Attractions and Places To See around La Crescenta-Montrose - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around La Crescenta-Montrose include a mix of natural beauty and historical sites. This community in Los Angeles County, California, is known for its serene suburban atmosphere and proximity to the Angeles National Forest. Visitors can explore expansive parks, historical landmarks, and cultural points of interest. The area offers diverse experiences, from wilderness trails to local markets.
Best attractions and places to see around La Crescenta-Montrose
- The most popular attractions is Mount Lowe Railway Ruins…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Historic Colorado Street Bridge
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Railway yard with steam trains
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Brand Library & Park
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Mount Lowe Railway Ruins
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North Atwater Bridge (La Kretz Crossing)
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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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North Atwater Bridge, also known as La Kretz Bridge or La Kretz Crossing, is a 325-foot-long cable-stayed pedestrian bridge stretching over the Los Angeles River. It connects Griffith Park to Atwater Village, just south of North Atwater Park. Originally designed to provide horseback riders from Atwater Village safe access to Griffith Park’s extensive riding trails, the bridge eliminates the need to cross Los Feliz Boulevard or the often slippery concrete-bottomed L.A. River.
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Located in the northwest corner of Griffith Park is the Travel Town Museum and railway park covering the history of railroad transportation in the western United States. The railroad museum sections contains 43 full-scale railroad engines, cars and other rolling stock. There is also a quaint miniature train available that travels over one mile of track. It traverses a cute bridge, goes through a forest and an old Western Town.
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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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Must-see Iconic hiking spot in the lower San Gabriel Mountains, with historical relics and explanatory signs.
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What is now Brand Library was built in 1904 as Leslie C. Brand's home, Miradero, "a high place overlooking a wide view." Designed by Brand's brother-in-law, architect Nathaniel Dryden, it was inspired by the East Indian Pavilion built for the 1893 Columbian World Exposition held in Chicago. On April 10, 1925, Mr. Brand died, leaving his estate to the City of Glendale upon the death of his wife, provided it be turned into a public library and park. Mrs. Brand died in 1945. By 1956, the mansion had been converted into a 5,000 sq. ft. library. In 1969 an addition, a modernized version of the original Saracenic design, added 21,000 sq. ft. It includes an art gallery, a recital hall, a sculpture court, and Brand Park Studios. This addition was built as "the cultural showplace of Glendale," a role it plays to this day. Today, a trail leads hikers to the Brand Family Cemetery marked by a pyramid where the family is buried along with their dogs, at Mr. Brand's request. https://www.brandlibrary.org
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The summit of Echo Mountain has the ruins of what was a resort complex for the Mount Lowe Railway circa 1900. A cable car took visitors up from Pasadena below to this summit where a grand hotel and recreation facilities existed. The ultimate plan was for the Mount Lowe Railway to proceed to San Gabriel Mountain but in the early 1900's a fire destroyed the facility.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions and outdoor spaces can I explore in La Crescenta-Montrose?
La Crescenta-Montrose offers several natural attractions. You can explore the expansive Deukmejian Wilderness Park, which features hiking trails and panoramic views, or visit the Rosemont Preserve for a protected wilderness experience. Other options include Cherry Canyon Park with its trails for hiking and mountain biking, and the nearby Angeles National Forest, providing access to extensive outdoor activities like the Grizzly Flat Trail.
Are there historical sites or cultural points of interest in the area?
Yes, the region has several historical and cultural sites. A notable historical hiking spot is the Mount Lowe Railway Ruins, which features relics from a former resort complex. You can also visit the Railway yard with steam trains, a museum showcasing railroad transportation history. The Brand Library & Art Center, though in nearby Glendale, is a significant landmark with an art gallery and recital hall, originally built in 1904. For local history, the Historical Society of Crescenta Valley offers educational programs.
What family-friendly activities are available in La Crescenta-Montrose?
Families can enjoy Crescenta Valley Community Regional Park and Two Strike Park, both offering green spaces and children's play areas. The Railway yard with steam trains features a quaint miniature train ride. The La Crescenta Library has a significant children's section with story times and activities. For a unique experience, The T Room in Montrose Shopping Park offers special Prince & Princess Teas.
Where can I find good hiking trails near La Crescenta-Montrose?
The area is excellent for hiking. You can find trails in Deukmejian Wilderness Park, Cherry Canyon Park, and the Angeles National Forest. For specific routes, consider the Cherry Canyon Park and Lookout Tower trail or the Crescenta Valley County Park trail. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking around La Crescenta-Montrose guide.
Are there options for mountain biking or cycling?
Yes, the Verdugo Mountains offer fantastic opportunities for mountain biking and gravel riding. Cherry Canyon Park also has fire roads suitable for mountain biking. For road cycling, you can explore routes like the Verdugo Peak – La Tuna Canyon Road loop. Discover more cycling routes in the Cycling around La Crescenta-Montrose guide.
What are some viewpoints offering scenic panoramas of the area?
For stunning views, head to Deukmejian Wilderness Park, which offers panoramic vistas of the Crescenta Valley and Los Angeles basin. Hiking to Verdugo Peak in the Verdugo Mountains also provides exceptional panoramic views. Additionally, Cerro Negro is an overlook near a tower that offers great views of Glendale, Los Angeles, and the Verdugo Mountains.
Where can I go for shopping and dining in La Crescenta-Montrose?
The Montrose Shopping Park is a vibrant hub for shopping and dining. It hosts the Montrose Harvest Market every Sunday, where you can find fresh produce and handcrafted items from local artisans and farmers. You'll find various shops and restaurants within this charming area.
Is there a place to learn about local history and community events?
The Historical Society of Crescenta Valley is dedicated to investigating and celebrating the region's history, offering educational programs and tours. The La Crescenta Women's Club, established in 1911, has long served as a social center for the valley, hosting numerous charitable and social events.
What is the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/4288027" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Historic Colorado Street Bridge</a> and why is it significant?
The Historic Colorado Street Bridge, built in 1912, played an important role in the growth of the city. For a period, it was part of the iconic "Route 66" and is notable for its distinctive Beaux Arts arches. It's a significant architectural and historical landmark in the region.
Are there any unique or 'hidden gem' outdoor spots in La Crescenta-Montrose?
Locals often refer to Crescenta Valley Community Regional Park as a 'hidden jewel' due to its diverse recreational opportunities and natural beauty. For a historical outdoor experience, the Mount Lowe Railway Ruins offer a unique blend of hiking and historical exploration in the lower San Gabriel Mountains.
Can I access the Angeles National Forest easily from La Crescenta-Montrose?
Yes, the Angeles National Forest is located at the northern border of La Crescenta-Montrose, providing convenient access to its extensive outdoor activities. You can find trails like the Grizzly Flat Trail, which offers scenic canyon views and a peaceful pine grove, directly from the community.
What is the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/3777062" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brand Library & Park</a>?
The Brand Library & Park, originally built in 1904 as Leslie C. Brand's home, is now a public library with an art gallery, a recital hall, and a sculpture court. It's known as the 'cultural showplace of Glendale' and features unique Saracenic design inspired by the 1893 Columbian World Exposition.
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