Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Puente Hills Preserve is a 3,870-acre protected natural area located in the eastern portion of Los Angeles County, California, encompassing the northern slope of the Puente Hills. The preserve is characterized by rolling hills, chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodland habitats, providing a refuge for a diverse array of native flora and fauna, including bobcats, coyotes, and numerous bird species. Historically, the area was used by the Tongva people, with evidence of indigenous settlements and trails. Today, Puente Hills Preserve serves as an important green space bridging urban Los Angeles and Orange County, offering over 25 miles of mostly multi-use trails. Popular recreation activities include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. Notable landmarks within the preserve include the large butte known as Eagle Rock, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the Los Angeles Basin. The preserve’s trails vary from easy nature walks to moderate climbs, appealing to a broad range of outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the area plays a critical role in watershed protection and habitat conservation within a heavily urbanized region. Managed by the Puente Hills Habitat Authority, the preserve maintains a focus on environmental education, habitat restoration, and sustaining native ecosystems. Visitors appreciate the relatively quiet, natural setting close to the metropolitan area, making Puente Hills Preserve a key destination for nature immersion and outdoor exercise in Southern California.
