Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Crescenta Valley

The Crescenta Valley is a small inland valley in northwestern , comprising the western portion of the broader Crescenta-Cañada Valley and covering approximately 3.45 square miles. It lies between the to the north and northeast, the and San Rafael Hills to the southwest, and extends as a 7-mile bajada—a gently sloping formed by sediment from the mountains. The valley is bisected by the (Interstate 210) and is bordered by the city of Glendale to the south and west, La Cañada Flintridge to the east, and the to the north. Historically, the Crescenta Valley was part of the traditional lands of the Tongva (also known as Gabrieleño) people, whose presence was disrupted by Spanish colonization beginning in 1772, leading to relocation and significant population decline due to European diseases. In the late 18th and 19th centuries, much of the area fell within Spanish and Mexican land grants, including the vast Rancho San Rafael (36,403 acres, granted in 1784 to José María Verdugo) and the smaller Rancho La Cañada (5,832 acres, granted in 1843 to Ygnacio Coronel and later subdivided). Anglo-American settlement accelerated in the 1880s with subdivisions by pioneers like Adolphus Williams, Dr. Jacob Lanterman, and Dr. Benjamin Briggs, who platted the community of La Crescenta in 1884 (renamed from Crescenta in 1887); Montrose followed in 1913 as a commercial hub. The valley experienced rapid post-World War II growth, spurred by water district formations in 1950 and the completion of the Foothill Freeway in the 1970s, though it was also marked by tragedies like the devastating 1934 flash flood that killed up to 40 residents. Today, the area includes unincorporated communities within the La Crescenta-Montrose census-designated place (CDP), with notable historic sites such as St. Luke's of the Mountains Episcopal Church (built 1924) and the Le Mesnager Barn (1911). As of the 2020 U.S. Census, the La Crescenta-Montrose CDP had a population of 19,997, with a density of about 5,800 per square mile, reflecting its suburban character as a residential enclave in the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. Land use is predominantly single-family residential (zoned R-1), with commercial corridors along Foothill Boulevard (zoned C-2 and C-3) and significant open space including Deukmejian Wilderness Park and the Rosemont Preserve, which preserve chaparral, sage scrub, and riparian habitats. Demographically, the area features a median household income of $119,775 (2023 estimates) and an age distribution with 24.1% under 18 and 20.8% over 65, alongside a notable Korean American community (13% of households speaking Korean at home). The valley is served by the Crescenta Valley Union School District and benefits from proximity to major employment centers in Glendale, Pasadena, and downtown Los Angeles.

Geography and Environment

Location and Boundaries

Crescenta Valley is situated in County, , at approximately 34°13′N 118°14′W. It encompasses an area of approximately 3.45 square miles, primarily consisting of alluvial plains and foothills. The valley's boundaries are defined by natural and municipal features: to the north by the within the , to the south by the city of Glendale, to the east by La Cañada Flintridge, and to the west by the city of Glendale. This positioning places Crescenta Valley roughly 15 miles northeast of , facilitating its integration into the broader metropolitan region while maintaining a semi-rural character amid surrounding urban development. Administratively, much of Crescenta Valley remains unincorporated territory supervised by Los Angeles County, particularly areas like La Crescenta-Montrose, though portions fall within the city limits of , influencing local governance and services such as zoning and utilities.

Topography and Geology

Crescenta Valley is an alluvial valley formed by sedimentary deposits from streams originating in the surrounding mountains, positioned between the to the north and the to the south. The valley floor primarily consists of Quaternary-age alluvial materials, including silty sands, pebbles, and cobbles up to 47 feet thick in lower areas, deposited over time by erosional processes from the uplifted . The underlying geology features crystalline metamorphic and igneous basement rocks in the bordering mountains, which have been uplifted since the middle epoch. The terrain transitions from flat valley plains to rolling foothills, with the Big Tujunga Wash acting as the principal drainage feature, conveying runoff from the through the valley toward the and contributing to sediment accumulation. Notable landmarks include the Deukmejian Wilderness area within the , encompassing 709 acres of rugged foothill terrain with elevations ranging from 2,159 feet at the entrance to 4,775 feet in higher sections. The valley's location in a seismically active region exposes it to hazards from nearby faults, including the approximately 8 miles to the east, a potentially active left-lateral reverse fault capable of producing moderate earthquakes. Additionally, the broader tectonic setting influenced by the system, about 30 miles to the north, amplifies ground shaking risks across the area. The , magnitude 6.6 on the nearby San Fernando Fault Zone—a fault within the system—epicentered roughly 5 miles northwest of the valley, resulted in significant local impacts including landslides in foothill areas of Crescenta Valley, damage to infrastructure, and evacuation concerns near dams. Peak ground accelerations from potential events on proximate faults like the Verdugo or could reach 0.85g, though the valley floor shows low susceptibility to or surface rupture. Vegetation across Crescenta Valley is predominantly in the foothill zones, featuring fire-adapted shrubs such as chamise and that thrive on steep, well-drained slopes of the Verdugo and . Sage scrub communities intermingle in drier exposures, supporting drought-tolerant species like California sagebrush. Along washes and canyons, riparian zones provide higher moisture and diversity, with streamside woodlands including big-cone Douglas-fir, coast live oak, and sycamore in areas like Dunsmore and Flint Canyons, forming narrow corridors that enhance habitat connectivity amid the surrounding scrub.

Climate and Weather Patterns

Crescenta Valley experiences a classified as warm-summer Mediterranean (Köppen Csb), characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Average annual rainfall totals approximately 20 inches, with the majority—about 70%—occurring between and , when monthly can reach 3-5 inches during peak wet periods. Temperatures typically range from winter lows of 40-50°F to summer highs of 85-95°F, with the hot season from to featuring clear skies and minimal humidity, while the cooler season from to brings partly cloudy conditions and occasional frost. The valley's microclimate is shaped by its position amid the San Gabriel and , which channel airflow and create variations in temperature and moisture compared to coastal . These topographic features amplify the effects of occasional —strong, dry northeasterly gusts that descend from the interior deserts—often reaching speeds of 20-50 mph in fall and winter, lowering humidity to 10-20% and significantly elevating risk. Such events exacerbate the dry summer conditions, contributing to a heightened susceptibility to brushfires in the region's ecosystems, with recent trends showing increased frequency due to as of 2025. Notable weather-related events include the November 1933 Mt. Lukens fire, which burned adjacent slopes and denuded vegetation, leading to altered local precipitation patterns and intensified flooding during the subsequent 1934 New Year's that dumped over 6 inches of rain in hours. Similarly, the 2009 Station Fire, ignited amid hot, low-humidity conditions, generated its own convective weather system with pyrocumulus clouds and localized winds up to 47 mph, temporarily disrupting regional air patterns and increasing smoke-induced haze over Crescenta Valley for weeks.

History

Indigenous and Early Settlement

The Crescenta Valley was originally inhabited by the people, also known as the Gabrielino or , who considered the region part of their broader territory called Tovaangar, encompassing much of the . Local Tongva villages, such as Wiqanga in the Crescenta Valley and the nearby Tujunga village along the Big Tujunga River, served as central hubs for communities that relied on hunting small game, gathering acorns and other wild plants, and fishing in streams and rivers. These semi-nomadic groups maintained a sustainable lifestyle through resource stewardship and extensive trade networks, with the valley's oak groves and riparian areas providing essential food sources like acorn mush, a dietary staple processed via and grinding. Spanish colonization disrupted this way of life beginning in the late , as missions relocated many Tongva to sites like Mission San Gabriel, compounded by European-introduced diseases that decimated populations. During the Spanish colonial period, the Crescenta Valley formed part of the expansive Rancho San Rafael, a 36,403-acre awarded in 1784 to Corporal José María Verdugo, a retired soldier at the Presidio of San Gabriel, for cattle ranching and farming. Verdugo, who had accompanied the in 1769, established operations on the rancho, which stretched from present-day Burbank through Glendale and into the Crescenta Valley, utilizing the area's fertile lands and water sources for livestock. Upon Verdugo's death in 1831, the property passed to his children, Julio and Catalina, under the Spanish system of communal land use tied to the missions. With Mexico's in 1821, the Crescenta Valley became part of , a northern province with sparse European settlement focused on ranching rather than dense population. The of missions in 1833–1834 redistributed mission lands, but the Verdugo family's holdings remained largely intact amid minimal development in the valley, which continued as grazing land with few additional settlers. In 1843, Mexican authorities granted a portion of the area—approximately 5,832 acres—as the separate Rancho La Cañada to Ygnacio Coronel, described as unoccupied valley land, though the Verdugos contested the claim due to overlapping boundaries with their earlier rancho. The Mexican-American War concluded with the in 1848, ceding , including the Crescenta Valley, to the and formally establishing American sovereignty over the region. This transition facilitated the entry of early Anglo-American interests, as land titles were confirmed under U.S. law, leading to sales of rancho portions to American buyers in the 1850s and paving the way for initial non-Hispanic settlement.

19th-Century Development

Following the in 1848, which ended the Mexican-American War and transferred to the , the vast Rancho La Cañada—originally granted in 1843 to Ygnacio Coronel—underwent significant changes in . In 1852, the rancho was sold to and Benjamin Hayes for $700, marking the beginning of its fragmentation from a single large Mexican into smaller American-owned parcels suitable for individual settlement. By 1875, Adolphus Williams and Dr. Jacob Lanterman acquired the property for $10,000 and initiated its subdivision into 46 lots, a process completed by 1881, which facilitated sales to settlers and transformed the expansive ranch into a patchwork of homesteads across the Crescenta Valley. A pivotal figure in this era was Dr. Benjamin Briggs, a physician from Crawfordsville, Indiana, who arrived in 1882 seeking a salubrious climate for treating lung ailments. Briggs purchased lots west of Pickens Wash and, in 1884, platted the Crescenta Cañada tract with parallelogram-shaped 10-acre lots designed for agricultural use, envisioning the area as a health resort amid productive farmland. Early settlers like Theodore Pickens, who homesteaded in 1871, and others numbering around 10 by 1875, established the valley's initial American presence through such land divisions. These efforts laid the groundwork for diversified farming, including the planting of the first grape cuttings in 1884—sourced from Persia by a missionary—and the development of orchards and vineyards that capitalized on the valley's fertile soil and mild climate. Wheat farming also emerged as a staple crop in the mid- to late 1800s, supporting self-sufficient homesteads. Infrastructure improvements in the 1870s enhanced connectivity, with rudimentary roads developed through Verdugo Canyon providing essential links for settlers to transport goods to , easing isolation and spurring economic activity. A key milestone came in 1887 with the establishment of the La Crescenta post office, which prompted the renaming of Briggs's townsite from "Crescenta" to "La Crescenta" to distinguish it from , and solidified the area's identity as a burgeoning . By the late , these developments fostered an economic base centered on groves, which thrived in the valley's , and , which became a primary industry alongside fruit cultivation, sustaining local prosperity into the early 1900s.

20th-Century Growth and Modern Era

The early 20th century marked a period of accelerated residential expansion in Crescenta Valley, facilitated by improved transportation infrastructure. In 1914, the Glendale and Montrose Railway, operating in joint agreement with the Pacific Electric Railway, constructed a double-track line along East Broadway, enabling through service from Los Angeles to La Crescenta by August 1916. This connection supported daily commutes for residents and students attending schools in Glendale, transforming the semi-rural area into a more accessible suburb despite economic challenges that limited long-term rail viability, leading to abandonment by 1930 and replacement with bus service. The name "Crescenta Valley" reflected the area's distinctive crescent-shaped topography between the San Gabriel Mountains and Verdugo Hills, a term popularized during this era of subdivision and lot sales following its initial coining by settler Benjamin B. Briggs in the 1880s based on visible mountain formations. A tragic event in the valley's history occurred on January 1, 1934, when a catastrophic swept through La Crescenta, triggered by heavy rains following wildfires. The flood killed 29 to 40 residents, destroyed dozens of homes, and left hundreds homeless, prompting the construction of channels and debris basins by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to mitigate future risks. Following , Crescenta Valley experienced a significant population boom as agricultural lands gave way to developments, integrating the region into suburbia. The area's population grew from approximately 2,000 residents in 1940 to over 20,000 by 1970, driven by demand from workers in the burgeoning industry centered in nearby Burbank, where companies like employed thousands in aircraft production. This surge was supported by resolutions to earlier water shortages, including the 1950 formation of the Crescenta Valley County Water District, which ensured reliable supply for expanding communities. The completion of the (SR 210) in the early 1970s further enhanced connectivity, solidifying suburban growth while preserving much of the valley's foothill character. In the , Crescenta Valley has navigated and community evolution while remaining an within Los Angeles County. The , a magnitude 6.7 event, inflicted structural damage to homes and infrastructure in La Crescenta and , contributing to the disaster's overall $20–40 billion in regional losses and prompting seismic and programs funded by federal grants. The 2009 Station Fire, which scorched over 160,000 acres in the , threatened evacuations in La Crescenta and led to enhanced wildfire mitigation, including vegetation clearing, defensible space requirements, and community education initiatives by local fire departments to reduce future risks. The 2020 burned 115,796 acres in the , prompting evacuation warnings for La Crescenta- and nearby areas, destroying over 85 structures regionally, and resulting in major legal settlements, including $82.5 million from in 2025 to cover costs and damages. Recent decades have seen debates over potential incorporation for La Crescenta- to gain local governance autonomy, though efforts have historically stalled due to concerns over taxes and services, maintaining the as of the . Meanwhile, rising property values and infill development reflect broader trends in the , balancing growth with efforts to mitigate environmental hazards like wildfires.

Communities and Demographics

Major Communities

La Crescenta forms the unincorporated residential core of Crescenta Valley, featuring a grid-patterned layout oriented diagonally to Interstate 210 and a historic commercial corridor along Foothill Boulevard that connects residential neighborhoods in La Crescenta, Glendale, and La Cañada Flintridge. This area emphasizes single-family housing, with 76.5% of its 7,375 units being detached homes, far exceeding the Los Angeles County average of 54.6%. The combined La Crescenta-Montrose , encompassing both La Crescenta and adjacent , has a population of approximately 20,200. Montrose, situated south of Interstate 210 at the base of the , serves as the valley's primary commercial hub, distinguished by the Montrose Shopping Park—a three-block pedestrian-oriented on Honolulu Avenue lined with mom-and-pop shops in buildings constructed during the boom. Originally a planned subdivision from the early , Montrose saw rapid business growth in that decade, including pharmacies, hotels, theaters, banks, and retail stores that laid the foundation for its enduring small-town commercial character. Beyond these cores, Crescenta Valley includes incorporated portions within Glendale, such as Sparr Heights, a quaint, neighborhood bordered by Broadview Drive, Ocean View Boulevard, and La Crescenta Avenue, noted for its well-kept homes, community center, and suburban accessibility. Unincorporated enclaves like Briggs Terrace offer historic residential appeal, named after early settler Dr. and originally platted in the late 1800s as part of 10-acre lots in the Crescenta Cañada tract, now featuring hillside homes with scenic views of the . Other small unincorporated zones, including Verdugo City, contribute to the valley's diverse patchwork of communities served by local utilities and planning efforts. The Crescenta Valley Town Council acts as an advisory body to the County , advocating for the unincorporated areas through democratically elected representatives who address local issues like and community events. Established in , the council comprises nine voting members serving three-year terms and three alternates, fostering resident engagement in governance.

Population and Ethnic Composition

The Crescenta Valley, a suburban region in , has an estimated population of approximately 35,000-40,000 residents, with ZIP codes 91214 (31,097) and 91020 (8,439) covering the broader area including unincorporated and Glendale portions with some overlap. The La Crescenta-Montrose CDP alone recorded 19,997 residents in the 2020 U.S. Census (19,940 as of 2023 estimates), representing the core unincorporated portion of the valley. Between 2010 and 2020, the population in the La Crescenta-Montrose CDP grew by 1.7%, from 19,653 to 19,997, indicating steady but modest expansion amid broader regional suburban stabilization, with continued growth to 20,202 projected for 2025. Ethnically, the valley exhibits notable diversity, particularly in the La Crescenta-Montrose CDP, where the 2020 Census reported residents at 52.3%, Asian at 28.2% (with forming a substantial portion, comprising approximately 19% of the total ), or at 13.5%, and other groups including two or more races at 5.4%. The category includes a significant Armenian American community, with ancestry rates ranging from 4% to 9% across local tracts, reflecting historical immigration patterns from . This composition aligns with trends in the broader 91214 area, where residents account for 56.6% and Asian for 27.7%, underscoring the valley's appeal to both European-descent and Asian immigrant families. Age demographics highlight a mature community, with a median age of 41.7 years in La Crescenta-Montrose and families making up 70% of the 7,089 households, many with children under 18 comprising 21.7% of the . This family-oriented structure supports the valley's suburban character, with similar patterns observed in the 91214 area where the median age is 43.1. in the La Crescenta-Montrose CDP is 5,833 residents per over 3.43 s. Since the , the area has seen an influx of professionals commuting to , bolstering household stability and contributing to gradual growth in family units.

Housing and Socioeconomics

The Crescenta Valley features a predominantly single-family residential stock, with median home values reflecting its desirability within the metropolitan area. In La Crescenta-Montrose, the core community of the valley, the median property value stood at $1.15 million in 2023, marking a 5.51% increase from the previous year and approximately 3.79 times the national average. Approximately 58.3% of units in La Crescenta-Montrose are owner-occupied, contributing to stable, long-term residency patterns. Socioeconomic indicators highlight the valley's relative prosperity and educational focus. The median household income in La Crescenta-Montrose reached $119,775 in 2023, up 3.49% from 2022, with a poverty rate of 5.84%—below both and national averages. Educational attainment is notably strong, with 56.5% of residents aged 25 and older in La Crescenta-Montrose holding a or higher, fostering family-oriented neighborhoods characterized by community events, parks, and low-density suburban layouts. Despite these strengths, affordability remains a key challenge amid broader growth pressures. High property values have strained accessibility for younger families and first-time buyers, prompting increased development of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as a strategy. Local maps indicate a growing number of ADUs under construction or approval in the valley, supported by state incentives to boost supply without altering .

Economy and Infrastructure

Employment and Businesses

The economy of Crescenta Valley, encompassing areas like La Crescenta-Montrose and La Cañada Flintridge, is characterized by a service-oriented job market, with significant commuting to nearby urban centers for specialized roles. In 2023, the total employed population stood at 9,580, reflecting a 1.18% growth from the previous year. The primary sectors include health care and social assistance, employing 1,466 people (15.3%), educational services with 1,366 workers (14.3%), and professional, scientific, and technical services accounting for 1,321 individuals (13.8%). Many residents commute to Los Angeles or Burbank for opportunities in technology and aerospace, bolstered by the proximity of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in La Cañada Flintridge, which supports thousands of engineering and research positions in the region. Overall, approximately 90.6% of the workforce engages in white-collar occupations, such as management, office support, and education. Local commercial activity centers on retail and , particularly in the Shopping Park district, a pedestrian-friendly area established in 1968 that features boutiques, restaurants, and specialty shops promoting community-oriented business. This retail hub, along with scattered service firms, contributes to the valley's economy by serving residents and visitors, though it represents a smaller share compared to commuting-based employment. The presence of JPL further influences local hiring in engineering and technical fields, drawing skilled professionals to the area and fostering ancillary services like consulting and support roles. The region's unemployment rate was 7.0% as of August 2025 preliminary data, with a labor force of 10,200 and 9,500 employed, indicating a stable but commuter-dependent market. Economically, Crescenta Valley has evolved from an agricultural base in the early 20th century—featuring orchards, vineyards, and crop storage facilities like the 1911 Le Mesnager Barn—to a post-1960s suburban service economy driven by post-World War II housing developments, infrastructure improvements such as the Crescenta Valley Water District, and the 1970s opening of the 210 Freeway, which integrated the area into the broader Los Angeles economic network. This shift emphasized professional and retail sectors over farming, aligning with regional urbanization trends.

Transportation and Utilities

Crescenta Valley's transportation network centers on key roadways that connect its communities to the , Pasadena, and the . Foothill Boulevard functions as the primary arterial route, serving as a connector to the (State Route 118) and facilitating east-west travel through La Crescenta and La Cañada Flintridge toward Pasadena. The (State Route 2), originating in La Cañada Flintridge, offers a vital link for mountain access, extending 66 miles northward through the with scenic overlooks and recreational entry points. These routes support daily commuting and regional connectivity, though their alignment through foothill terrain contributes to occasional disruptions from geological events. Public transit options emphasize bus services, as the valley lacks internal rail infrastructure but benefits from proximity to broader Los Angeles systems. The Glendale Beeline operates 12 fixed routes covering La Crescenta, Montrose, and La Cañada Flintridge, linking residents to Glendale's commercial hubs and transfer points for services. bus lines, including routes 90 and 94, provide connections from the valley to and Glendale, with service intervals varying by time of day. Nearby A Line stations in Pasadena, accessible via these buses, enable further travel to East Los Angeles and beyond, though direct rail within the valley remains unavailable. Essential utilities ensure reliable service amid the area's suburban demands. The Crescenta Valley Water District supplies potable water to approximately 8,000 service connections serving about 35,000 residents, sourcing from the local Verdugo Basin and imported supplies delivered through the Water District of via the Foothill Municipal Water District. Electricity distribution falls under Glendale Water & Power, which serves unincorporated portions of La Crescenta-Montrose with a focus on sustainable generation including renewables. infrastructure, including the Big Tujunga Dam managed by Los Angeles County Department of , plays a critical role by impounding stormwater and sediment upstream, thereby reducing downstream flood risks in the Crescenta Valley and adjacent Sunland-Tujunga areas. Transportation challenges in Crescenta Valley stem from high commuter volumes and environmental vulnerabilities. Traffic congestion frequently affects Foothill Boulevard, especially during rush hours, leading to delays from construction and volume spikes. The Angeles Crest Highway is particularly susceptible to landslides and rockfalls, exacerbated by winter storms and the steep, unstable slopes of the San Gabriel Mountains, prompting regular Caltrans maintenance and occasional closures. These issues, influenced by the valley's foothill topography, underscore ongoing needs for resilient infrastructure to support safe mobility.

Education and Culture

Schools and Educational Institutions

The Crescenta Valley is primarily served by the Glendale Unified School District (GUSD), which oversees public education for most K-12 students in the area, including La Crescenta and . GUSD operates several elementary, middle, and high schools within or bordering the valley, emphasizing academic excellence and extracurricular programs. The district's schools consistently rank highly in state assessments, with a focus on diverse curricula that include initiatives and arts integration. Among the elementary schools, La Crescenta Elementary School stands out as one of the oldest, originally established in 1887 at the corner of Foothill Boulevard and Dyer Street before relocating to its current site at 4343 La Crescenta Avenue. Other notable elementaries include Mountain Avenue Elementary (opened in 1967), Monte Vista Elementary (1948), and Valley View Elementary, all serving grades K-6 with enrollment capacities supporting the valley's growing families. Middle schools like provide transitional education for grades 7-8, featuring programs in core subjects alongside electives in technology and performing arts. At the high school level, (CVHS), located at 2900 Community Avenue in La Crescenta, serves grades 9-12 and was established as a in 1960 on the site of the former Clark Junior High School, which dated back to 1933. CVHS offers a broad range of courses and athletics, with an enrollment of approximately 2,600 students (as of 2024). Nearby, Anderson W. Clark Magnet High School at 4747 New York Avenue specializes in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) education, functioning as the flagship for GUSD's Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways in fields like and . Private educational options in the Crescenta Valley include Chamlian Armenian School, a K-8 institution at 4444 Lowell Avenue in La Crescenta, which integrates and culture with a rigorous academic program for approximately 700 students (as of 2024) and was named a 2025 National Blue Ribbon School. is supported by networks such as the Crescenta Valley Christian Home Educators Association (CHEA), a faith-based group providing social events, field trips, and resources for local families since the early 2000s. For , residents have convenient access to Glendale Community College's Verdugo Campus at 1500 North Verdugo Road, just a few miles away, offering associate degrees and programs. Additionally, the (Caltech) in Pasadena is approximately 9 miles from central Crescenta Valley, providing opportunities for advanced STEM studies.

Parks, Recreation, and Notable Landmarks

Crescenta Valley offers a variety of parks and recreational spaces that emphasize outdoor activities amid its foothill setting. Deukmejian Wilderness Park, spanning 709 acres in the northern extremity of Glendale overlooking the valley, provides extensive hiking opportunities through rugged terrain in the foothills. The park features miles of trails, including the challenging Crescenta View Trail, which ascends over 2,800 feet and connects to broader networks leading into the . These paths attract hikers seeking panoramic views of the and pristine wilderness areas. For community sports and family recreation, Two Strike Park serves as a local hub in La Crescenta, equipped with fields, courts recently refurbished by the LA Clippers, playgrounds, and areas. This 8-acre site is popular for youth leagues and casual play, fostering neighborhood gatherings. Similarly, Verdugo Park in the area, covering 38.68 acres, includes sports facilities like courts and soccer fields, alongside playgrounds, areas, and shaded tables under mature sycamores and oaks. Notable landmarks blend history with ; the La Crescenta Women's Clubhouse at 4004 La Crescenta Avenue, constructed in 1925 for a founded in , stands as a preserved venue for and meetings. Golf enthusiasts enjoy in nearby Burbank, an 18-hole course in the Verdugo Mountains foothills that hosts local high school teams from Crescenta Valley and offers scenic play year-round. enhance , such as the annual Crescenta Valley Show on July 4th at La Crescenta Elementary School field, drawing crowds for music, food, and displays since 1989. The Harvest Market, held Sundays on Avenue, provides fresh produce, flowers, and artisanal goods from certified farmers, supporting local agriculture and social interaction.

Notable Residents and Events

Crescenta Valley has been home or closely associated with several prominent figures in entertainment and beyond. Actor , born Marion Robert Morrison, spent his early life in the Glendale area during the , attending Glendale High School where he played football and developed his lifelong affinity for the region. The area also attracted celebrities in the early due to its sanitariums and rest homes, including actress and Gladys Baker, the mother of , who sought treatment there. The valley has played a supporting role in Southern California's since the silent era, with nearby locations used for early productions capitalizing on the area's rugged terrain. Nearby Glendale's , opened in , has evolved into a key venue for community theater, hosting local performances, musicals, and cultural events that draw residents from Crescenta Valley and foster artistic engagement. In modern times, Crescenta Valley's proximity to NASA's (JPL) in La Cañada Flintridge has spurred tech innovation, with local high school students from participating in JPL-sponsored competitions and invention challenges that promote education and collaboration on space-related projects.

