Shadow Hills

One of the last remaining Los Angeles-area neighborhoods zoned for equestrian use, Shadow Hills provides a peaceful, rural lifestyle filled with open spaces for horses – and homeowners – to enjoy. “Shadow Hills is very unique,” says Silvia Amador, a Realtor with Keller Williams Realty World Media Center. “It’s country living in the big city. The neighbors are very friendly, and they take care each of each other. You’ll see people riding horses on the weekends. That’s not something you’ll see anywhere else in L.A.”

When it comes to housing, Shadow Hills has lots to offer, including extremely large lots in the foothills of the Verdugo Mountains north of Los Angeles. Many of the neighborhood’s homes sit on lots that range in size from tens of thousands of square feet to several acres. Large estate-style homes stand out among the natural terrain, while smaller traditional homes and cozy homes that feature equestrian amenities such as stalls and open pastures also grace the expansive lots. But you’re also in luck if you’re looking for contemporary housing in a tranquil suburban setting. “We have Shadow Hills Estates, which is a newer community built in 1985 featuring custom homes with 2,500 to 3,500 square feet of interior space,” says Amador, who adds that “you’ll also see 1960s midcentury ranch homes. You have a mix of everything.”

There are three Los Angeles Unified public schools in the neighborhood. Stonehurst Avenue Elementary is a K-5 magnet school, Fenton Stem Academy is a K-6 charter school, and Vinedale Elementary is a K-8 school. The neighborhood also is served by Maclay Middle School and Verdugo Hills Senior High, an A-rated school by Niche that received a 9 out of 10 for Academic Progress from GreatSchools.

Because of its zoning, the Shadow Hills area is home to a network of trails – for more than just horses. “You’ll see a lot of hikers and kids riding their bikes,” says Amador. “It’s an active community.” The neighborhood’s open spaces, including the West Shadow Hills Loop, have been protected and fought for by the Shadow Hills Homeowners Association since 1964. Today the all-volunteer group of residents keeps the community abreast of pertinent news and happenings through a monthly newsletter on its website. In addition to the recreation and lifestyle provided by the association’s efforts, homeowners also have access to an array of options surrounding the neighborhood. Adjacent to the West Shadow Hills Loop is the Hansen Dam Recreation Area, a sprawling complex that offers a mix of rural and suburban activities. Situated around another network of trails, you’ll find a lake, a horse farm and wildlife preserve alongside soccer fields, an aquatic center and a golf course. More rugged adventure can be found just south of the neighborhood at Verdugo Mountain Park and La Tuna Canyon Park. And if you really want to enjoy the natural beauty of the northeast San Fernando Valley, the Angeles National Forest is less than 5 miles away via Big Tujunga Canyon Road.

Popular dining options include Rise N Shine Café, a family-run restaurant that receives rave reviews for its food and service, and Villa Terraza. “It’s a great Italian restaurant that is kind of hidden away; you can’t see it from the street,” says Amador. “But once you go inside, it’s a different world.” Both eateries are neighborhood staples. “Rise N Shine has the best pancakes,” exclaims Amador. “It’s a big thing on the weekend for residents to walk or hike there for breakfast. And then in the evening, you can relax over a meal and have wine at Villa Terraza.” Residents can take care of their daily dining needs and other essentials at Sunland Produce, and independent grocer that offers bulk foods and features farm-direct fruits and vegetables.

Additionally convenient is the location of the neighborhood, which is nestled between Interstate 5 and Interstate 210. This allows residents quick and easy access to surrounding metropolitan areas, including Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena and Los Angeles, which is less than 20 miles away.

Deeply connected to its rural roots but with access to modern amenities, Shadow Hills provides the best of both worlds.

Written By

Matt Pallister

Photography Contributed By

Joseph Choo

Video By

Pasha Chichagov