Claremont Hills Wilderness Park

Announcement

The Claremont Hills Wilderness Park is OPEN.

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.

Wilderness Park Map(PDF, 4MB)

Donations

The CHWP is now accepting online donations to help support the maintenance and operations of the park. All donations received go directly toward Park improvement projects and making the park safer for all patrons! If you would like to donate, please visit the link below!

CLICK HERE TO MAKE A DONATION

Bench Sponsorships

Honor a friend, loved one, or community group by sponsoring a bench in the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park.

CLICK HERE TO SPONSOR A BENCH

Wildfire Public Survey

The San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments is developing a regional Community Wildfire Protection Plan to better prevent, prepare for, and respond to wildfires and they need to hear from you! Take the Wildfire Public Survey to share your experiences, suggestions, and concerns.

TAKE THE WILDLIFE PUBLIC SURVEY

FOR EMERGENCY, CALL CLAREMONT POLICE (909) 626-1296

Park Hours

January 6:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
February 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
March 6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
April 6:00 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
May 5:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
June 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
July 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
August 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
September 6:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
October 6:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
November 6:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
December 6:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Visitors in violation of the hours may be subject to a citation.

History of the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park

CHWP Top The hills of Claremont have a long history of providing open space for outdoor activities. Dating as far back as the 1800s, college students were known to hike in the foothills of present-day Claremont. From 1900 to 1950, the 180-acre area known as Johnson’s Pasture belonged to the Johnson family, who used the area primarily for picnicking, hiking, and planting trees, shrubs, and wildflowers with family and friends. The hillsides were reserved for agriculture and irrigation, as well as recreation. Gale Ranch was used to raise goats for mohair.

The Claremont Hills Wilderness Park opened in 1996 with 1,440 acres and was dedicated as a City Nature Park in 1997. The 2008 incorporation of Johnson's Pasture increased the park to 1,620 acres. Park boundaries include Marshall Canyon to the West, Angeles National Forest to the North, and San Bernardino County line to the East. Park elevation varies from 1,800 to 3,000 feet.

Since 1996, the City of Claremont, in cooperation with several non-profit organizations, has been purchasing and conveying hillside properties for permanent open space protection along the lower foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. These properties, now under ownership of the City of Claremont, are collectively known and managed as the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park.

The Claremont Hills Wilderness Park Management Plan was created to provide general guidelines concerning park management for City officials with the goal of preserving the natural characteristics of the park while providing visitors the opportunity for passive and recreational enjoyment of the park.

Rules & Precautions of the Wilderness Park

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.

Visitors to the park enter at their own risk. The City of Claremont is not responsible for any injuries resulting from use of the park.

Park visitors should observe the following rules and precautions of Claremont Municipal Code Chapter 11:

Park hours must be observed. No after-hours use is permitted. Park visitors in violation of the hours may be subject to a citation.
No safe drinking water available beyond the park entrance. Do not drink from the streams.
The Wilderness Park is subject to closure due to weather or hazardous conditions.
Groups of 20 or more are required to obtain a permit prior to using the park.
The cutting, pruning or injury of native vegetation or digging of any ground surface within the park is not permitted.
Hunting, trapping, or harvesting of any living or dead thing is not permitted.
The possession or use of firearms, air guns, bows and arrows, slingshots, or other weapons is not permitted.
For your pet's protection, dogs must be kept on a leash of less than six feet in length at all times.
In consideration of other visitors, please remove your dog's waste products from the roads and trails.
Glass containers can start brush fires and are not permitted within the park.
Fires of any kind including smoking, camp stoves, flammable liquids, or fireworks are not permitted in the park.
Possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages is not permitted.
Except for emergency and maintenance vehicles, no motor vehicles are permitted in the park.
Please take all trash and litter out of the park with you when you leave.
Stay on designated trails (along the fire roads) at all times.
Practice trail etiquette. Bicyclists and hikers must yield to horses. Bicyclists yield to hikers.
Bicyclists must maintain safe speeds at all times.
Excessive noise is prohibited.

Wildlife Sightings

Claremont Park Rangers have observed several species of wildlife in and around the CHWP. 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.

