Best attractions and places to see around Temple City include a blend of suburban charm, historical interest, and access to natural beauty. Situated at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, the area offers numerous parks, historical sites, and cultural venues. Visitors can explore green spaces, learn about the region's past, and access outdoor activities. This region provides diverse points of interest for various preferences.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Highlight β’ Bridge
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) β’ Trail
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight β’ Waterfall
Tip by
Highlight β’ Forest
Tip by
Highlight β’ Rest Area
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Temple City.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The Club House is a vibrant bike shop offering bike sales and service, apparel, gear, and cacti. What began with a red VW bus and online sales in 2017 transitioned to an old service station turned plant store. A small, fun-loving team runs the shop, sharing their love of cycling. Stop by for events like the annual Bike & Car Show, a lazy Sunday ride, the Wednesday night Basket Ride, or just to grab coffee at their mobile espresso bar.
1
0
Built in 1912 this historic bridge plays an important part in the growth of the city. For a short time in the 1930's and 40s it was part of the iconic "Route 66" that stretched from Santa Monica to Chicago. Aside from a short closure and refurbishment after the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, the bridge has been in operation for well over a century.
1
0
Duarte Bike Trail is a multi-purpose trail that was founded in 1977. It stretches 1.6 miles from Buena Vista Avenue to Royal Oaks Park at Vineyard Avenue. There are both a paved cycling path and a dirt jogging and equestrian trail. The path runs under shady oak trees with gentle slopes, and the trail follows the historic Pacific Electric Railway route, where you can spot an arched bridge that once carried Red Trolley Cars to Los Angeles. Great for biking, jogging, dog walking, or leisurely strolls, the trail includes amenities like parking, restrooms at Royal Oaks Park, drinking fountains, and a bike repair station at Vineyard Avenue. Itβs open daily from dawn to dusk.
0
0
There is a parking lot and restroom here at the trailhead, which provides access to a large network of paved and packed dirt trails along the beautiful Rio Hondo. The trailhead closes at sunset.
0
0
If you come down from Pincrest Dr, cross the bridge and keep right walking a loop to get under the bridge. From here follow the creek by crossing the stream over rocks and trunks around 10 times before you reach the small lake with the waterfall. Have great fun by taking a "shower".
0
0
Bosque del Rio Hondo, which is Spanish for βForest of the Deep River, is a small quaint green area just off from Whittier Arrows lakes & Recreation Area. It is also abundant with wildlife and used by the public for picnics, biking and hiking because it provides access to the Rio Hondo and San Gabriel River bicycle paths.
1
0
40 foot water fall in the San Gabriel Mountains. The hike up to the falls is moderate with several stream crossings. It can get busy during peak times, but is definitely work the trek up.
1
0
The iconic Colorado Street Bridge was designed and built in 1912 at a total cost of $191,000 (equivalent to $4,875,259 in 2019). Designed by Kansas City, Missouri, firm Waddell & Harrington, the structure carries Colorado Boulevard (then called "Colorado Street"), the major east-west thoroughfare connecting Pasadena with Eagle Rock and Glendale to the west, and with Monrovia to the east. The Colorado Street Bridge replaced the small Scoville Bridge located near the bottom of the Arroyo Seco. The bridge follows a curved path so that the footings would sit on more solid ground than a straight bridge would have provided. The bridge spans 1,486 feet (453 m) at a maximum height of 150 feet (45 m) and is notable for its distinctive Beaux Arts arches, light standards, and railings. The bridge is on the National Register of Historic Places and has been designated a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers. During the early part of the twentieth century, the Colorado Street Bridge became known locally as "Suicide Bridge" after dozens of people leaped to their deaths. Wikipedia has more details: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colorado_Street_Bridge_(Pasadena,_California)
0
1
Near Temple City, you can discover several natural highlights. The Eaton Canyon Waterfall in the San Gabriel Mountains offers a moderate hike with stream crossings to a 40-foot waterfall. For a more serene experience, Bosque del Rio Hondo provides an urban wilderness with a scenic lake, walking trails, and opportunities for fishing and bird watching. Additionally, Live Oak Park and Peck Road Water Conservation Park offer green spaces for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Yes, Temple City and its surroundings are rich in history. The Historic Colorado Street Bridge, though in nearby Pasadena, is a significant landmark built in 1912 and was once part of Route 66. Within Temple City, the Temple City Historical Museum showcases the city's development. The Mission San Gabriel ArcΓ‘ngel, a short distance away, is also historically significant as the site of the original San Gabriel Mission.
Temple City offers several family-friendly options. Temple City Park and Live Oak Park are central gathering places with recreational facilities, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The Duarte Bike Trail is a multi-purpose path suitable for biking, jogging, and leisurely strolls with gentle slopes and shaded areas. Many natural attractions like Bosque del Rio Hondo are also popular for family picnics and walks.
Absolutely. Temple City is at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, offering various hiking opportunities. The hike to Eaton Canyon Waterfall is a popular moderate trail with stream crossings. For more extensive hiking, the San Gabriel Mountains provide numerous trails. You can find detailed routes and guides for mountain biking and gravel biking, which often include hiking paths, on komoot's MTB Trails around Temple City guide.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. The Duarte Bike Trail is a 1.6-mile off-street path, part of the historic Pacific Electric Railway route, perfect for a leisurely ride. Bosque del Rio Hondo also provides access to the Rio Hondo and San Gabriel River bicycle paths. For more challenging rides, komoot offers guides like Gravel biking around Temple City and Road Cycling Routes around Temple City.
Temple City hosts cultural events and sites. The Performing Arts Pavilion in Temple City Park stages various concerts and performances. The annual Camellia Festival, held on the last weekend of February, is a signature event featuring a parade, carnival, and art show. Nearby, the Hsi Lai Temple in Hacienda Heights is one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in the Western Hemisphere, offering ornate architecture and peaceful gardens.
The best time to visit Temple City's outdoor attractions is generally during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and pleasant for hiking, cycling, and exploring parks. Summers can be hot, especially for strenuous outdoor activities, while winters are typically mild but can bring occasional rain.
Many of Temple City's parks and trails are dog-friendly, provided pets are kept on a leash. The Duarte Bike Trail is suitable for dog walking, and natural areas like Eaton Canyon Waterfall are often enjoyed by dog owners. Always check specific park regulations for any restrictions.
For a unique local experience, consider visiting The Cub House, a vibrant bike shop that also serves as a community hub with a mobile espresso bar and hosts events like bike and car shows. Historically, Temple City was the birthplace of Winchell's Donuts and home to Pete & Jake's Hot Rod Repair, adding to its local charm.
Yes, Temple City has various dining options. The Temple City Marketplace and Las Tunas Plaza are bustling shopping centers with a variety of retail stores and dining choices. For a notable culinary experience, Bistro Na's, a Michelin-starred Beijing-based restaurant, is located near Temple City. You can also find cafes near hiking trails, such as the mobile espresso bar at The Cub House.
Most major parks and attractions in Temple City, such as Temple City Park, Live Oak Park, and Bosque del Rio Hondo, offer dedicated parking lots. For trailheads like those leading to Eaton Canyon Waterfall, parking is typically available, though it can get busy during peak times. The Duarte Bike Trail also includes parking at Royal Oaks Park.
In natural areas like Bosque del Rio Hondo and Peck Road Water Conservation Park, you can expect to see various bird species, especially around the water features. The San Gabriel Mountains are home to diverse wildlife, including deer, coyotes, and smaller mammals, though sightings can be rare. Always observe wildlife from a distance and do not feed animals.


Still not found the Highlight youβre looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: