On a bright Saturday morning in March, a group of nature and history lovers gathered near The Trails Café in Griffith Park for LFIA’s docent-led tour of Fern Dell.  LFIA and Friends of Griffith Park director, Marian Dodge, gave the group a brief into to the area before heading onto the Fern Dell Nature Trail.

As they walked, Dodge pointed out Fern Dell’s distinguishing features, and described the changes this small corner of Griffith Park has seen over the years:  When it opened to the public in the early 20th century, Fern Dell was a place for Angelenos, dressed in their Sunday best, to stroll surrounded by the lush, tropical foliage. As time passed, Fern Dell fell victim to neglect and vandalism; ferns were stolen and the faux-bois railings deteriorated. 

In recent years, Fern Dell has been restored to its earlier self, a project spearheaded by The Friends of Griffith Park.  For more on their work: Fern Dell Restoration.

The docent-led tour of Fern Dell is part of LFIA’s ongoing event series.  Visit this site for information on upcoming events.