La Cañada Flintridge, often referred to simply as La Cañada, is a picturesque city located in Los Angeles County, California. Situated at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, it boasts stunning natural landscapes and a rich history dating back thousands of years.

The earliest inhabitants of the area were likely the indigenous Shoshoneans, who settled in the region around 2500 years ago. They lived in small villages near water sources and relied on hunting and gathering for sustenance.

During the Spanish and Mexican eras, the land that would become La Cañada Flintridge was part of the expansive Rancho La Cañada land grant. Owned by individuals such as Jose Verdugo and Ignacio Coronel, the land was primarily used for ranching and agriculture.

American settlers began arriving in the late 19th century, drawn to the area by its favorable climate and fertile land. Among the early settlers were Colonel Theodore Pickens and Colonel Thomas Hall, who established homesteads and contributed to the agricultural development of the region. In 1875, Dr. Jacob Lanterman and Colonel Adolphus Williams purchased Rancho La Cañada with the intention of subdividing the land for residential use. However, water scarcity posed a significant challenge to their plans, hindering development efforts. Despite these challenges, the area continued to grow, particularly with the establishment of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in 1930.

The presence of JPL solidified La Cañada Flintridge's reputation as a center for scientific research and innovation. Efforts to achieve city hood began in the mid-20th century, culminating in the incorporation of La Cañada Flintridge as a city on November 30, 1976. Led by community leaders like George Parrish, residents worked together to establish local governance and preserve the unique character of their city. Today, La Cañada Flintridge is known for its upscale neighborhoods, excellent schools, and abundant recreational opportunities. It offers residents a serene suburban lifestyle with easy access to the amenities of nearby Los Angeles. The city's vibrant community spirit and natural beauty continue to attract residents and visitors alike.

La Cañada Flintridge means “glen between the hills.” We were incorporated as a general law city on Nov. 30, 1976. A low-key lifestyle centered on children and community is central to the city’s 20,501 residents. The La Cañada Unified School District consistently ranks in the top five percent of California schools. Houses of worship and a variety of service organizations are an integral part of the community with volunteers contributing more than 250,000 hours to civic causes each year. La Cañada has always been known for its strong sense of community and civic pride. We enjoy one of the lowest crime rates in the country.

Public safety is provided by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the Los Angeles County Fire Department. La Cañada Flintridge is home to an 18-hole golf course (La Cañada Flintridge Country Club), a L.A. County Public Library, Descanso Gardens (botanical collections and seasonal horticultural displays), The Lanterman House (a historical museum and veritable time capsule of early 20th century Southern California), a community center with an extensive curriculum and activities for all ages, an active Chamber of Commerce for residents and businesses, a city hall, and a beautiful town center with shops and restaurants.