Last Updated on Sep 23, 2025
Franklin Canyon Park, located in the heart of Los Angeles, is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The park spans over 600 acres and features a variety of landscapes, from dense woodlands to open grasslands, making it a haven for both wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. It is home to the picturesque Franklin Canyon Lake, where visitors can enjoy a tranquil walk around the reservoir or take in views of the surrounding canyon. The park offers several hiking trails, including the popular 2-mile loop around the lake, as well as longer routes that provide panoramic views of the city and nearby mountains. Franklin Canyon is also rich in history, having served as a filming location for numerous TV shows and movies. Its diverse flora and fauna, including native plants and birds, make it a great spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Whether you're looking to hike, relax, or simply enjoy the natural beauty, Franklin Canyon Park offers a peaceful retreat right in the middle of Los Angeles.
Franklin Canyon Lake, located within Franklin Canyon Park, is a serene, picturesque reservoir that serves as the centerpiece of the park's natural beauty. Surrounded by lush greenery and nestled in a canyon, the lake offers a peaceful setting for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. The area around the lake is home to diverse wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and the occasional deer, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers. A short, easy trail loops around the lake, providing scenic views of the water and the surrounding hills, and is perfect for a relaxing walk or a peaceful moment of reflection. As one of the hidden gems of the city, Franklin Canyon Lake offers a tranquil oasis, ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat in nature.
The park features several trails, including the popular 2-mile loop around the serene Franklin Canyon Reservoir, where hikers can enjoy views of lush greenery, towering trees, and the occasional wildlife. The park's diverse ecosystem—ranging from chaparral to riparian habitats—provides a refreshing escape with its tranquil atmosphere and proximity to urban life. A highlight of the hike is the opportunity to explore the park's rich history and its role as a filming location for numerous movies and TV shows. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Franklin Canyon Park offers a beautiful and accessible outdoor retreat.
Franklin Canyon Park has been a cinematic gem, gracing the silver screen with its stunning landscapes in a plethora of iconic films. From the legendary hitch-hiking scene in "It Happened One Night" (1934) to the eerie waters of "Creature from the Black Lagoon" (1954), and the serene backdrop of "On Golden Pond" (1981), the park has offered a diverse range of settings for cinematic storytelling. Whether serving as a tranquil pond in classic dramas or a mysterious lagoon in creature features, Franklin Canyon Park has played a pivotal role in creating memorable moments in film history.
The allure of Franklin Canyon Park extends to the small screen, making it a sought-after location for various television productions. From the nostalgic opening credits fishing hole in "The Andy Griffith Show" to the otherworldly landscapes featured in "Star Trek," "Twin Peaks," and "American Horror Story: 1984," the park has become a versatile and timeless backdrop for television storytelling. Its lush greenery and diverse terrains have set the stage for everything from family-friendly series like "The Waltons" to iconic dramas like "Dynasty" and gripping mysteries like "Murder She Wrote," showcasing its enduring appeal across a wide spectrum of television genres.
Franklin Canyon Park's natural beauty served as a captivating backdrop for renowned photographer Guy Webster, gracing the album covers of iconic musical works. The park's tranquil ambiance and scenic vistas provided the perfect setting for the "Sounds of Silence" album cover by Simon & Garfunkel, creating a visual complement to the duo's timeless music. Additionally, Franklin Canyon Park lent its allure to "Big Hits (High Tide and Green Grass)," an album by The Rolling Stones, showcasing its versatility as a picturesque canvas for capturing the essence of musical masterpieces. The park's influence in the world of album cover art further attests to its timeless and cross-disciplinary appeal.
To reach Franklin Canyon Reservoir, follow these directions based on your starting point in Los Angeles:
From Downtown Los Angeles:
1. Get on US-101 N from W 1st St and N Main St.
2. Follow US-101 N and I-10 W to S Beverly Dr in Beverly Hills. Take exit 47B from I-10 W.
3. Follow Beverly Dr, W Sunset Blvd, and N Beverly Dr until you reach Franklin Canyon Dr.
4. Turn onto Franklin Canyon Dr and follow it up into the park, where you’ll find parking near the reservoir.
From Santa Monica:
1. Head east on I-10 E toward Downtown Los Angeles.
2. Take exit 47B for S Beverly Dr.
3. Turn left on S Beverly Dr and follow it toward Franklin Canyon Dr.
4. Turn left onto Franklin Canyon Dr and continue up into the park.
Once you arrive, you can park near the reservoir, and from there, it's a short walk to the lake and surrounding trails. Make sure to check current road conditions or closures, especially on weekends or holidays, as traffic and accessibility can sometimes vary.
Franklin Canyon Reservoir
Address
2600 Franklin Canyon Drive, Beverly Hills, CA
Phone
310.858.7272
