Temescal Gateway Park451

This city park, nestled in the Pacific Palisades' Temescal Canyon, is criss-crossed by miles of hiking trails, offering sweeping vistas of the ocean and the city, and providing access to the Backbone Trail, Will Rogers State Historic Park, and Topanga State Park.

The park covers 141 acres; you'll find plenty of quiet spots for picnics, and several good kids' trails, including one to the Temescal Canyon Falls, a fairly easy walk of about 2-and-1/2 miles round trip from the parking lot.

Regulations: Dogs must be leashed at all times.

Family Campfire Programs are held one evening per month, with Naturalists leading educational activities followed by stories, songs, and marshmallows. Visitors park in the front parking lot; call the park for specific dates and times.

The Mountains Restoration Conservancy Authority offers a variety of birthday party options in the park, with highlights that include campfires, hikes, nature crafts, and other naturalist-led programs. Parties start at $250.