Forrestal Ecological Reserve

Okay okay so the address provided in Unilocal is to the actual street. Unfortunately there’s no sign. And you have to park in the street. The reason I knew where to start the trail is because I asked a group of people for directions… so you have two options… right trail is the hardest one (it’s more challenging… inclining from the beginning to the end) the left trail is easier. Both trails provide an amazing view. Like other Unilocalers said before there’s no shade at all. Also, not that many rocks either. To all my girlfriends, I would not recommend you to go alone. It could be dangerous since you won’t see that many people here. It gets very isolated. It’s a short but challenging trail. Enjoy the view!

This place is awesome it’s on the coast of Palos Verdes lots of hikes you can do even down to the ocean when they have giant sea caves very easy hike, look at my photos on Unilocal and you can see

Easy to Moderate hike with several small trails that can range from 1 – 4 miles. Not much shade but plenty of local shrubbery and flowers.

I always knew that there were other trails around this area as I frequent the Burma Trail via El Cerro Park. These trails seem to be hidden as I didn’t really know where to go at first. From the parking lot there is a sign that says something about drainage and trails being «unstable» and to «proceed at your own risk.» There are many options to take but I specially liked that certain sections have shrubs that create overhead shade. I spent a good 2 hours up there with my brothers.
Definitely take a day pack with plenty of water!

I really enjoyed this trail! Quiet, varied inclines, clearly marked trails. Nice Scenery!
Lots of parking is available and its not too far from trump trails but offers a different experience.

Quiet, no people, steep hills, trails that give you a good burn, ample parking.

I love this trail! I parked on Forrestal Dr and took the trailhead right across from the community center. The Pirate trail on the right is pretty steep and makes for a good cardio workout. Great views of the ocean and Catalina island once you get to the Mariposa view point. It’s a nice place for a short and casual hike.

This hike is great! The trail head is on Forrestal Drive right across from the Ladera Linda Community Center. Right after hitting the trail, there are two options — right or left. The right side is the steep side and is sure to give your bum some toning! Go with the right side, you can do it! Plus when you reach the top you arrive at the most beautiful house, gardens & vista! My 2 friends and I hiked so high, we were in the clouds. The parking is ample. You can park on the road for free or in the Ladera Linda Community Center, which is also free! Have fun, get a workout and most of all take in the beauty that is Rancho Palos Verdes!

The trails within this reserve wind and escalate quickly. It is a steep hike, at virtually any point. The elevation, however, provides wonderful views of Catalina Island, the shores along the Portuguese Bend, and ready access to adjacent trails. If you have a chance, explore Fossil Rock (on the southern side of the trailhead) for ancient fish and shellfish fossils, and fossilized shark’s teeth.

Can’t believe no one wrote a review on the Forrestal Ecological Reserve, one of my favorite places to hike in Palos Verdes. Just drive to the very end of Forrestal Drive (at the end of the soccer fields) and choose a trailhead into the hills. Particularly spectacular in springtime, but a fantastic and refreshing workout (for the soul as well as the body) any time of the year, with great views of the ocean and the Palos Verdes coastline if you make it to the higher elevations — plus, hardly any people (maybe that’s why there’s no reviews… wait a minute, am I about to spoil the serenity of this place? Good thing I didn’t post any photos).