Century City
Updated on Apr 26 2024 8:14am
Stretching across Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach, California, the Beach Cities Greenway offers a scenic and leisurely 3.9-mile rail trail experience. Situated on the median between Valley Drive and Ardmore Avenue, this linear park provides a serene escape amidst the bustling urban landscape of the Beach Cities.
The northern trailhead of the Beach Cities Greenway sits at Sepulveda Blvd. and Valley Drive, conveniently positioned opposite the Manhattan Village shopping center in Manhattan Beach. On the southern end, the trailhead is located at Herondo Street and Valley Drive, marking the boundary between Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach. These trailheads serve as gateways to the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that await along the greenway.
Officially named the Hermosa Valley Greenbelt, Hermosa Beach's section of the greenway offers a lush and tranquil escape for visitors. In Manhattan Beach, the greenway was once known as Manhattan Parkway until it was renamed Veterans Parkway in 1988. These sections of the greenway boast rich histories and provide peaceful retreats for locals and visitors alike.
Spanning approximately 21 acres in Manhattan Beach and 19 acres in Hermosa Beach, the greenway offers ample space for outdoor recreation. The trail is popular among joggers and dog walkers, with amenities such as quarter-mile markers, outdoor fitness equipment, public art installations, benches, and drinking fountains enhancing the trail experience. However, it's important to note that bicycles are not permitted on the greenway, maintaining a peaceful atmosphere for pedestrians.
The Beach Cities Greenway occupies the former route of the California Central Railway, which once connected Redondo Junction to Redondo Beach. Over the years, this railway fell into disuse, leading to the abandonment of the line in 1983. Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach took ownership of their respective sections of the right-of-way in the late 1980s, paving the way for the creation of the greenway.
Looking ahead, Hermosa Beach has plans to enhance accessibility along the greenway, particularly for wheelchair users. Efforts are underway to replace wood chips with decomposed granite along certain stretches, ensuring that more individuals can enjoy the natural beauty of the greenway. Additionally, volunteers are actively working to preserve and restore native vegetation along the trail, fostering a healthy ecosystem and supporting local biodiversity.
The Beach Cities Greenway serves as a beloved community asset, providing residents and visitors with a tranquil retreat and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll, a jog through nature, or a leisurely walk with your furry friend, the greenway offers something for everyone to enjoy amidst the scenic beauty of Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach.