Unique tour of LA River to Griffith Parks Old abandoned Zoo

Highlights

• Explore the Glendale Narrows, a hidden gem of the Los Angeles River
• Learn about the river's history, ecology, and restoration efforts
• Cross a cool bridge over the LA river's & go thru a tunnel under fwy to park
• Visit scenic photography locations and capture dramatic views
• Explore a hidden Old Abandoned Zoo

Description

Explore the Glendale Narrows, the only major stretch of the Los Angeles River where the river still flows across its natural earthen bottom. While much of the LA River is lined with concrete, this unique section between Glendale, Atwater Village, Frogtown (Elysian Valley), and Griffith Park remains a thriving urban ecosystem where history, nature, and engineering come together.

Cross a cool new bridge over the LA River and enter a pedestrian tunnel under the I-5 fwy to one of the city's most fascinating landscapes, revealing hidden trails, flowing water, towering bridges, rail lines, public art, and lush vegetation that surprises even lifelong Angelenos. Along the way, learn how the Los Angeles River shaped the city's development, why this section escaped full concrete channelization, and how it has become a centerpiece of one of the nation's largest urban river restoration efforts.

Depending on the season, you may spot great blue herons, snowy egrets, hawks, ducks, turtles, fish, and many other species that have made this remarkable stretch of river their home. Discuss the native plants and the important role this habitat plays within one of America's largest metropolitan areas.

One cool experience is walking thru a little-known pedestrian tunnel beneath Interstate 5 that connects the river corridor to Griffith Park. This hidden passage offers a unique perspective on Los Angeles and showcases how the city's natural spaces, neighborhoods, and transportation networks intersect in unexpected ways.
we will walk thru griffith Parks picnic area to arrive at an Old Abandoned zoo that seems to be left back in time. this is one of the most photographed abandoned places in Los Angeles.

Throughout the tour, stop at scenic viewpoints perfect for photography, capturing dramatic views of the river, bridges, native vegetation, murals, and the striking contrast between urban infrastructure and nature. Whether you're interested in local history, ecology, photography, architecture, or simply discovering places few visitors ever see, this experience offers something memorable for everyone.

Along the route, learn about the Tongva people, the river's role in the growth of Los Angeles, devastating historic floods, the massive flood-control projects of the 20th century, and today's efforts to restore the river as a place for wildlife, recreation, and community.