Upper River
The Upper River is where the LA River begins, and it’s one of its greenest stretches. You’ll find soft-bottom sections where native plants grow and birds thrive. Popular spots include the Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve, where you can walk, birdwatch, or even kayak during the summer recreation season.
Keep an eye out for: American white pelicans, ospreys, turtles, and migrating birds of all kinds.
Where to explore:
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Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve (nature trails, birdwatching)
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LA River Recreation Zone (seasonal kayaking)
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Balboa Park (bike paths, picnic areas)
Middle River
This stretch runs through neighborhoods like Elysian Valley (Frogtown), Atwater Village, and Downtown LA. It’s more urban, but filled with murals, pocket parks, and creative energy. Here, the River winds past art spaces, community gardens, and one of the most iconic filming locations in Los Angeles.
Keep an eye out for: great blue herons, egrets, and bright green parrots squawking overhead.
Where to explore:
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Lewis MacAdams Riverfront Park – Just north of Downtown, this park honors FoLAR’s co-founder and offers one of the best views of the soft-bottom LA River. With native plants, walking paths, and lots of birdlife, it’s a peaceful place to connect with the River’s past and future.
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LA River Center and Gardens – A hidden gem near the 110, this historic Mission-style space is home to FoLAR’s offices and other River advocates. With fountains, courtyards, and shaded gardens, it’s perfect for events or a quiet visit.
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Taylor Yard Pedestrian & Bicycle Bridge – This bright orange bridge links Elysian Valley and Cypress Park, offering scenic views and access to key restoration sites like Taylor Yard G2. It’s a great place for a golden hour walk or ride.
Lower River
From Vernon to Long Beach
The Lower River is wide, engineered, and filled with stories. While it’s mostly concrete, this stretch is where some of the biggest restoration plans are in the works. The area around Compton Creek is full of life, and the river mouth near Long Beach opens up to coastal wetlands.
Keep an eye out for: pelicans, mallards, dragonflies, and sometimes even fish swimming upriver.
Where to explore:
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DeForest Park – A large urban park in North Long Beach with trails that lead right up to the River. Recent habitat restoration has brought native plants and pollinators back to the area, making it a great place for a quiet walk, a family outing, or a glimpse of how the Lower River can thrive.
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Dominguez Gap Wetlands – A scenic loop trail winds through restored wetlands where you can spot birds, turtles, and wildflowers. A great stop for walking, birdwatching, or just enjoying the quiet.
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Long Beach Bike Path – Where the River meets the ocean. This stretch runs alongside the River’s mouth and offers panoramic views of downtown Long Beach, the Port, and the Pacific. Ride at sunset for the full effect.
RIVER BINGO
Whether you’re walking, biking, or birdwatching along the LA River, our printable River Bingo card is a fun way to notice what’s around you. Spot a turtle sunning on a rock? A mural? A snowy egret? Mark it off! It’s a great activity for families, students, or anyone who wants to slow down and explore the River with fresh eyes. Download your card and start playing.