Snakes are also more active between April and October. If you’re out on a hike, it is important to be cautious of your surroundings. Always look ahead of you and where you are stepping. Avoid going off trail into bushes and places where it is harder to see a snake. On very hot days, snakes hide under rocks and in holes, so be aware of where you place your hands and feet. If a snake bites you, it is important to stay calm. If bitten, try to identify the snake to know whether it is venomous or not. If you are bitten by a venomous snake, you should seek medical attention as quickly as possible.

Stay safe by being aware of your surroundings and have a plan if an emergency arises. If you need assistance, please contact the Claremont Police Department at (909) 626-1296.

Heat Alert: Caring for Yourself & Your Pet When Hiking

Wilderness-Dog 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.

What is Heatstroke?

Heatstroke is the term used for elevated body temperature. When a dog's temperature exceeds 103º F, it is known as hyperthermia and is a dangerous and sometimes fatal condition.

The Warning Signs

It is important to monitor your dog and know the signs of heatstroke so you can act quickly and effectively if your pet is in danger.
The most common symptom is elevated breathing with excessive panting. Other signs include: drooling, dry or sticky gums, bruising or reddening of the gums, vomiting, diarrhea, or if your dog seems lethargic or disoriented. More extreme signs are loss of consciousness, uncoordinated movement, seizures or collapsing.

Act Quickly and Effectively

If your dog has these signs of heatstroke, the first step should be to call your veterinarian or a local emergency animal hospital and let them know you are on your way.

Ways to Help Your Pet

It's always important to monitor the temperature and outside conditions, especially during hot or humid weather. When outdoors with your pet, always identify sources of shade and water and make sure they have plenty of access. Remember to take frequent breaks to avoid excessive strenuous activity.

Wilderness Park Closures

The Claremont Hills Wilderness Park (CHWP) is located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains and is a popular hiking spot for residents and visitors from across the region. Each year, tens of thousands of visitors enjoy the park’s trails, wildlife, and vistas.

The Wilderness Park is open daily; however, it can be closed for a variety of weather advisories, park maintenance, or emergencies, and may be extended to avoid personal injury or loss of life and property.

In May 2016, the City Council approved the policy to authorize automatic closure of the CHWP during red flag conditions as a pre-emptive safety measure to protect life and property. Alerts are monitored through the National Weather Service. In addition to closures during Red Flag Warnings, the City Manager can authorize for temporary closures including fire, heat, heavy rain, winter storm, flooding, thunderstorms, high winds, earthquake, road and trail maintenance, and requests by law enforcement, as well as any other disasters impacting the CHWP. Closures may remain in place as needed to protect visitors from rockslides, unstable trees, high water, and smoldering fire activity. In order for the CHWP to re-open, emergency vehicles must be able to access the fire roads at all times.

Park closures are well publicized through multiple media channels including Constant Contact, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, City Manager Weekly Update, and the City Website, and include the estimated duration of the closure.

Reasons for closure of the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park include:

Red Flag Warning

A Red Flag Warning is a forecast warning issued by the United States National Weather Service to inform area firefighting and land management agencies that conditions are ideal for wild land fire ignition and rapid propagation. With drought conditions, very low humidity levels, high or erratic winds, which may include lightning, the Red Flag Warning becomes a critical statement for firefighting agencies. To the public, a Red Flag Warning means high fire danger with increased probability of a quickly spreading vegetation fire in the area within 24 hours. The current policy approved by the Claremont City Council calls for the CHWP to automatically close when the National Weather Service issues a Red Flag Warning that impacts parcels of the CHWP.

Fire

Fires can occur quickly and without warning. The CHWP will close if there is a fire within 10 miles north, northeast, or northwest of the park. The park will remain closed for 24-hours or as needed following a fire that has happened in the park or within five miles of park boundaries.

Heat

During Heat Advisories, the CHWP may be closed or may close early and remain closed for the duration of the day depending on the severity of the heat. There are two levels of heat advisories:

A Heat Advisory is when the maximum heat index temperature is expected to be 100° or higher for at least 2 days, and nighttime air temperatures will not drop below 75°.
An Excessive Heat Warning is issued within 12 hours of the onset of extremely dangerous heat conditions. This warning is when the maximum heat index temperature is expected to be 105° or higher for at least 2 consecutive days and nighttime air temperatures will not drop below 75°. Excessive heat outlooks are issued when the potential exists for an excessive heat event in the next 3-7 consecutive days.

