Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Benedict Canyon Preserve is located in the Beverly Hills and West Hollywood area of Los Angeles, California. Spanning approximately 200 acres, the preserve conserves a coastal sage scrub and chaparral ecosystem that supports native plant and animal species typical to Southern California's Mediterranean climate. It features rolling hills, chaparral-covered slopes, and riparian habitats along Benedict Creek, a tributary to Coldwater Canyon. The preserve was established in 1996 through a collaboration of local conservation groups and landowners to protect it from development and maintain natural open space amid the dense urban environment. Its habitats host wildlife such as coyotes, bobcats, various bird species, and native plants including coast live oak, toyon, and elderberry. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore roughly three miles of hiking trails, enjoying peaceful nature walks with views of the surrounding Santa Monica Mountains and the Los Angeles basin below. Although there are no campgrounds or visitor centers within the preserve, it remains a valued green space for day hiking, bird watching, and nature study. Access points are located off Benedict Canyon Drive. The preserve is also important for maintaining biodiversity and natural drainage within the urban landscape. Benedict Canyon Preserve offers a rare opportunity to experience native Southern California ecosystems in close proximity to one of the nation’s largest metropolitan areas.
