Take A Self-Guided Tour
Using this stop-by-stop guide to explore Ballona Discovery Park and the Riparian Corridor Trail
Area 1: Pollinator Garden
Ballona Discovery Park is landscaped with local native plants endemic to the area. These plants provide food, shelter, and other resources to local wildlife that non-native plants are not able to provide.
Area 2: Watershed Walk
Did you know you’re standing in a watershed right now? Everywhere you are, you are connected by water, and everywhere you go, you’re in a watershed. But what IS a watershed? Click the button to find out!
Area 3: Bird Nerd
Ballona is a part of the Pacific Coast Flyway, where millions of birds migrate each year. Some migrants might be in the park now!
Area 4: Medicinal Garden
Long before modern medicine, the Gabrielino-Tongva people used the wonders of nature to treat ailments of all sorts. Explore the Medicinal Garden to find local native plants that treat colds, inflammation, sore throats, and more! Some of these plants aren’t in bloom right now, so we added a photo gallery here so you can see their beautiful flowers.
Area 5: Explore the KIIY
Ballona Discovery Park and the wetlands are located on the ancestral lands of the Gabrielino-Tongva people. Throughout the park you will find signage describing the history of Ballona’s original inhabitants. You can sit in the model of a “Kiiy” and listen to some of the tribe’s stories. One of these stories is included below, “How California Was Made,” also known as the Turtle Story.
Area 6: A 360 ° View
Experience the bliss of floating on the water in the Riparian Corridor as the birds fly and float by. Can you spot the swooping swallows and the pair of ducks? This is a 360° view, use your curser or finger to move the video around and see the whole corridor!
Area 7: Restoration
Did you know all this nature you’re visiting wasn’t here 20 years ago? Everything you’re standing on was once owned by business tycoon and aviator, Howard Hughes. Ballona has been through a lot - learn about how wetlands damaged by farms and industry were restored back to a thriving ecosystem!
Area 8: Riparian Corridor East
Some wildlife is more likely heard than seen and they prefer it that way! When you explore, don’t forget to listen for critters in the wild and in your neighborhood.
Area 9: Riparian Corridor West
Scientists call the benefits humans get from the environment, including some animal interactions, “ecosystem services.” Birds and bats are our friends! Find out how we can help them and how they can help us.
Area 10: Cabora Drive Trail Closed Until Further Notice
Due to a landslide we've had to close this trail.