Named after a canyon that carves its way through the San Gabriel Mountains, San Dimas is a thriving city east of Los Angeles. It centres around a sprawling lake and a recreational reserve and is home to one of the largest water parks on the West Coast.
Things to do in San Dimas
If you’re visiting in the summer months, you can cool off at Raging Waters Los Angeles, which has been open since 1983. Encompassing 24 hectares, it boasts more than 50 attractions that include the Amazon Adventure lazy river, the Dark Hole water slide and a FlowRider surf simulator. A highlight is the Aqua Rocket, which uses hydro-magnetism to propel riders against gravity.
On the southern edge of San Dimas is the Puddingstone Reservoir, an artificial lake constructed in the 1920s to control floodwaters and provide irrigation for local citrus growers. Today, it’s a popular recreational destination, with fishing, boating and swimming permitted in designated beach areas. You can get your adrenaline pumping while jet skiing and windsurfing or indulge at the Puddingstone Hot Tubs.
On the western side of Puddingstone Reservoir lies Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park, where you can hike, mountain bike or relax at one of the private picnic areas. It’s a popular horseback riding destination and home to equestrian staging areas, as well as children’s playgrounds and a softball field. In the north of the city is San Dimas Canyon Park, which features a nature trail and an animal sanctuary.
Getting around San Dimas
San Dimas is around an hour’s drive from Los Angeles and 1.5 hours from Los Angeles International Airport. Trains connect to the nearby Pomona (North) railway station and buses travel throughout San Dimas.