LA-88 Nike Missile Site, Chatsworth, CA

A quick drive from Los Angeles, the first operation missile base in the country sits decaying on top of a mountain.  The base was one of 16 in California which were collectively known as the Ring of Steel.  

Following the fear of Russia’s nuclear proliferation during The Cold War, the 200 missile bases around the country have since been decommissioned.  Used for Los Angeles PD Bomb Squad and SWAT team training since 2013, the remaining structures and vehicles are riddled with bullet holes. Some the size of matzah balls, we continually remarked.  

Most buildings also have been taken over by bees who’ve built their hives within the concrete cinder blocks.  Rattle snakes have also tucked themselves inside the debris.  The hike up is steep and shelter from the blazing sun is scarce, but the remains are well worth it.