This is the fourth of five walks that cover the length of the Arroyo Seco, from Hahamonga Watershed Park to the confluence with the L.A. River and a bit beyond into Chinatown.  Each walk segment is point-to-point, ranges from approximately 3 to 4.4 miles in length and includes riding Metrorail and/or Pasadena Transit.  

This walk takes us from the Southwest Museum Station to the Heritage Square Station by way of Montecito Heights, Debs Park and Flat Top Park.  It covers approximately 4.5 miles with lots of uphill and downhill and is the most strenuous of the five walks.  Montecito Heights Open Space (the locals call it Flat Top) is the highlight of the walk. Flat Top covers 37 acres of undeveloped hillside, offering views from Catalina Island to the San Gabriel Mountains.

We’ll meet at the Southwest Museum Metrorail Station at 7:00AM.  Approximately 85% of the hike is on paved sidewalks and roads, the rest is unpaved fire roads and walking trails.  We will be walking uphill with a handful of short, steep stretches interspersed with more gradual elevation gains.  As we descend Flat Top, some of the paved downhill walking is steep; one block in particular on Minnesota Street is uncomfortably steep.  Bring your hiking poles and wear appropriate shoes with good support, grip and traction.

Bring water and a snack. We’ll stop midway for a restroom and refreshment break in Debs Park.  The walk ends at the Heritage Square Metrorail Station, where we’ll take the train or drive back to Pasadena.

IMPORTANT

You must have a loaded Tap Card for the train fare.

If you'd prefer to drive, there's the option to drive and park in the Heritage Square metro station lot, which is free, and take the train one stop north to the Southwest Museum station start location. We'll end the hike at the Heritage Square station, so it will be easy to hop in your car and head back to Pasadena.

If you prefer to take the train to the start, I’ll distribute and coordinate Metrorail departure times from the greater Pasadena area the week of the hike.  

Questions?  Contact Jane Hufnagel, the organizer.