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Such an experience! Being from Texas, I've always loved riding horses. However, going horseback riding in California right before sunset seeing the mountains was AMAZING! Our tour guide Chris was amazing too! Very kind and made everyone feel confident with riding prior to going on the trail! She even made sure to get photos for everyone too!
If you are here for horse back riding or a hike you shouldn't be disappointed. If you want to see the old Western buildings they would use as a film set, there's not much left. Most of the newer Westerns are now filmed at the Melody Ranch, which is private property. Most of the structures were burned down in the Wolsey fire which left only two buildings. You can hike to the the old MASH TV set location from here which is a couple of miles hike from here. The fire affected the MASH location too.
The Woolsey fire of 2018 left rubble and destruction in its wake, which includes the western orifices that once called paramount ranch home. As of November 2019, the ranch only consisted of two western-style buildings: a train platform and the westworld church. Besides what is left of the western town, there are also some well-traveled, yet secluded trails. Watch out for the horse poop though! There are some horse tours and horseback riders that frequent the paramount ranch trails. Our hike took us on a loop around and above the ranch. It's an easy hike, but a long one at around 2.5 miles. Don't forget to bring your water bottles!
Spring is in bloom with so many different flowers and mother nature's beautiful colors. Before the Woolsey Fire back in November of last year, Paramount Ranch had a western town that was used to shoot movies and shows (including The Lake House, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, The Great Outdoors and Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman). But the church and train depot is still standing though. It will all be rebuilt one day, but that will take time. Aside from the western town being burned, there is still several trails for hiking, photo taking and flowers to see (including poppies, but please note that it doesn't have the superbloom that Walker Canyon in Lake Elsinore has, but nor does it have the crowds either). Please note that the trails are easy to hike for the most part but are not covered, most likely due to the fire (although there are plenty of trees still standing, you will see the black soot on many of the trees here, surprisingly survived the fire). So be sure to dress accordingly. While my husband, our little girl dog (yes this place allows leashed dogs) and I came here on a Sunday afternoon, around 1:45 pm, we saw a group of people horse back riding (in which you have to make a reservation for beforehand). Please note that there are restrooms available with running water and soap (but only available before you walk to the western town. The trails to hike will be passed the western town) if you need to use them. According to the park ranger, he told me that he is expecting for the flowers to keep on blooming and just needs a bit more sun to help with that. Hopefully when you come, there will be plenty for you to see.
There seems to be a major misconception on this site about what Paramount Ranch is. Western Town, which burned down in Nov. 2019, was only part of Paramount Ranch, but Paramount Ranch is far from "gone". (The church that was built for Westworld and train depot that was built for Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman remain.) For hikers and bird lovers, there are plenty of reasons to come to Paramount Ranch. There are several miles of easy hiking trails, wildlife, streams and a creek that is quite impressive after rain, and many Oaks. There is also the remnants of an old race track. There is a ranger station, clean restrooms, a couple of picnic tables, and an old fire station. Currently due to the rains, there is a lot of mud. Many of the trees and plant life were either destroyed or damaged, but many of them are actively recovering with the plentiful rains we've had this winter. Many native California plants have evolved to survive fires, and there are many shoots sprouting from the roots of damaged outer trees and shrubs. The Oaks and Yucca, among many others, will be back in force. For those that only came here for Western Town, it will be rebuilt in the coming years.
I can see the appeal of Paramount Ranch. It's got all the Hollywood history and then some. It definitely has potential for professional photo shoots, but they are serious about permits here. Signs say so. Mucho hiking opportunities in the area. Leashed dogs allowed. Gets nice and toasty here in mid-May. Have fun exploring! 2018 Challenge #89
Sadly the little western town is long gone, but they are planning to rebuild it in the near future so I'm excited for that! It's still a pretty cool place to come and explore - especially if you are a nature lover. They have some hiking trails, and in the spring time the water is flowing from the creek and everything is so green! Parking is easy with a lot right at the ranch entrance.
This is a great area for all sorts of trail lovers. Easy for kids, dogs, plenty of horse trails, and great running paths. They have since removed all the remaining burned remnants of the old movie sets that were burned in the Woolsy fire. However, you can still see the church (for those Westworld fans!) and the train station. This really has become one of my favorite spots over the past 9 months. It's quiet, beautiful, lots of wildlife and a super quick drive. Easy access from the 101 too. The weekends can get a little crowded but it doesn't feel crowded. Masks are required and most everyone wears them. Perfect little afternoon here!
