Eugene Debs Regional Park

Ernest E. Debs Regional Park // www.laparks.org // 4235 Monterey Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90032

A while ago, my mother purchased 2 books by Charles Fleming: Secret Staircases of LA and Secret Walks of LA. Since then, it's been our misison to cross as many of them off our list as we can.

On a very hot weekend, we went to Eugene Debs Park. There is a main entrence, but we went the back way off Via Marisol next to the 110. 

The first thing we noticed is how great the views are. They continued to get better as we climbed. After winding up the hill we came to a paved road where there was a huge gazebo. I have never before seen a gazebo so perfectly placed. From inside it, you have panoramic views of LA. It would definitely be worth it to pack a picnic and take it all in. 

If you continue going up, you'll come across something even more unexpected. Aptly named Peanut Lake is neslted near remnants of an old resort. It's a bit surreal to see downtown LA, then turn around and be at a picturesque pond. When we were there we saw a few families fishing.

The rest of the hike was pretty uneventful,. If you're looking for scenery over a workout, I would suggest turning around and going back the way you came. My mum and I followed the book, though, so we continued. All in all it was a nice little hideaway. I will definitely go back, only on a day that isn't 90 degrees.