References

  1. [1]
    History of the Crescenta Valley
    The Crescenta-Cañada Valley was originally part of the domain of Native Americans of the Tongva, or Kizh, people, later named Gabrieleño by the Spanish ...Missing: geography demographics
  2. [2]
    [PDF] WEST SAN GABRIEL VALLEY AREA PLAN
    The total population of this community is 19,893, with a population density of 5,766 people per square mile. Land Use Characteristics. The majority of land use ...
  3. [3]
    GPS coordinates of La Crescenta-Montrose, United States. Latitude
    La Crescenta-Montrose is a populated place in Los Angeles County, California. Part of the community is an unincorporated area and census-designated place …Missing: boundaries | Show results with:boundaries
  4. [4]
    [PDF] An Evaluation of California's Adjudicated Groundwater Basins
    Jan 10, 2015 · Crescenta Valley Water District and Cucamonga Valley Water District ... 15 square miles / 9,530 acres. Population. 51,011443. CASGEM. Medium.
  5. [5]
    Community Spotlight: La Crescenta-Montrose - LA County Planning
    The majority of the area's northern boundary directly abuts the San Gabriel Mountains and Angeles National Forest. The total population of La Crescenta-Montrose ...Missing: Valley | Show results with:Valley
  6. [6]
    Crescenta Valley Flood Control - La Cañada Flintridge CA
    “Geographically, the Crescenta Valley extends eastward from the Los Angeles City communities of Sunland and Tujunga through a portion of the City of Glendale ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  7. [7]
    La Crescenta is a scenic slice of foothills life - Los Angeles Times
    Feb 2, 2003 · With charm, canyons and a rustic feeling in many areas, it's difficult to believe La Crescenta is only 15 miles from downtown Los Angeles and close to the ...Missing: distance | Show results with:distance
  8. [8]
    None
    ### Summary of Geology and Soils for Verdugo Hill Golf Course Project
  9. [9]
    [PDF] FLOOD IN LA CANADA VALLEY CALIFORNIA
    canyons and watersheds which were burned over drain into Verdugo Canyon. Included in the Verdugo Canyon drainage are also the towns of La Crescenta and ...
  10. [10]
    Deukmejian Wilderness Park | City of Glendale, CA
    Jul 26, 2022 · The park is predominantly chaparral and sage scrub, but includes secluded streamside woodlands and scattered remnants of big-cone spruce ...
  11. [11]
    The Disaster that Helped the Nation Prepare for Future Earthquakes
    Feb 4, 2021 · The 1971 earthquake ruptured a subsection named the San Fernando Fault ... faults and other seismically induced hazards. It also continues ...
  12. [12]
    [PDF] Conservation Element - City of La Cañada Flintridge
    The City will take measures to preserve and enhance the riparian corridors and sage scrub-chaparral communities, such as through participation in the Flint Wash.
  13. [13]
    Climate of Los Angeles, California - the NOAA Institutional Repository
    "Los Angeles is noted for its moderate weather. Under the modified Köppen classification system, Los Angeles climate is categorized as Mediterranean.
  14. [14]
    La Crescenta-Montrose, California, United States, Average Monthly ...
    County: Los Angeles · State: California · Population: 20,149 · Annual Temperature Range: 43°F in December to 88°F in August · Annual Precipitation: 20 inches.Missing: Valley Köppen classification
  15. [15]
    La Crescenta-Montrose Climate, Weather By Month, Average ...
    Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 41°F to 86°F and is rarely below 34°F or above 94°F. Climate in La Crescenta-Montrose. Link.Missing: Valley Köppen classification
  16. [16]
    Wildfire Hazards Survey in the California Coastal Zone
    ... winds set the scene for disaster. Once a fire gains a foot-hold, with Santa Ana winds blowing it is virtually impossible to contain until the wind abates or ...
  17. [17]
    Santa Ana winds and predictors of wildfire progression in southern ...
    Santa Ana winds have been implicated as a major driver of large wildfires in southern California. While numerous anecdotal reports exist, there is little ...
  18. [18]
    How Los Angeles Moved Uncomfortably Close to Mountain Wildfires
    Sep 25, 2023 · The burned and balded terrain left indefensible the communities of Flintridge, La Canada, La Crescenta, Montrose, and Tujunga, and also affected ...
  19. [19]
    The Station Fire: Five Years Later - Crescenta Valley Weekly
    Aug 28, 2014 · The fire burned the second day and into the night, but this time in very steep terrain. Water dropping air ships were available via L.A. City ...Missing: patterns | Show results with:patterns
  20. [20]
    Historic Glendale | City of Glendale, CA
    The City of Glendale is divided into 34 neighborhoods which are delineated by streets, washes, and mountain ridges. Each neighborhood has a unique history and ...
  21. [21]
    City History | City of La Cañada Flintridge
    Aug 21, 2019 · In 1858 Julio Verdugo finally acquired Rancho La Cañada by trading what is now Burbank for it. Julio moved its southern boundary north up to ...
  22. [22]
    Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848) | National Archives
    Sep 20, 2022 · This treaty, signed on February 2, 1848, ended the war between the United States and Mexico. By its terms, Mexico ceded 55 percent of its territory.
  23. [23]
    Treasures of the Valley - Crescenta Valley Weekly
    Feb 29, 2024 · 1781 – City of Los Angeles founded. 1784 – Jose Maria Verdugo petitioned Governor Fages for 36,000 acres (Today's Glendale and Crescenta Valley) ...
  24. [24]
    Treasures of the Valley - Crescenta Valley Weekly
    Mar 9, 2023 · Early settlers in La Cañada made use of the lower portions of the road to go to Los Angeles down the Verdugo Canyon.” A great set of ...
  25. [25]
    [PDF] TIMEPOINTS
    It was apparent that the semi-rural Crescenta Valley could not then support the luxury of electric railway service during a period of trying economic ...
  26. [26]
    [PDF] CENSUS 01=
    ... 1970 Census Coordinator. POPULATION DIVISION. Meyer Zitter, Chief. II. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS-Many persons par- ticipated in the various activities of the. 1970 census ...
  27. [27]
    The History and Revival of Southern California's Aerospace Industry
    Jul 9, 2019 · During World War II alone, the Los Angeles area contained around two million aerospace employees and produced about 300,000 airplanes. Aircraft ...
  28. [28]
    Northridge Earthquake 30th Anniversary - LA County Fire Department
    Jan 26, 2024 · Thirty years ago, on January 17, 1994, residents of Southern California experienced a devastating 6.7 magnitude earthquake that caused major ...
  29. [29]
    Eight Years Later: Remembering the Station Fire
    Aug 31, 2017 · The Station Fire of 2009 burned across local hillsides, coming close to nearby homes and causing the evacuation of hundreds of people.
  30. [30]
    TREASURES OF THE VALLEY - Crescenta Valley Weekly
    Mar 21, 2024 · However, an incorporation merger between wealthy La Cañada and super-wealthy Flintridge was nixed when Flintridge turned up its nose at a close ...Missing: 2020s | Show results with:2020s
  31. [31]
    [PDF] APPENDIX B Historic Context Statement | LA County Planning
