January 2026

Exploring the Hidden Trails Together: The Pasadena Village Hiking Group

Pasadena Village is home to many veteran hikers who know that some of Southern California’s greatest rewards lie just beyond the familiar paths. From breathtaking vistas to hidden streams tucked deep in local canyons, the Pasadena Village Hiking Group offers members the chance to experience nature up close—often in places they never knew existed.

Village hikers like to get a little off the beaten path. Rather than sticking solely to popular routes, the group often seeks out obsolete or lesser-known trails, discovering landscapes rich with history and wildlife. Along the way, hikers have encountered deer, coyotes, hawks, and even bears, reminders that wild spaces still thrive alongside our urban environment.

Under the leadership of Jane Hufnagel, the group currently hikes throughout the greater Pasadena area. “Recent hikes have been in Cherry Canyon above Descanso Gardens, El Prieto Canyon, Sturtevant Falls, Debs Park, and the Gabrielino Trail in the upper Arroyo Seco,” Jane says. Each location offers its own unique terrain, scenery, and sense of discovery.

Most hikes range from three to five miles, and routes are generally considered moderate. There are usually hills to climb—often a defining feature of the group’s outings—but participants say the challenge is manageable and rewarding. Good footwear, water, snacks, and hiking poles are encouraged, though specialized hiking boots are not required. Comfortable sneakers are usually just fine.

The Hiking Group meets on the second Friday of every month, weather permitting. “Hike descriptions are posted on the event calendar the week before the hike, and any Villager can sign up,” Jane explains. Villagers who would like to receive monthly email notifications can contact Jane directly to be added to the list. Find Jane’s information in the Member Directory. Carpooling is available from the Village Office, and group size typically ranges from five to twelve hikers.

Billy Clifton, a Pasadena resident since 1998, says joining Pasadena Village opened up a whole new world of exploration for him. “I was a hiker, but I didn’t explore the hills until I joined the Village,” he says. One particularly memorable hike took him into Santa Anita Canyon, a winding mile-long descent into the San Gabriel Mountains.

“Long ago, cottages or cabins had been built there—isolated in the mountains,” Billy recalls. “There were no roads, no running water, no electricity. Donkeys were used to bring in supplies, probably for hunters. Most of the cabins haven’t been inhabited for years, so they’re rustic and beautiful.”

For Billy, hiking is both exciting and affirming. “I’m proud I can still do it,” he says. “There’s lots of climbing involved, but Jane is outstanding. She scouts locations and schedules our hikes so we have a new place to go every time.”

What keeps Billy coming back, however, is the social connection. “Hikes are real social,” he says. “We share stories, insights, and memories. You wind up learning a lot about yourself and others just because you’re among friends. I’ll keep doing it as long as I can.”

Sue Kujawa, past President of the Board and former Executive Director of Pasadena Village, has explored the hills, canyons, and arroyos of the San Gabriel Mountains for many years. Hiking remains a meaningful and grounding part of her life.

“It seems like I’ve hiked my whole life,” Sue says, “but I love hiking with this group. As you get older, you might think your hiking days are done—but not so quick.”

Sue describes the hikes as “a little challenging, but not too difficult,” noting that they offer great exercise along with companionship. “There’s almost always climbing, so you have to be ready for that,” she says. “But going with other people makes it fun. You talk, you share stories and memories, and you get to know each other better.”

Over time, the group has discovered surprisingly remote and isolated parts of the Pasadena area. “The scenery is outstanding,” Sue says. “This is a great year for wildflowers, so we’ll probably be paying close attention to them in the coming months. We cross streams, spot wildlife, and find these out-of-the-way environments that don’t feel urban at all.”

For Sue, hiking also carries a deeper emotional connection. “Over the years with the Village, I’ve hiked with so many wonderful people who are now gone,” she reflects. “I remember them as I hike today.”

The Pasadena Village Hiking Group is about more than miles and elevation gain. It’s about friendship, shared discovery, resilience, and the joy of continuing to explore—together—one trail at a time.