The Sleepy Hollow access point to the Monrovia Wilderness Preserve, though unmarked, is now open (I'll tell you how to get there in a moment), but City Manager Laurie Lile said our recent forest fire means the Highland Place access point is still closed. She writes:
"Since we exchanged emails a few months ago, the situation has changed with the Highland Access. Because of the fire damage and potential debris in the area, that area is closed indefinitely until we can assess the situation and make the area safe for public access.
"The Sleepy Hollow access point is already open and accessible. Installation of the entry signage was delayed; however we estimate that will be completed by mid to late August. So far, this location has very few visitors except for people from the surrounding neighborhoods. As word spreads, the number of visitors will increase. However, because there is no parking provided at this access point and the signs are still under construction, we have not provided wide-spread notification that the Sleepy Hollow access point is now open.
"As previously indicated, I do not have estimated dates for opening the access points at Ridgeside and Cloverleaf."
Finding the Sleepy Hollow access point is a bit tricky. I saw no sign that says "Sleepy Hollow," and while the city website says it is "west of Starlit Lane" on Norumbega, which it is, I did not see a sign when I drove by for Starlit Lane. Perhaps the best way to show where it is is with a map:
View Sleepy Hollow Trailhead in a larger map
- Brad Haugaard
