#234: Ferndell Nature Center

I love the name Ferndell. It reminds me of the 90's animated movie FernGully, with its vibrantly saturated colors and greenery. Ferndell Nature Center is equally verdant and quite arguably the lushest area of Griffith Park. It's also the perfect spot for a cool summer stroll. The towering California sycamores at Ferndell provide ample shade, and there are over 50 species of ferns to admire on your walk. 

A suspended plant hanging above the trail

Located at the Western Canyon entrance to Griffith Park, Ferndell blends so well into its surroundings that most people don’t even know it’s there. The pathway is flat and paved, making it perfect for dogs, elderly people and families with small children. Although it’s located right next to a busy street, the trees block the sound and the view so it felt like we were much farther away from the hustle and bustle.

I read that Ferndell was a popular filming spot for Star Trek. When I told Brad this, he (a closet Trekkie) seemed much more interested in our excursion. If you're a Trekkie too, check out this guy's blog post in which he takes pictures at various Star Trek film locations around L.A., including at Ferndell.

One of the Star Trek film spots

We spent a leisurely half an hour exploring the area, which is only about ¼ mile long.  Along the way, we passed by little waterfalls, purple morning glories, and a few benches. 

Small waterfall

We easily found free street parking on Ferndell Drive. To get to the entrance of the park, turn north onto Ferndell Drive from Los Feliz Drive. The entrance sign is on your left not too long after the turn. 

Look for this sign on your left

Just north of Ferndell is the highly rated Trail’s Café, but we were too full from lunch to check it out. Next time!  

Have you been to Ferndell? What did you think of it? Leave me a comment below!

Ferndell Nature Center

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