Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area

Though located in the middle of an industrial section, city sounds fade away while at this 836-acre recreational area that has a mountainous backdrop. The nature center trail, at the northern end of the park, has a rock-lined, three-quarter-mile looping trail that is paved, level and a delight to walk. Desert is the predominant theme here, so you'll observe an abundance of cacti and other plant life, and animals such as jackrabbits, lizards, roadrunners and hummingbirds.

The 70-acre lake near the entrance offers a small beach and a swimming area with lifeguards that is open in the summer. You can fish and go boating on the lake. The lake is stocked with bass, trout and catfish. A tackle and bait shop is located in the park. Electric boats, rowboats and paddleboats are available for rent; no gasoline-powered boats are allowed. Other attractions in the park include a playground, picnic facilities under shade trees and unpaved walking trails. Campsites are available for youth groups. Ready for a bike ride? Choose your distance and go north to San Gabriel Canyon or south to Long Beach on various trails that go through this park. -- Susan Peterson

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