Amir's Art

Amir's Garden in Griffith Park Los Angeles

03.31.2016

At 4,210 acres, Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in North America, home to a huge variety of trails, recreation, and hidden gems. Among the most inspiring of its better kept secrets is Amir’s Garden, a beautiful, heavily-shaded spot that’s literally a work of natural art. After a 1970 brushfire, Iranian immigrant and hiking enthusiast Amir Dialameh received permission from the city to voluntarily re-vegetate the area and did so almost entirely alone until he passed away in 2003. To enjoy the gorgeous, lush product of his work, hike the fire road beginning at the intersection of Mineral Wells Road and Griffith Park Drive. The 0.5-mile uphill journey to the garden is a worthwhile workout, gaining 300 feet in elevation and rewarding with views of the San Gabriel and Verdugo Mountains to the north.

A prominent sign announces the garden, as does the potpourri of exotic and native flora. Amir’s Garden contains over 60 species of trees and shrubs, like jacarandas, pines, geraniums, rose bushes, and a multitude of succulents. Before heading back the way you came (or extending your hike along the same fire road), take a moment to remember Amir’s quote: In the land of the free, plant a tree.

amirsgarden1-image-jpeg

To get to the fire road that leads to Amir’s Garden, park in the Mineral Wells Picnic Area parking lot, off of Mineral Wells Rd., or anywhere along the road.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

    View
  2. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View

  4. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

    View

  2. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

    View
  3. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

    View

  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View