Explore Nature at Devil’s Punchbowl Natural Area

You may have to arrive early or stay late to see the mostly nocturnal animals that come out to live and play at Devils Punchbowl, but the spectacular geological features of this deep canyon cut by the runoff of large quantities of water from the higher San Gabriel Mountains are a sight to see in and of themselves. The highest mountain peaks above the park rise to 8,000 and the Devil’s Punchbowl Nature Center itself is located at 4,740 feet above sea level. Three geological fault lines contributed to the uplifting of the landscape here: The Punchbowl Fault is to the south of the rock formation while the Pinyon and San Andreas Faults are to the north. Visit the Nature Center for a Ranger guided tour and lesson about the earthquake faults that define California’s natural landscape.

Gray foxes may sometimes be seen in the early mornings or at dusk and you may occasionally see a deer crossing the road. Chipmunks and California ground squirrels are active during most of the day. A few of the common birds are on display. Many additional species migrate through the area at various times of the year. The reptile and amphibian fauna of the park represents a unique blend of the types found in the deserts and in the mountains. Examples of some of the more commonly seen reptiles and amphibians are on display. Rattlesnakes are a common inhabitant but are leery of people and are rarely encountered. Insects and spiders are seasonally abundant. They may be seen on flowers and shrubs throughout the park, especially during the spring and summer.  A representative collection of the various orders of insects is on display.

Devils Punchbowl Natural Area

28000 Devils Punchbowl Rd., Pearblossom, 93553 ; (661) 944-2743
Hours: Park Daily Sunrise to Sunset
Nature Center: Tuesdays-Sundays 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Closed Mondays
Ages: All
Cost: FREE
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