Community Update
SCV Park & Trail Update — August 2026
From the grand reopening of David March Park to the long-awaited Haskell Canyon Bike Park, Via Princessa Park construction, and the William S. Hart Park annexation — here is everything happening in Santa Clarita's parks and trails this late summer.
August 25, 2026 Sam Silver 6 min read
Santa Clarita Valley has seen some of the most significant park and trail developments in recent memory during 2026. The City of Santa Clarita and Los Angeles County have invested heavily in green spaces, trail networks, and recreation facilities that make this valley one of the best places to live in Southern California. As your local SCV insider, I have been tracking every project, every ribbon cutting, and every trail closure — here is the full update from your local expert, Sam Silver.
Newly Renovated
David March Park Grand Reopening
Reopened June 1, 2026 · 27150 David March Park Drive, Santa Clarita
The City of Santa Clarita celebrated the grand reopening of David March Park on June 1, 2026, following an extensive renovation that transformed this already popular neighborhood park into a premier community recreation destination. The park was expanded by 8 acres, bringing its total size to accommodate a range of new amenities that have made it a daily draw for families across the valley.
What is new at David March Park? The expansion added a full-size baseball field, a basketball court, a large picnic pavilion perfect for birthday parties and family gatherings, an enhanced playground with modern equipment for kids of all ages, and outdoor fitness equipment for adults. A standout feature is the 116-step exercise staircase — a welcome addition for fitness enthusiasts who have been training on the SCV Stair Project steps around the valley. Additional parking was also added to accommodate the increased traffic.
From my own visits, I can tell you that the public art integrated into the park design gives it a distinctive character. The expanded green space is already hosting community gatherings and youth sports, and the playground has been consistently busy since opening day. If you have not been since the renovation, it is worth a visit.
In Development
Haskell Canyon Bike Park
720 acres · 15+ miles of trails · $7.4 million project
The Haskell Canyon Bike Park project continues to be one of the most anticipated outdoor recreation developments in SCV history. This 720-acre mountain bike park promises to put Santa Clarita on the map as a destination for cycling enthusiasts, with over 15 miles of purpose-built trails including the first directional downhill trails in the valley.
The project faced delays earlier in 2026 when dirt bike trespassers caused damage to the construction site, pushing the original December 2025 completion target back. In July 2026, the Santa Clarita City Council was asked to approve $1.5 million in additional funding to improve access roads to the park, signaling that the project remains a high priority for the city.
While the official opening date is still being finalized, the infrastructure work continues. For mountain bikers in SCV, this park will be a game-changer — offering everything from beginner-friendly flow trails to technical downhill runs. I will keep you updated as soon as a grand opening date is announced.
Coming Soon
Via Princessa Park — New Sports Fields & Regional Trail Connection
Announced February 2026 · North of Via Princessa Metrolink Station
Announced in February 2026, the Via Princessa Park project will bring a major new recreation facility to the northern part of Santa Clarita. Located north of the Via Princessa Metrolink Station, the park will feature four multi-purpose sports fields with lighting for evening games, restrooms, a nature-themed playground, shaded picnic areas, and a regional trail connection.
This park is especially significant for the Canyon Country and surrounding communities, which have long needed additional sports field capacity. The multi-purpose fields will accommodate soccer, flag football, lacrosse, and other youth and adult sports. Site preparation was anticipated to begin in early 2026, and the project represents a significant investment in the quality of life for SCV residents.
The regional trail connection is a particularly exciting component — it will link the park to the broader Santa Clarita paseo and trail network, which already spans 80 miles of trails and 20 miles of paseos throughout the city. This means residents will be able to bike or walk to the park from neighborhoods across the area.
As someone who has helped countless families find homes in Canyon Country and the surrounding areas, I can tell you that new parks like this one add real value to neighborhoods. They are one of the top things families ask about when they are considering a move to SCV.
New County Park
Riparian Park — Stevenson Ranch's Newest Green Space
Opened November 2025 · 27842 Riparian Ave, Stevenson Ranch
While it opened in late 2025, Riparian Park in Stevenson Ranch is still a relatively new addition to the SCV park system that many residents have not yet discovered. This 5-acre Los Angeles County park at 27842 Riparian Avenue features basketball courts, grassy sports fields, and a new playground that has quickly become a favorite for local families.
