Peeking behind these gates reveals a world unlike any other in Los Angeles County. This is Hidden Hills. It is a city and a gated community. Hidden Hills offers a unique blend of rustic charm and nouveau Hollywood glamour.
Originally conceived as a rustic retreat, Hidden Hills has evolved into an uber-elite enclave. A. E. Hanson designed and developed this community in the 1950s. He was a Southern California landscape architect. His previous projects included Rolling Hills and Palos Verdes Estates. He also designed the Beverly Hills Harold Lloyd Estate, Greenacres, in the 1920s.
The city exudes a rough-around-the-edges charm. There is an absence of sidewalks and streetlights. You will see copious Horses and children at play signs. Abundant 2-acre lots are surrounded by white three-rail fences.
Hidden Hills is a place where residents enjoy a rural country lifestyle. It is a lifestyle that has nearly vanished from Southern California. The pastoral setting includes horses, llamas, and ostriches. You might even spot the occasional cow. Deep setbacks, white fences, corrals, and equestrian trails enhance the rustic feel.
Hidden Hills is located in the Santa Monica Mountains region. It sits on the western edge of the San Fernando Valley. Hidden Hills is near the border with Ventura County. The Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve borders it on the north. This park offers miles of equestrian, hiking, and mountain biking trails. To the south lies the Leonis Adobe National Historic Landmark. It features gardens and a historical museum.
In 2020, the population of Hidden Hills was 1,725. The community covers 1.688 square miles. That is about 4.37 square kilometers, all land.
Hidden Hills is governed by two entities. There is the City of Hidden Hills and the Hidden Hills Community Association. The Association reviews construction projects. It maintains common areas. These areas include six miles of roads and three gatehouses. You will also find 25 miles of bridle trails. There are three community riding arenas and four tennis courts. A competition-size pool and a recreation center are available. Also there is a 99-seat performing arts and movie theater.
Hidden Hills has many famous residents. They include musicians, actors, and athletes. Pepe Aguilar is a singer, actor, and producer who calls this place home. The rapper Drake also lives here. Celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Ozzy Osbourne have properties in Hidden Hills.
The one public school in Hidden Hills is Round Meadow Elementary. In 2013, it scored 902 on the Academic Performance Index.
Life in Hidden Hills includes community events. There is a summer camp for children. You can enjoy community theater programs. There are annual parades and carnivals. Residents host parties, welcome wagons, and snow days. Weekly community-wide barbecues take place during the summer.
Hidden Hills offers a unique blend of privacy, luxury, and community. It is a place where residents can escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. They can enjoy a more relaxed, equestrian-based lifestyle. As you leave Hidden Hills, remember its unique charm. It is a place where country living meets Hollywood glamour.