When many of us hear the name Chandler we immediately think of the sand and gravel pit in Rolling Hills Estates. Linden H. Chandler, was the original owner; he moved here from Colorado when he was 9 and became an influential figure during the early growth of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Chandler was an active member of Los Rancheros Vistadores and rode in many Rose Parades. Perhaps this is why he so clearly wanted to see the land in this area preserved for horseback riding and hikers. The Linden H. Chandler Preserve was created in 1993 through a sale and donation by the property heirs.
The preserve is 28.5 acres and is a critical part of the natural environment in Rolling Hills Estates. Owned by the City of Rolling Hills Estates and the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy, intensive restoration has added native wildflowers, coastal sage scrub plants and shrubs to the hillsides. Living throughout this rare habitat are many different animals, including the threatened California Gnatcatcher, so bring your binoculars. One of the easily accessible self guided nature walks begins at the little league parking lot. The loop trail is .9 miles and is considered to be easy to moderate. While you are walking the trail remember not to drink any water from the streams since they are not considered fit for human consumption.
The preserve hours are from dawn to dusk. To get to the trail enter the Dapplegray School property in Rolling Hills Estates and turn left immediately. Follow the road to the bottom and park in the ball field parking lot. There you will see a trail map on the welcome sign.
The photo is courtesy of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy
