Galster Wilderness Park

San Jose Hills Preserve

Galster Wilderness Park

An untouched 42-acre natural sanctuary elevated above West Covina. Dedicated to wildlife conservation, scenic ridge hiking, and native flora preservation.

📍 West Covina, CA
🥾 Moderate Trails
🎟️ Free Entry
01

Ridge Loop Trail Hiking

Traverse scenic paths with elevation gains offering clear vistas of the San Gabriel Valley and San Gabriel Mountains.

02

Native Wildlife Exploration

Home to native SoCal fauna including red-tailed hawks, fence lizards, owls, and seasonal migratory birds.

03

Educational Nature Center

Features hands-on displays, local fossil collections, and community environmental workshops on weekends.

Park Heritage & Timeline

1971
The Donation

Emil and Julia Galster gifted the land to West Covina to safeguard it from urban developments.

NATIVE ECOSYSTEM
Rare Flora Sanctuary

Protects Southern California Black Walnut trees and rare coastal sage scrub brush.

TODAY
Community Legacy

Maintained as a free public wilderness space for environmental education and quiet outdoor walks.

Essential Visitor FAQs

🕒 Operating Hours

Trails are open daily from sunrise to sunset. The Nature Center opens selectively on weekends and during special community events.

🅿️ Parking & Fees

Admission is 100% free. Ample free parking is available in the main lot located right off S. Aroma Drive.

🐕 Dog Policy

Leashed dogs are welcomed on all trails. Visitors are required to keep pets on leash and clean up waste.

👟 Trail Conditions

Paths are well-maintained dirt trails. Sturdy walking shoes or hiking sneakers are recommended due to light gravelly inclines.

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