Eaton Canyon is a 190-acre natural area at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains in Pasadena, offering foothill birding just 15 minutes from downtown LA. The canyon's mix of coastal sage scrub, chaparral, oak woodland, and riparian habitat along Eaton Creek supports an impressive diversity of resident and migrant birds.
The nature center sits at the mouth of the canyon, with trails leading up along the creek to a waterfall. California Quail are abundant, and the sage scrub hosts the federally threatened California Gnatcatcher. Spring brings breeding Phainopeplas, Ash-throated Flycatchers, and Costa's Hummingbirds, along with migrant warblers and flycatchers in the riparian corridor. The canyon is also excellent for raptors — Red-tailed Hawks, Cooper's Hawks, and occasionally Golden Eagles soar over the ridgelines.
When is the best time to visit Eaton Canyon Natural Area Park for birding?▼
The best months to visit Eaton Canyon Natural Area Park for birding are March-May. The best seasons are Spring and Winter.
What birds can I see at Eaton Canyon Natural Area Park?▼
Notable species at Eaton Canyon Natural Area Park include California Gnatcatcher, California Quail, Phainopepla, Costa's Hummingbird, Wrentit, California Thrasher, American Crow, Dark-eyed Junco, California Towhee, Red-tailed Hawk. The area supports chaparral, forest, riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Eaton Canyon Natural Area Park?▼
Birding at Eaton Canyon Natural Area Park is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
Is there an entrance fee at Eaton Canyon Natural Area Park?▼
There is no entrance fee at Eaton Canyon Natural Area Park. Hours: Dawn to dusk daily.
What amenities are available at Eaton Canyon Natural Area Park?▼
Eaton Canyon Natural Area Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Visitor Center, Trails.
