Return to Ferndell

A few years back I did a post on a little-known spot in Griffith Park called Ferndell, which, depending upon where you look, is also referred to as two words, Fern Dell. I usually go with the official signage, seen below from my last journey there in 2014. And yet, the official website calls it “Fern Dell.” These are the things that keep me up at night.

It is a magical somewhat hidden spot near the entrance that provides guests with some shade and a verdant journey that transports you to a tropical paradise. Am I still in L.A.? I love the vintage 1950 image of the happy lady relaxing, yet still decked out in high heels.

From the official website:

More than 50 fern species thrive among select tropical plants and flowers along this shady, winding trail. Located near the Western Canyon entrance.

I really need to go back.

See more photos at my main website.

Ferndell

On my last trip to Hollywood, Willis was in tow. I asked a friend for recommendations of places to go that would be dog-friendly, and he recommended Ferndell at Griffith Park. Huh? What the hell is that? I looked it up and learned that it was a shaded walking path that I had driven by zillions of times without paying it any attention.

This little slice of paradise has been there since 1914 when Griffith Park Superintendent Frank Shearer figured out that the area's micro-climate could support semi-tropical species and began adding ferns to the canyon. To encourage visitors, paths, benches, terraced pools, bridges, and faux bois elements were added. Today's first shot is from a vintage postcard. Dig the heavy message typed on the back!



The entry sign:



It was fairly warm the weekend we visited, so this lush shaded area was an oasis with its verdant plants and abundant water features.





Next time you go to Griffith Park, stop at this beautiful little spot before you jet on up to the Observatory!



See more Daveland Ferndell photos at my main website.