    LA CRESCENTA-MONTROSE. La Crescenta-Montrose is a CDP that encompasses the historically separate communities of La Crescenta and Montrose. La Crescenta, the ...
  32. [32]
    La Crescenta-Montrose - California - World Population Review
    The racial composition of La Crescenta-Montrose includes 50.25% White, 27.47% Asian, 6.37% other race, and smaller percentages for Native American, ...Missing: Valley | Show results with:Valley
  33. [33]
    Montrose offers small-town charm that production teams love
    Aug 9, 2018 · Its three-block “shopping park” on Honolulu Avenue, a quaint stretch of mom and pop shops, has buildings that date to the 1920s, tree-lined ...
  34. [34]
    History of Montrose
    For decades, there have been stories told about the origins of Montrose that have turned out to be false. When Robert Newcombe was researching his photo ...Missing: incorporation | Show results with:incorporation
  35. [35]
    Sparr Heights Homes - Glendale
    Sparr Heights is bordered by Broadview Drive on the north, Ocean View Blvd on the east and La Crescenta Ave on the southwest. It is easily accessible off the ...
  36. [36]
    Popular La Crescenta Neighborhoods
    Briggs Terrace. In 1871, Colonel Theodore Pickens, one of the first settlers in the Crescenta Valley, relocated to Briggs Terrace. · Crescenta Highlands. (also ...
  37. [37]
    [PDF] Crescenta Valley Water District - Large Meter Advanced Metering ...
    unincorporated communities of La Crescenta, Montrose, and Verdugo City as well as a small portion of the City of Glendale and City of La Canada-Flintridge.
  38. [38]
    Crescenta Valley Town Council |
    The Crescenta Valley Town Council (CVTC) is composed of twelve, democratically-elected Council members, nine of whom serve three-year terms upon installation.Council Members · Aram Ordubegian · Dede Mueller · General Meeting VideosMissing: 2020s | Show results with:2020s
  39. [39]
    Town Council candidates focus on development - Los Angeles Times
    The Crescenta Valley Town Council, established in 1989, consists of nine permanent voting members who serve three-year terms, and three alternates who serve ...
  40. [40]
    La Crescenta-Montrose, CA - Profile data - Census Reporter
    Census data for La Crescenta-Montrose, CA (pop. 19940), including age, race, sex, income, poverty, marital status, education and more.Missing: 1940 1970
  41. [41]
    ZIP Code 91214 Map, Demographics, More for La Crescenta, CA
    4900 Maryland Ave. La Crescenta, CA 91214. Grade Level: Primary/Elementary District: Glendale Unified School District. Crescenta Valley High School 2900 ...
  42. [42]
    Crescenta Highlands - Glendale, CA - Niche
    Crescenta Highlands is a neighborhood in Glendale, California with a population of 17,718. Crescenta Highlands is in Los Angeles County and is one of the ...
  43. [43]
    91214 Zip Code (Glendale, CA) Detailed Profile - City-Data.com
    91214 Zip Code (Glendale, CA) Detailed Profile ; California: 0.7% ($5,114) ; Males: 15,085, (47.9%) ; Males: 15,085 ; Females: 16,398, (52.1%) ; Females: 16,398 ...
  44. [44]
    A map of La Crescenta-Montrose's Population by Race - Census Dots
    La Crescenta-Montrose, California had a population of 19,997 in 2020. It was 52.3% White, 0.7% Black, 28.2% Asian, 13.5% Hispanic, 0.6% Native American/Other, ...Missing: Valley | Show results with:Valley<|control11|><|separator|>
  45. [45]
    California Korean Population Percentage City Rank - USA.com
    California Korean Population Percentage City Rank ; 1. 20.2%, La Crescenta-Montrose, CA / 19,653 ; 2. 16.6%, La Palma, CA / 15,568 ; 3. 14.8%, Cerritos, ...
  46. [46]
    Ancestry in La Crescenta-Montrose, California (Unincorporated Place)
    Map of Ancestry by Tract in La Crescenta-Montrose · Armenian · German · English · Irish · Italian · American · Scottish · French ...Missing: composition | Show results with:composition
  47. [47]
    ZIP Code 91214 Info, Map, Demographics for La Crescenta, CA
    2020 Population: 31,097Source: Census DHC. 2023 ACS Population Estimate ... Simple chart showing male vs female share of the population in ZIP Code 91214.
  48. [48]
    La Crescenta - Montrose, CA Demographics: Population, Income ...
    LA Crescenta - Montrose is home to 17,105 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.8% of LA Crescenta - Montrose locals are male, ...
  49. [49]
  50. [50]
    La Crescenta-Montrose, CA | Data USA
    The 5 largest ethnic groups in La Crescenta-Montrose, CA are White (Non-Hispanic) (47%), Asian (Non-Hispanic) (27.2%), Two Races Excluding Other, & Three or ...Missing: geography history
  51. [51]
    La Cañada Flintridge, CA | Data USA
    In 2023, La Cañada Flintridge, CA had a population of 20.1k people with a median age of 45.2 and a median household income of $221,451.
  52. [52]
    La Crescenta-Montrose, California (CA 91214) profile - City-Data.com
    Ancestries: Armenian (12.4%), Irish (3.9%), English (3.7%), German (3.2%), Romanian (1.8%), Scottish (1.7%). Current Local Time: ...
  53. [53]
    VIEWS FROM THE VALLEY - Crescenta Valley Weekly
    Oct 5, 2023 · Advocates for slow growth and modest-sized development are at odds with the “build, baby, build” voices that are coming from housing officials ...Missing: gentrification | Show results with:gentrification
  54. [54]
    Montrose Shopping Park
    The Montrose Shopping Park Association was formed in 1968 for the primary purpose of representing the interests of the then newly-created Montrose Shopping ...Businesses · MSPA · Contacts · Montrose History
  55. [55]
    [PDF] The Histor y of JPL - Historical Society of Crescenta Valley
    NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, still managed by Caltech, is located in part on the eastern edge of La Canada-Flintridge, and with.
  56. [56]
    Labor Force & Unemployment Los Angeles County
    Labor force data reflect the March 2024 annual revision (or benchmark) and Census 2023 population controls at the state level. Source: California Employment ...
  57. [57]
    Median project compounds traffic congestion on Foothill in La ...
    Sep 25, 2018 · Construction of a decade-planned median project on a stretch of Foothill Boulevard in La Crescenta has whittled the street down to one lane ...
  58. [58]
    Angeles Crest Highway
    The scenic byway ascends up and winds its way through 66 miles of the Angeles National Forest, through chaparral, and montane forest habitats.
  59. [59]
    Beeline Bus | City of Glendale, CA - Home Transportation
    Glendale Beeline operates twelve fixed routes serving the cities of Glendale and La Cañada Flintridge and the unincorporated areas of La Crescenta and Montrose.Transit Projects · Beeline Timetables & Route... · Cash Fares & PassesMissing: Valley | Show results with:Valley
  60. [60]
    [PDF] bus-rail-system-detail.pdf - LA Metro
    Locations include Downtown Los Angeles, Whittier Narrows, Frank G Bonelli Regional Park, Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, and Santa Anita Park.
  61. [61]
    Water Supply - Crescenta Valley Water District
    CVWD pumps groundwater from the Verdugo Basin. The basin is located beneath CVWD's service area, about 200 feet below the ground's surface.
  62. [62]
    La Crescenta-Montrose, California Utility Services & New Resident ...
