The Claremont Hills Wilderness Park is located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains and the Angeles National Forest. The Park offers a five-mile walking loop and smaller trails. Parking for the park is available in two parking lots:
- Main Lot (North) @ terminus of Mills Ave
- South Lot (Mt. Baldy and Mills Ave
Permits are required in the lots. Parking in the neighborhoods is restricted.
Park visitors should observe the rules and precautions of the Claremont Municipal Code.
For your pet’s protection, dogs must be kept on a leash of less than six feet in length at all times. Claremont Hills is a wilderness area with few improvements. The terrain is steep and rugged with no sources of safe drinking water. Visitors are advised to wear proper clothing and shoes for a Wilderness area, to carry water, and to be aware of possible hazards including bears, rattlesnakes, coyotes, bobcats, mountain lions, bees, and poison oak. In consideration of other visitors, please remove your dog’s waste products from the roads and trails.
Claremont Park Rangers have observed several species of wildlife in and around the park. Residents and visitors are warned to be cautious. Animals such as bears, deer, bobcats, coyotes, and mountain lions are becoming more active as the days become warmer.
If you see any wildlife, remain calm, stand tall, back away slowly, and do not try to get closer or engage the animal. While hiking, make noise to alert all animals of your presence and keep dogs on a leash next to you.
Heat alert
Extreme heat has contributed to several cases of dehydration in hikers and dogs at the Wilderness Park. Extreme dehydration can lead to heatstroke and death for you and your dog. Before beginning a hike or other physical activity in the City’s parks, please take a few precautions:
- Make sure you and your pet are hydrated BEFORE beginning a hike.
- Take plenty of water with you (the Wilderness Park does not have water fountains or restrooms with water).
- Take water for yourself, as well as for your dog. The larger the dog, the more water you should bring.
- Avoid strenuous activity during the peak heat hours (mid-day).
- Wear sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent exposure.
- Carry a cell phone for emergency purposes.
