Temescal Gateway Park waterfall

Since I work in Pacific Palisades, I visit Temescal Gateway Park nearly every day on my lunch break. I find that the 141-acre park, with trails that connect to Will Rogers State Historic Park and Topanga Canyon State Park, is a nice escape from sitting in front of the computer.

If I have time, I hike the two miles along Temescal Canyon Trail to a seasonal waterfall. It's an easy hike and the trail is mostly shaded by sycamores and oaks. The waterfall isn't too impressive, but it's a pleasant spot to relax.

During my visits to the park, I often see swallowtail butterflies, lizards, squirrels and salamanders (near the waterfall). This past week, I found a nest with two red-tailed hawks.

Directions: Temescal Gateway Park is located in Pacific Palisades, just one mile north of Pacific Coast Highway at the intersection of Temescal Canyon Road and Sunset Boulevard. Address: 15601 Sunset Blvd., Pacific Palisades