    Glendale Water and Power provides electricity and water services to residents in Glendale and parts of La Crescenta-Montrose. They are committed to delivering ...
  63. [63]
    Stormwater Engineering Division: Big Tujunga Dam Sediment Removal
    ### Role of Big Tujunga Dam in Flood Control for Crescenta Valley or Nearby Areas
  64. [64]
    Angeles National Forest Emergency Highway Repairs Complete
    Relentless storms from the winter of 2022/2023 caused excessive damage to SR-2 that included sections of collapsed roadway, slope failure, rockslides, drainage, ...
  65. [65]
    [PDF] Safety Element - City of La Cañada Flintridge
    The City's plan is to mitigate wildfire hazards to the extent possible and feasible through policies, regulation, public education and outreach, and ...
  66. [66]
    Glendale Unified School District - Home
    Enroll in GUSD Schools, Child Care, Work for GUSD, Watch Board of Education Meetings, Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP), Parent Connection Portal.Calendar · La Crescenta Elementary School · Balboa Elementary School · Schools
  67. [67]
    La Crescenta Elementary - School Directory Details (CA Dept of ...
    Jul 7, 2025 · Open Date, July 1, 1980. School Type, Elementary Schools (Public). Educational Program Type, Traditional. Low Grade, K. High Grade, 6. Public ...Missing: history | Show results with:history
  68. [68]
    History and Traditions - Mountain Avenue Elementary School
    La Crescenta Elementary School · Abraham Lincoln Elementary School · Horace Mann ... On September 11, 1967, the school opened with an enrollment of 606 students.
  69. [69]
    Crescenta Valley High - School Directory Details (CA Dept of ...
    Open Date, July 1, 1980. School Type, High Schools (Public). Educational Program Type, Traditional. Low Grade, 9. High Grade, 12. Public School, Yes. Charter ...
  70. [70]
    A Brief History of CV's Schools - Crescenta Valley Weekly
    Feb 11, 2021 · La Crescenta Elementary was built in 1886, Montrose in 1923, Clark Junior High/CV High in 1933, and Monte Vista in 1948. No new schools since ...
  71. [71]
    CA Distinguished School - Anderson W. Clark Magnet High School
    Clark is a STEAM school because of its emphasis on science, technology, engineering, the digital arts, and mathematics.
  72. [72]
    Crescenta Valley CHEA
    Crescenta Valley CHEA is a Christian homeschooling support group in Los Angeles, providing opportunities for families to meet other Christian homeschoolers.
  73. [73]
    Main Campus | Glendale Community College
    The main campus of Glendale Community College (GCC) is located at 59th Ave and Olive Ave in Glendale, AZ. GCC serves the West and NW Valley.College Police · North Campus · Enrollment Center · Center for Learning
  74. [74]
    Driving Distance from La Crescenta, CA to Pasadena, CA - Travelmath
    The total driving distance from La Crescenta, CA to Pasadena, CA is 9 miles or 14 kilometers. Your trip begins in La Crescenta, California. It ends in Pasadena, ...Missing: Valley | Show results with:Valley
  75. [75]
    Crescenta View Trail, California - 910 Reviews, Map - AllTrails
    Rating 4.6 (910) The trail is fairly steep at points, so some hikers may choose to bring trekking poles along. It is not recommended on a hot day since there is very little ...Missing: system | Show results with:system
  76. [76]
    Hike Mt Lukens From Deukmejian Wilderness Park - HikingGuy
    Jul 20, 2018 · It's a tough 10 mile loop with almost 3,000 feet of total ascent, and you're rewarded with great views and pristine wilderness, all within the ...
  77. [77]
    Two Strike County Park – Parks & Recreation
    5107 Rosemont Ave. ... This beautiful park is a favorite with La Crescenta residents. It has plenty of green space for children to run around and it is a very ...
  78. [78]
    Thank you, LA Clippers - Crescenta Valley Weekly
    Feb 20, 2025 · The newly resurfaced basketball court at Two Strike Park is getting a lot of use. The resurfacing and repairs are thanks to the generosity of the LA Clippers.
  79. [79]
    TWO STRIKE PARK - Updated November 2025 - Yelp
    Rating 4.7 (25) Two Strike County Park is a great little spot with basketball courts, jungle gyms (for young and older children), picnic tables, and a baseball/softball field.
  80. [80]
    Verdugo Park North Master Plan | City of Glendale, CA
    Verdugo Park is a 38.68-acre park which contains a large grove of mature sycamore trees, numerous oaks, and a young stand of redwoods.
  81. [81]
  82. [82]
    HISTORY - La Crescenta Woman's Club
    In 1911, when the Crescenta Valley was little more than a village, a group of women (the Crescenta Club) gathered for the purpose of forming an organization ...
  83. [83]
    Golf Course - DeBell Golf Club
    DeBell Golf Club features an 18 hole regulation golf course, a 9 hole Par-3 golf course and a 9 hole disc golf course.Missing: Crescenta | Show results with:Crescenta
  84. [84]
    History - CV Fireworks
    The fireworks show started in 1989, had a financial crisis in 1992, and later worked with NBC and Fireworks America.
  85. [85]
    Montrose Harvest Market - Essential Grocery Outlet, Fresh Harvest
    The Montrose Harvest Market is a traditional farmers market, offering the best produce and flowers from certified Southern California. Sunday 8AM – 1PM.Missing: Valley | Show results with:Valley
  86. [86]
    John Wayne Presentation - Glendale - Los Angeles Times
    Nov 17, 2006 · Most local residents have heard that John Wayne grew up in Glendale in the 1920s, but few know the interesting details of his boyhood on Kenneth ...
  87. [87]
    La Crescenta-Montrose, California Facts for Kids
    Historical population. Census, Pop. %±. 1970, 19,594, —. 1980, 16,531, −15.6%. 1990 ... La Crescenta and the Crescenta Valley area have their own local newspapers ...
  88. [88]
    The Great Crescenta Valley Flood: New Year's Day 1934 (Disaster)
    A roaring wall of rocks, mud and water crashed down the canyons, uprooting trees, tossing boulders and automobiles like toys and carving a path of destruction.Missing: Griffith Park impact<|separator|>
  89. [89]
  90. [90]
    Local History Revealed in Movies - Crescenta Valley Weekly
    Apr 21, 2016 · Only two years later, John Wayne brought his production of “In Old California” to the Tujunga Canyon, where a railroad was built so that the ...Missing: life | Show results with:life
  91. [91]
    Alex Theatre: history + street views - Los Angeles Theatres
    216 N. Brand Blvd. Glendale, CA 91203 | map | More Alex Theatre pages: forecourt | lobby areas | auditorium | booth + attic | backstage |.
  92. [92]
    Management of Alex Theatre Debated - Crescenta Valley Weekly
    Jul 1, 2021 · The Alex Theatre continues to thrive,” said Devine. “We have no intention of harming it or disbanding it or shutting its doors. We want it to be a community ...
  93. [93]
    FIRST Robotics LA Regionals Celebrate Teamwork, Innovation
    Mar 21, 2018 · Two JPL-sponsored teams took top honors at the 18th annual FIRST Robotics Competition's Los Angeles Regional event over the weekend.
  94. [94]
    Students 'Keep It Moving' for Contest at JPL - NASA
    Dec 5, 2014 · Crescenta Valley High School and their contraption placed second in the 2014 JPL Invention Challenge. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech.Missing: innovators - | Show results with:innovators -