Amir’s Garden: A secret garden atop a mountain in Griffith Park

Griffith Park has many hiking trails that offer a quiet and serene atmosphere which range from moderate to high level of difficulty. One in particular is a hidden secret garden atop a mountain.  How is this garden possible?

This Sunday, I took the one mile hike to reach Amir’s Garden. The story is, the garden was built by an immigrant volunteer named Amir Dialameh. Amir was inspired by the acts of volunteerism in this country, that he volunteered his time to build a garden in an area of Griffith Park that had been badly burned by brush fire.

For thirty-two years, Amir worked in the garden most days of the week, hiking up a service road to the rugged Mineral Wells location. Over the years, he planted pine and jacaranda trees along with rose With the help of many other volunteers, Amir’s Garden is now five-acres.

The garden is filled with picnic tables and benches. In addition, there are several trails and steps that allow you to explore the garden.  Over the years, Amir planted pine and jacaranda trees along with rose.

One step you are on the same old dusty fire road and the next , you are surrounded by little bursts of color, succulents wild and on the loose, trees with full-grown-man shade, purple flowers dotting a ridge, views peaking out through the trees.  I’m always in awe to see the garden perched on the dry mountain. 

I can’t help but giggle in pure childlike wonderment at this mysterious oasis.   It takes your heart by surprise, this imperfect wild garden with hidden benches and tiny terraced paths that brings one so much joy and peace and happiness.   I have so much gratitude for it.

I am so grateful it was created and continues to be lived on by volunteers.  

Thank you, fellow garden friends.  

Click here for Directions for Amir’s Garden.