urban habitat preserves in the United States, conserving vital wildlife corridors that connect the Santa Ana Mountains, San Gabriel Mountains, and coastal ecosystems. Established to protect native species and prevent habitat fragmentation, the preserve is home to a variety of wildlife including coyotes, bobcats, mule deer, and over 100 bird species, including several that are sensitive or threatened. The reserve includes several interlinked parks and preserves managed through a collaborative effort involving state, county, and local agencies.
Visitors to Puente Hills Habitat Preservation can enjoy over 26 miles of well-maintained hiking and equestrian trails that wind through diverse landscapes, providing scenic vistas of the Los Angeles Basin. Popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and nature photography. The area also supports environmental education programs and guided walks to raise public awareness of Southern California’s native ecosystems. Key features include the Puente Hills Landfill Native Habitat Preservation Authority’s stewardship, the nearby Whittier Hills, and the connectivity to Carbon Canyon Regional Park. Its proximity to suburban areas makes it a valuable green space for recreation and conservation within an urban setting.
