Lake Hughes is an unincorporated community in northern Los Angeles County, California. The community is nestled in the Sierra Pelona Mountains northwest of Palmdale, north of the Santa Clarita Valley, and in the Angeles National Forest. Its ponds include Elizabeth Lake Hughes. Despite the unincorporated community status, Lake Hughes offers a wide variety of recreational activities and attractions.
Running Horse Ranch
The Running Horse Ranch is a mountain-top equestrian retreat perched on the massive Palomar Mountain range, 1300 meters above sea level. The ranch is easily accessible from the Los Angeles International Airport and is open to experienced riders from all over the world. Experienced riders can join a ten-day equestrian adventure, which includes daily lessons, a scenic trail ride, and a night at a luxurious hotel.
Located near Los Angeles International Airport, the Running Horse Ranch offers panoramic rides of various destinations. They also offer vacations where guests stay in luxury tents or rustic cabins. Daniela Keyes grew up working with horses, bringing her first pony, Sus, with her from Berlin.
Aside from the Running Horse Ranch, guests can also visit the nearby Harvey Carey Trading Post and various horse ranches. San Francisquito Canyon Road, a scenic road that runs from Saugus in the Santa Clarita Valley to the Leona Valley, once served as the location of the historic St. Francis Dam, which collapsed in 1928 and killed over 500 people. Also, within 25 minutes of Lake Hughes, guests can visit the Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park, which is free of motorized vehicles. A brief history lesson will provide background information on the region’s plants and animals.
While staying at the Running Horse Ranch, visitors can take advantage of the nearby Canyon Creek Summer Camp. The camp offers a variety of activities and requires advance reservations. Visitors can also take advantage of the camp’s pit toilets and picnic benches. The campground is located on Lake Hughes Road. Nearby attractions include the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, the largest field of blooming California poppies in the state.
Another reason to visit the Running Horse Ranch in Lake Hughes, California is its proximity to the Sierra Nevada. This place is home to many well-trained horses. It is not for the faint of heart, but those looking for a high-quality equestrian experience can do so. The ranch’s safety is a top priority, and the horses are well-trained and fit.
Shadowland Foundation
The Shadowland Foundation is an educational sanctuary for wolves and their habitat. Located in Lake Hughes, California, it offers a range of educational opportunities for kids of all ages, including private on-site visits. The foundation also offers public Two Hour Educational Experiences on alternate Saturdays.
There are many outdoor activities to keep children occupied. For example, the Oaks Retreat Center hosts many workshops on a variety of topics, and there is a lake view from almost every window. There are also many recreational camps in the area. The Painted Turtle Camp, located off Elizabeth Lake Road, is a great option for kids with special needs.
While visiting the Shadowland Foundation, you may want to take in a wolf show or visit the Canyon Creek Summer Camp. The camp offers many activities for kids. The camp has 82 acres of land, so children can play and learn while having fun. Registration is required. Walk-ins are not permitted. The area also includes the nearby Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve. This state park is home to some of the state’s largest fields of California poppies.
Crazy Harry’s Bar
Crazy Harry’s Bar is a great place for a cold beer and a great time. The ambiance is laid-back and casual, with limited seating. The beers are cold, and the drinks are tasty. While the bar may not be a true representation of Los Angeles, it does have a laid-back attitude.
There are various events and live music taking place in the area. You can check the website or call ahead to check the schedule of events. You can also find out what is happening in the city by logging on to Tripadvisor. The site also has 59 reviews of Lake Hughes businesses, and you can check out their menus and events.