What a lovely hidden gem! I came here today for my niece's birthday party, which was held in an open-air, barnyard hall-type space behind the main "town". It was a great space for a party, with plenty of bench tables and shade; we had a lovely time. It was also fun to walk around (while digesting our meal) and check out the various buildings. The sheriff's office (with its small jail cell!) and the little church across the way were particular highlights for me. My only quibble is that the women's restroom only had two stalls (the third was locked), and the flush button required some muscle. While we were at the party, there was a group of horse riders following a trail into the hills, as well as various small groups of people taking in the scenery or taking photographs. Everyone respected each others' space, which was just really nice. I can see why Paramount Ranch is an ideal location for filming. It's not that far from the freeway, but once you're there, it feels removed from the city. Aside from the party, it was pretty quiet. By the time my boyfriend and I reached the little church, we couldn't even hear the music. Just nature. It was sooo nice. It's a bit out of the way for me, but eventually I'd love to come back and visit.
It's beautiful and it's completely free. And there's really unlimited (free) parking. There are hiking trails and meadows and people riding horses but most people seem to come for Western Town, the Old West style buildings used in television shows and movies over the decades. If you're just looking at the buildings, you could probably be in and out of here in 30 minutes. But there are beautiful meadows and trails and endless (nature) photographic opportunities, if you want to take your time. It really feels like you're out in the country here...because you are.
Entrance must be free. Well worth a stop although there is much destruction from the fire and no reconstruction yet.
The town is burned down. The hikes are still nice though. The drive through the canyon is also nice. Watch out for speedy motorcycles.
A lot of the stage sets have burned down in fires over the year so not much is left. However, the church shown on Westworld is still here. The church is at the entrance so you really don't have to venture much at all. There are some okay trails here, but they don't really end in any good views or landmarks and are more loops. So, it was a bit underwhelming for me. There may be possible gems that I'm unaware of tho... Nonetheless, it's good if you need to get out and want something simple. read more
Western Town will be rebuilt but who knows when. Check calendar for fundraisers. You can still see the church and train depot here. On a tour they let you inside. Tour guides also mentioned to be careful of ticks, rattlesnakes, poison ivy. Surprised to see so many trees still thriving and life coming back to this place. Restrooms are clean and parking is free. read more
If you are looking for a place to hike or ride, this is for you. If you are just sightseeing, then I don't recommend coming here. The day I stopped by there were a group of painters drawing the landscape. There isn't much to see and no history signs posted in the beginning. read more
2 years ago
Paramount Ranch is a must stop destination if you find yourself out of places to visit in the Malibu Hills truly a breathtaking view of the mountains surrounding and some historical significance to Los Angeles. Shame about the park ranger, "what's so great about this place?" He asked me. read more
Such an experience! Being from Texas, I've always loved riding horses. However, going horseback riding in California right before sunset seeing the mountains was AMAZING! Our tour guide Chris was amazing too! Very kind and made everyone feel confident with riding prior to going on the trail! She even made sure to get photos for everyone too! read more
If you are here for horse back riding or a hike you shouldn't be disappointed. If you want to see the old Western buildings they would use as a film set, there's not much left. Most of the newer Westerns are now filmed at the Melody Ranch, which is private property. Most of the structures were burned down in the Wolsey fire which left only two buildings. You can hike to the the old MASH TV set location from here which is a couple of miles hike from here. The fire affected the MASH location too. read more
The Woolsey fire of 2018 left rubble and destruction in its wake, which includes the western orifices that once called paramount ranch home. As of November 2019, the ranch only consisted of two western-style buildings: a train platform and the westworld church. Besides what is left of the western town, there are also some well-traveled, yet secluded trails. Watch out for the horse poop though! There are some horse tours and horseback riders that frequent the paramount ranch trails. Our hike took us on a loop around and above the ranch. It's an easy hike, but a long one at around 2.5 miles. Don't forget to bring your water bottles! read more
