🌄 Discover Duarte, California — “City of Health & Progress”
1. A Bit of Background & Local Flavor
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Located in the San Gabriel Valley foothills, Duarte spans roughly 6.7 sq miles with a population just over 21,700 as of the 2020 Census.
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Named after Andrés Avelino Duarte, who received the original Rancho Azusa de Duarte land grant in 1841.
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With diverse roots—from Tongva native lands to early settlers and mid‑century incorporation in 1957—Duarte blends heritage with suburban charm.
2. Local Attractions & Green Spaces
• Fish Canyon Falls (Angeles National Forest)
A tiered waterfall (80 ft in four tiers) with nearly year-round flow, fed by springs and accessed via a scenic 4.8-mile round-trip trail. The trail has been under long-term restoration—with a $1 million federal grant targeting reopening by 2025.
• Duarte Recreational Trail & Bike Path
This 1.6‑mile Class I bike trail, built along an old Pacific Electric Railway route, connects Royal Oaks Park to the San Gabriel River Bicycle Path—perfect for biking, jogging, or dog walks.
• Parks to Explore
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Encanto Park: Duarte’s largest, offering playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas.
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Royal Oaks Park: Green space bordering the bike trail, ideal for small family outings.
• Nearby Highlights
Though located in Duarte, attractions like City of Hope dominate the local landscape. Nearby historic Route 66 and neighboring Monrovia or Azusa offer enriching further adventures.
3. The Hub: City of Hope Campus
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A world-class medical, research & hospital complex sitting on 110‑acre campus, designated a National Cancer Institute Comprehensive Cancer Center.
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Recent expansions include the Duarte Outpatient Clinic, Hope Village Hotel, and new parking structures—enhancing access, patient support, and hospitality services.
4. Demographics & Lifestyle Snapshot
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Median household income around $97,950; home values average $710,700 (2023)—up ~6.4% from prior year.
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Homeownership rate ~63%; average household size ~2.98; diverse population: ~50% Hispanic/Latino, 17% Asian, 58% White, others multi‑racial or African American.
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Known as a bedroom community, many residents commute (~30 min average) to nearby employment hubs in Pasadena, LA, or Orange County.
5. Community & Culture
• Duarte Historical Society & Museum
Established in 1977, the museum shares Duarte’s story—from Rancho days to modern transformation. (Currently undergoing ADA upgrades and reopening mid‑July 2025).
• Route 66 Legacy
Historic Route 66 once ran through Duarte along Huntington Drive. Local events celebrate this heritage, like speaker series and exhibitions on “The Mother Road.”
• Local Events & Gathering Spots
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City of Hope Farmers Market draws communities together.
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Nearby Rubel Castle, Old Town Monrovia, and local art or museum tours add regional flavor.
6. Why Duarte? Great for Residents & Visitors Alike
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Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking (Fish Canyon Falls), biking trails, and mountain views.
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Healthcare professionals & patients are served by City of Hope’s top-tier facilities.
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Families benefit from parks, good schools (e.g. Duarte High School, recognized as a California Distinguished School), and a tight-knit suburban feel.
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Commuters gain direct access to the broader San Gabriel Valley and Los Angeles metro area.