Heavy Rain, Winter Warnings, & Flooding

Winter Storm Warnings are issued for a significant winter weather event including heavy rain, snow, ice, sleet or blowing snow or a combination of these hazards. The CHWP will be closed if two or more inches of rain are expected within a 24-hour period or heavy rain (two to four inches) for more than three consecutive days. Flooding may also occur within the park due to extended rain or heavy rain fall.

Thunderstorms

A Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued when severe thunderstorms are happening or are imminent in the warning area. Severe thunderstorms have wind of 58 mph or higher and/or hail one inch or larger. Wind this strong is able to break off large branches, knock over trees, or cause structural damage to trees. Some severe thunderstorms can produce hail larger than softballs or winds over 100 mph. Thunderstorms also produce tornadoes and dangerous lightning; heavy rain can cause flash flooding. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property.

High Winds

A High Wind Warning is defined by sustained strong winds with even stronger gusts. A Dust Storm Warning is issued when visibility is 1/2 mile or less due to blowing dust or sand, and wind speeds of 30 mph or more.

Earthquake

The CHWP will be evaluated by Claremont Park Rangers and emergency personnel after an earthquake to evaluate downed trees and debris that may be blocking the roads. Once adequate vehicle access has been established, the City of Claremont will determine any required maintenance and will reopen the park once the roads have been cleared and the trails are safe for park users.

Road & Trail Maintenance

Due to extreme weather, natural disasters, or annual road clearance/maintenance, the CHWP may be closed for repair. Once road conditions have been established safe for vehicles and crews to access the damaged areas, the road repair or maintenance will be conducted quickly. The public will be notified of the anticipated timeline for the park closure. Once the road work or trail maintenance is completed and deemed safe for reopening, additional notification will be distributed through City media sources.

CHWP & TCT Parking Permits

The City of Claremont encourages all visitors to the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park (CHWP) and Thompson Creek Trail (TCT) to utilize the parking lots available on Mills Avenue and offers several convenient options! Please see below to determine the best option for you. All vehicles parking in the CHWP or TCT lot must purchase parking. Violators will be cited.

2023 sticker permits expired on March 31, 2024, and citations will be issued to vehicles without a license plate-based permit.

Please note that parking in neighborhoods surrounding the CHWP is restricted, and citations will be issued for vehicles in violation of posted regulations.

Hourly Parking

Now accepting tap-to-pay, Apple Pay, and other mobile payment options!

Hourly parking is available in both the CHWP and TCT lots on Mills Ave in 4 or 6-hour increments. Permits can be purchased several ways: at the on-site pay stations, by using the text-to-pay number listed on signs at the lot, via QR code on signs at the lot, or by using the Flowbird App, available in the App Store or Google Play store. All you need is a debit/credit card and license plate! Cash or check is not accepted.

Hourly parking rates are as follows:

Annual Parking Permit

$170.00 per year

NOTE: Physical stickers or permits are no longer issued. Your license plate will act as your permit. Please ensure the license plate entered during your purchase is accurate.

Annual Parking Permits allow for a single vehicle to utilize the CHWP or TCT parking lots for 365 days from the date of purchase, saving you time and money! To purchase your annual parking permit, click the link below. It is highly recommended that visitors purchase passes online so they can manage their account. However, permits can also be purchased at the Alexander Hughes Community Center during normal hours of operation.

To create a new parking permit account once you click the link:

Select “Register New User”.
Enter all requested information, such as name, email, phone number, and create a password. Failure to enter all contact information may result in your permit being invalid.
Read and agree to the terms and conditions.
Select “Register”.
Verify your email address.
Return to the portal and login.
Click the “Apply for Permit” button and follow the prompts.

Annual parking permits are valid 365 days from the time of purchase. You will receive an automatic renewal reminder before expiration, and you may opt to have your purchase automatically renew. Permits are valid for a single vehicle. In the event you have a rental vehicle or purchase a new vehicle, you may change the license plate assigned to the permit a maximum of 2 times by logging into the portal. If you have more than 2 changes, you will need to purchase another permit. Permits are non-refundable and are not pro-rated for any reason. All purchases are final. Annual permits are not valid when the CHWP has been closed due to hazardous conditions. There is no need to visit an on-site parking meter after purchasing.

Annual CHWP Parking Permit Purchase Now

Resident Parking

Claremont residents receive 6 hours of FREE parking in the TCT lot per day with valid driver’s license.

