Altadena is part of unincorporated Los Angeles County. It is located just north of Pasadena and just east of La Canada-Flintridge. The Los Angeles National Forest borders on the north. Neighboring La Canada-Flintridge is home to Jet Propulsion Laboratories, operated by Cal Tech. Altadena has a homey country feel. Some areas are horse property. It's proximity to the mountains means that the backyards of some homes open onto trails. The patchwork quilt of America's culture is well represented here.