Stevenson Ranch is one of the most family-oriented neighborhoods in SCV, and Riparian Park fills a gap in recreation options for the western side of the valley. The park is well-maintained and offers a quiet, neighborhood-scale alternative to the larger regional parks. If you live in or are considering a move to Stevenson Ranch, this park is a definite quality-of-life bonus.
Riparian Park at a Glance
- 5 acres of green space in Stevenson Ranch
- Basketball courts and sports fields
- Modern playground equipment
- Operated by Los Angeles County
- Free admission and parking
Historic Landmark
William S. Hart Park Joins the City Park System
160+ acres · 2026 · 24151 Newhall Ave, Santa Clarita
In a significant development for the SCV parks landscape, William S. Hart Park and Museum officially became part of the City of Santa Clarita's park system in 2026. This 160+ acre property, which has long been a beloved local landmark, offers a unique blend of Western heritage, scenic hiking trails, and the historic Hart Mansion museum.
The transition to city ownership means the park will benefit from the city's maintenance and improvement programs, ensuring it remains a premier destination for residents and visitors alike. The park features miles of hiking trails that wind through oak woodlands and offer panoramic views of the valley, plus the Hart Museum — the former home of silent film star William S. Hart — which is furnished with his original belongings and Western art collection.
For families, the park is a perfect weekend destination: free admission, abundant parking, wide-open spaces for picnicking, and trails that are accessible for all fitness levels. The park also hosts community events throughout the year, including the Hart of the West Pow Wow and the annual Cowboy Festival.
As a longtime SCV resident, I have watched Hart Park evolve from a county-run facility to a city park. The transition means better upkeep, more programming, and a secure future for one of the most historically significant properties in the valley. It is a place I recommend to every homebuyer I work with — being close to Hart Park is a genuine lifestyle perk, and I have seen it influence more than a few buying decisions.
"Hart Park is one of those places that makes Santa Clarita special. When I show homes in the Newhall area, I always mention that this incredible park is just minutes away. The hiking trails, the museum, the open space — it's a genuine asset for the whole community."
— Sam Silver, SCV Realtor & Local Guide
Santa Clara River Trail Temporary Closure
August 26 - Late September 2026 · Near Bridgeport Park
A month-long closure of the Santa Clara River Trail near Bridgeport Park began August 26, 2026, for construction of the S Wells PFAS Treatment and Disinfection Facility. The closure is expected to last through the end of September. During this period, trail users are advised to use alternative routes. The Santa Clarita trail system offers plenty of detour options — the paseo network through Valencia and the trail connections at Central Park provide good alternatives for walkers, runners, and cyclists. I will update this guide when the trail reopens.
By the Numbers
SCV Trail & Paseo System
Santa Clarita's trail network is one of the most extensive in Southern California, connecting neighborhoods, parks, and schools across the valley.
80
Miles of Trails
Hiking, biking, and walking paths across the city
20
Miles of Paseos
Neighborhood greenway connections
$1.5M
Annual Trail Budget
Allocated for maintenance and improvements
35+
Parks Citywide
From neighborhood parks to regional destinations
Sam's Take
Why Parks Matter for SCV Homeowners
Property Values
Proximity to well-maintained parks and trails consistently adds value to homes. In SCV, homes within walking distance of a park or paseo access tend to sell faster and at a premium. The investments the city is making in parks are a positive signal for homeowners.
Quality of Life
Parks are where communities come together. From youth sports to weekend picnics, our parks are the backbone of SCV's family-friendly lifestyle. Every new park or trail expansion makes this valley a better place to call home.
Active Lifestyle
The SCV Stair Project, Haskell Canyon Bike Park, David March Park's fitness staircase — SCV is building infrastructure that encourages an active lifestyle. As someone who has climbed the stairs and coaches Special Olympics, I love seeing this commitment.
Stay Updated
I track every park opening, trail update, and community development in SCV. Whether you are a current resident or considering a move to the valley, reach out anytime. I am your local insider.
More SCV Guides
Castaic Lake Recreation Guide
Swimming, boating, fishing, and family fun at SCV's favorite lake.
Hidden Hiking Trails in Santa Clarita
Lesser-known trails for when you want to escape the crowds.
Elsmere Canyon Trail — SCV's Hidden Gem
A quiet canyon trail with panoramic valley views.