Did you know that Santa Clarita ranks among the Top 50 cities in the United States on the 2024 ParkScore Index? This recognition highlights our city’s commitment to providing exceptional parks and outdoor spaces for everyone in our community.

I am proud that since incorporation, we have added another 30 new parks, and created a comprehensive trail network. Whether you are enjoying lunch under the gazebo at Skyline Ranch Park or taking in the views of the rolling mountains at the top of Nadeau Trail in the Golden Valley Open Space, unique outdoor places like these are what makes our community so special.

If you’re looking to explore the outdoors with family and friends, check out the city’s Community Hike program. Each month, our Outdoor Recreation team leads guided hikes through Santa Clarita’s vast open spaces. Recently, participants hiked the Central Park trailhead, where they reached the top of the hill and took part in a self-defense workshop. With 360-degree views of Santa Clarita, this location is perfect for group activities that engage both body and mind.

Next month’s Community Hike takes place on Friday, March 21 at 6 p.m., at Central Park, but this time, attendees will collaborate on a mural at the summit. It’s the perfect way to stay active, be creative and connect with others in the community. These hikes are free and are family-friendly. For an entire list of monthly community hikes, visit SantaClarita.gov/OutdoorRecreation.

Looking to try a new trail but not sure what to expect? We’ve made it easier than ever. Santa Clarita’s trails are now available on the AllTrails app, giving residents and visitors access to maps, photos, trail lengths and difficulty ratings—all from the convenience of their phone. While you’re on the trail, you can also submit your own photos. Be sure to tag us on social media by using the hashtag, #HikeSantaClarita to be featured. Simply download the app on the Apple Store or Google Play and start exploring.

For families with young readers, Trail Tales at Duane R. Harte Park offers a unique way to enjoy the outdoors. This interactive experience allows visitors to read a children’s storybook, page by page, as they stroll along the trail. Next month, the tale will feature the city’s mascot, Sammy Clarita in his children’s book, They Call it Puppy Love.

Ever wondered what it takes to keep Santa Clarita’s parks and open spaces thriving? This month, I sat down with Jerrid McKenna, the city’s Director of Neighborhood Services, to discuss how his team oversees the creation, maintenance and management of our 38 parks and thousands of acres of open space. From exciting new park developments like William S. Hart Park and Via Princessa Park to preserving our hiking trails, there’s a lot happening behind the scenes. To dive deeper into this topic, check out Santa Clarita Voices, our new podcast, streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita.gov.