The City of Claremont offers 6 hours of FREE parking to all Claremont residents in the Thompson Creek Trail lot (or South lot) on the corner of Mt. Baldy Rd. and Mills Ave. Residents must possess a valid California driver’s license with a Claremont address listed. It is a misdemeanor under CMC 10.69.090 to obtain resident parking under false pretenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does the system work?

A: Residents will utilize the meter at the TCT parking lot and follow the prompts to scan their license, then enter their license plate number. Park Rangers will be able to view which plates have valid permits. *Residents receive free parking in the south lot/TCT parking lot only. *

Q: Do I need to apply online or in-person to obtain free resident parking?

A: No – simply follow the onscreen prompts, scan your driver’s license, and enter your license plate number any time your visit. It’s as easy as that!

Q: What are the benefits of the new system?

A: With this change, residents are no longer limited to 2 permits per household. Purchase a new car or have a rental? No problem – your ID is all you need to park. Plus, residents no longer need to apply in-person to receive this benefit.

Q: What if my driver’s license has my old address?

A: California Vehicle Code section 14600(a) requires that you notify the DMV within 10 days of moving to a new address. Addresses can be updated through the DMV’s website or at a DMV office. Once your address has been updated, you can request a new license be mailed to you through the DMV.

Q: What if I prefer to purchase an Annual Parking Permit for use in the northern lot?

A: Those who wish to purchase an annual permit will be able to do so online through the permit portal on our website using their license plate number. Annual Permits are $170 and will be valid for 365 days from the date of purchase.

For additional information, contact the Recreation & Human Services Department at (909) 399-5490 or email parks@ci.claremont.ca.us.

Disabled and Veterans Parking

Vehicles displaying handicap placards or license plates may park free of charge. There is no need to purchase a permit or enter your license plate information.

Veterans with designated plates license plates may park free of charge. A veteran’s license plate is defined as a valid license plate issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, pursuant to Cal. Veh. Code §§ 5101.3, 5101.4 5101.5, 5101.6 and 5101.8, which provides for the issuance of license plates to Medal of Honor recipients, Legion of Valor recipients, Purple Heart recipients, Pearl Harbor survivors, and former American prisoners of war, and such other plates issued by another state that indicate a similar status. There is no need to enter your license plate information.

Claremont Colleges Student Parking

Students attending the Claremont Colleges who reside on campus and possess a vehicle are eligible for free parking in the TCT/South lot. To obtain a parking permit, the student must visit the Alexander Hughes Community Center during normal operating hours in the vehicle which they wish to register, complete an application, and provide copies of the following documents:

Claremont Colleges student identification card

Proof of enrollment for the current semester

Proof of residency on campus (housing agreement)

Valid driver’s license

Applications and documentation will be reviewed by staff. The student will be notified within seven business days regarding their application status. Parking permits are not valid until the student is notified.

Students who do not reside on campus but live in the City of Claremont must utilize the resident parking procedure described above. Faculty are not eligible for free parking unless they are a Claremont resident, in which case the instructions above for resident parking should be utilized.

Park Rangers

To ensure the safety of park users, the City’s Park Rangers patrol Claremont’s urban and rural parks by bike, off-road vehicle, and on foot, and they work jointly with other departments and agencies, including the Community Services Department, the Claremont Police Department, and the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Park Rangers also support and engage the community in activities within City parks, and they facilitate environmental awareness and education on the proper use of City parks through regular contact with park users.

Reserve Park Ranger Program

Local citizens may apply to participate and work shoulder to shoulder with the City’s Park Rangers to:

Promote public safety
Provide information to visitors
Assist in emergencies
Inspect Park facilities
Enforce the City's municipal code
Monitor/verify park usage permits, public events, and organized sports groups.

To reach the Park Rangers during business hours, contact the Alexander Hughes Community Center at (909) 399-5490.

Location

N. Mills Avenue and Mt. Baldy Road, Claremont, CA 91711 View Map

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Facility Snapshot

Features

Accessible
Claremont 5 Mile Loop
Hiking Trails
Kiosk

Contact

Alexander Hughes Community Center

(909) 399-5490

Hours

January: 6:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
February: 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
March: 6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
April: 6:00 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
May: 5:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
June: 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
July: 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
August: 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
September: 6:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
October: 6:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
November: 6:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
December: 6:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m