Finding the right place to say goodbye is heavy. It's not just about a plot of land or a headstone; it’s about the vibe of the place where you’ll be visiting for years to come. Honestly, if you’ve lived in the San Gabriel Valley for any length of time, you’ve probably seen the signs for Forest Lawn Cemetery West Covina, though technically most locals and the maps call it Forest Lawn - Covina Hills.
It sits right on the border.
Driving up via Via Verde, the first thing you notice isn't the graves. It's the view. You're looking out over the San Dimas and Covina area, and on a clear day after a rain, those mountains look close enough to touch. It feels less like a graveyard and more like a massive, rolling park that just happens to be a memorial park.
Why Forest Lawn - Covina Hills Feels Different
Most people expect cemeteries to be kind of cramped. You know the type—rows of upright granite stones, narrow paths, and a slightly spooky atmosphere. Forest Lawn changed that whole game. Founded by Hubert Eaton, the "Forest Lawn" brand basically invented the memorial park concept. They wanted "God's Acre" to be beautiful, not scary.
At the Covina Hills location, you see this in the sprawling lawns. They use flat markers. It’s a design choice that makes the landscape look like one continuous green carpet. It's peaceful. It’s also a bit of a workout if you decide to walk the hills, so maybe wear sneakers if you aren't just driving to a specific section.
The Life of Christ Mosaic
One of the big draws here—even for people who aren't visiting a loved one—is the "Life of Christ" mosaic. It’s massive. We’re talking over 10 million pieces of hand-cut Italian glass. It is one of the largest mosaics in the world. Even if you aren't particularly religious, the sheer craftsmanship is staggering.
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The colors stay vibrant because glass doesn't fade like paint. It’s a focal point for the "Cathedral Drive" area of the park. You'll often see photographers there or people just sitting on the nearby benches trying to find a moment of quiet. It's one of those local landmarks that feels hidden in plain sight.
Planning and Practical Realities
Let’s get into the weeds because that’s why you’re likely reading this. Death is expensive. There, I said it. Dealing with Forest Lawn Cemetery West Covina involves navigating a lot of options that can feel overwhelming when you’re grieving.
They offer the full spectrum:
- Traditional ground burial (what most people think of).
- Cremation niches (which are becoming way more popular because of cost and space).
- Mausoleum entombment (for those who prefer being indoors).
- Green burial options (though you should check current availability as these programs shift).
The prices vary wildly. A simple cremation niche is obviously going to cost a fraction of a private family estate. If you’re pre-planning—which, honestly, everyone should do—you can lock in prices. Inflation hits the funeral industry just as hard as it hits the grocery store.
The "Hidden" Sections
Because the park is so large, it’s easy to get lost. The sections have names like "Ascension," "Benevolence," and "Victory." Some areas are much older, with mature trees that provide actual shade, while newer sections can feel a bit exposed to the California sun. If you’re choosing a plot, visit at 2:00 PM on a Tuesday. See how hot it gets. Check if there’s a breeze.
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Also, the "Garden of Prayer" is a particularly quiet spot. It’s tucked away and feels more intimate than the grander, more open vistas near the entrance.
Navigating the Rules
Forest Lawn is strict. I mean really strict. If you go there planning to leave a huge shrine with balloons, solar lights, and plastic fences, you’re going to be disappointed. They have a "clean lawn" policy to keep the park looking uniform.
- Flowers: They usually allow fresh flowers in the permanent vases.
- Removal Days: They clear everything off the lawns on a set schedule (usually once a week). If you leave something sentimental that isn't in a vase, it’s probably going in the trash.
- Decorations: No statues, no pinwheels, no potted plants on the grass.
It sounds harsh, but it’s how they keep the place looking like a park rather than a cluttered lot. If you want more freedom to decorate, you might actually prefer a smaller, independent cemetery, but you'd lose the grand scale of Forest Lawn.
Funerals and Services
The Foreword Chapel and the Church of Our Heritage are the two main spots for services. The Church of Our Heritage is a replica of a historic church in Massachusetts (St. George’s). It has that classic, colonial vibe with white wood and a steeple. It’s small-ish, so if you’re expecting 300 people, you’ll be looking at other facilities or an outdoor graveside service.
The Local Impact
The West Covina and Covina communities have a deep connection to this land. It’s not just a business; it’s where generations of local families are buried. On holidays like Mother’s Day or Memorial Day, the traffic on Via Verde can get backed up all the way to the 57 freeway.
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If you’re planning a visit on a major holiday, get there early. Like, 8:00 AM early.
The staff there generally knows their stuff. They deal with people on the worst days of their lives, so there’s a level of practiced empathy that you’d expect. But remember, it is a business. Don't be afraid to ask for a breakdown of every single "administrative fee."
Common Misconceptions
People often think you have to be a certain religion to be buried at Forest Lawn Cemetery West Covina. Nope. It’s non-sectarian. While there is a lot of Christian imagery (like the mosaic), they welcome people of all faiths or no faith at all.
Another big one: "It's full."
Not even close. They have a massive amount of land that hasn't even been developed yet. They are set for decades.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Bring Water: It’s a hillside. It gets hot. There aren't drinking fountains every ten feet.
- Use the App: Surprisingly, Forest Lawn has a decent GPS locator for gravesites. Finding a specific marker among thousands is a nightmare without it.
- Check the Gates: They close the gates promptly at sunset. Don't get locked in.
- The Office: If you need help, the main office is near the entrance. They can print out a map with a "cross" marking exactly where a loved one is located.
Actionable Steps for Families
If you are currently looking into arrangements or just curious about the site, here is how you should actually handle it:
- Visit Without an Appointment: Walk around first. Get a feel for the different "gardens" without a salesperson over your shoulder. Note which areas feel right to you.
- Request a General Price List (GPL): By law, they have to give you this. It lists the cost of everything from the hearse to the filing of death certificates.
- Compare the "Outer Burial Container" Prices: This is the concrete box the casket goes into. Forest Lawn sells them, but you can technically buy them elsewhere (though the logistics of shipping a concrete box are a nightmare, so most people just buy through the cemetery).
- Check the Floral Schedule: Before you buy a $50 bouquet, call the office and ask which day is "mowing day." You don't want your flowers thrown out 12 hours after you place them.
- Look at the 57/10 Interchange: Consider the commute. If you live in Los Angeles, getting to West Covina on a weekday afternoon is a two-hour ordeal. Make sure the location is actually convenient for the people who will be visiting the most.
Forest Lawn - Covina Hills is a massive, complicated, and beautiful piece of the Southern California landscape. Whether you’re there for the art, the view, or a more somber reason, it’s a place that demands a certain level of respect and preparation. Take your time with the hills. The view from the top is worth the drive.