Spring is in bloom with so many different flowers and mother nature's beautiful colors. Before the Woolsey Fire back in November of last year, Paramount Ranch had a western town that was used to shoot movies and shows (including The Lake House, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, The Great Outdoors and Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman). But the church and train depot is still standing though. It will all be rebuilt one day, but that will take time. Aside from the western town being burned, there is still several trails for hiking, photo taking and flowers to see (including poppies, but please note that it doesn't have the superbloom that Walker Canyon in Lake Elsinore has, but nor does it have the crowds either). Please note that the trails are easy to hike for the most part but are not covered, most likely due to the fire (although there are plenty of trees still standing, you will see the black soot on many of the trees here, surprisingly survived the fire). So be sure to dress accordingly. While my husband, our little girl dog (yes this place allows leashed dogs) and I came here on a Sunday afternoon, around 1:45 pm, we saw a group of people horse back riding (in which you have to make a reservation for beforehand). Please note that there are restrooms available with running water and soap (but only available before you walk to the western town. The trails to hike will be passed the western town) if you need to use them. According to the park ranger, he told me that he is expecting for the flowers to keep on blooming and just needs a bit more sun to help with that. Hopefully when you come, there will be plenty for you to see. read more
There seems to be a major misconception on this site about what Paramount Ranch is. Western Town, which burned down in Nov. 2019, was only part of Paramount Ranch, but Paramount Ranch is far from "gone". (The church that was built for Westworld and train depot that was built for Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman remain.) For hikers and bird lovers, there are plenty of reasons to come to Paramount Ranch. There are several miles of easy hiking trails, wildlife, streams and a creek that is quite impressive after rain, and many Oaks. There is also the remnants of an old race track. There is a ranger station, clean restrooms, a couple of picnic tables, and an old fire station. Currently due to the rains, there is a lot of mud. Many of the trees and plant life were either destroyed or damaged, but many of them are actively recovering with the plentiful rains we've had this winter. Many native California plants have evolved to survive fires, and there are many shoots sprouting from the roots of damaged outer trees and shrubs. The Oaks and Yucca, among many others, will be back in force. For those that only came here for Western Town, it will be rebuilt in the coming years. read more
I can see the appeal of Paramount Ranch. It's got all the Hollywood history and then some. It definitely has potential for professional photo shoots, but they are serious about permits here. Signs say so. Mucho hiking opportunities in the area. Leashed dogs allowed. Gets nice and toasty here in mid-May. Have fun exploring! 2018 Challenge #89 read more
Sadly the little western town is long gone, but they are planning to rebuild it in the near future so I'm excited for that! It's still a pretty cool place to come and explore - especially if you are a nature lover. They have some hiking trails, and in the spring time the water is flowing from the creek and everything is so green! Parking is easy with a lot right at the ranch entrance. read more
This is a great area for all sorts of trail lovers. Easy for kids, dogs, plenty of horse trails, and great running paths. They have since removed all the remaining burned remnants of the old movie sets that were burned in the Woolsy fire. However, you can still see the church (for those Westworld fans!) and the train station. This really has become one of my favorite spots over the past 9 months. It's quiet, beautiful, lots of wildlife and a super quick drive. Easy access from the 101 too. The weekends can get a little crowded but it doesn't feel crowded. Masks are required and most everyone wears them. Perfect little afternoon here! read more
8 years ago
What a lovely hidden gem! I came here today for my niece's birthday party, which was held in an open-air, barnyard hall-type space behind the main "town". It was a great space for a party, with plenty of bench tables and shade; we had a lovely time. It was also fun to walk around (while digesting our meal) and check out the various buildings. The sheriff's office (with its small jail cell!) and the little church across the way were particular highlights for me. My only quibble is that the women's restroom only had two stalls (the third was locked), and the flush button required some muscle. While we were at the party, there was a group of horse riders following a trail into the hills, as well as various small groups of people taking in the scenery or taking photographs. Everyone respected each others' space, which was just really nice. I can see why Paramount Ranch is an ideal location for filming. It's not that far from the freeway, but once you're there, it feels removed from the city. Aside from the party, it was pretty quiet. By the time my boyfriend and I reached the little church, we couldn't even hear the music. Just nature. It was sooo nice. It's a bit out of the way for me, but eventually I'd love to come back and visit. read more
It's beautiful and it's completely free. And there's really unlimited (free) parking. There are hiking trails and meadows and people riding horses but most people seem to come for Western Town, the Old West style buildings used in television shows and movies over the decades. If you're just looking at the buildings, you could probably be in and out of here in 30 minutes. But there are beautiful meadows and trails and endless (nature) photographic opportunities, if you want to take your time. It really feels like you're out in the country here...because you are. read more
6 years ago
The town is burned down. The hikes are still nice though. The drive through the canyon is also nice. Watch out for speedy motorcycles. read more
Paramount Ranch is a great off the beaten path LA attraction. It offers a bit of everything, Hollywood history, outdoor activities, hiking, nature. All for free! It's very easy to find off 101 (Kanan Rd exit), follow the signs and you'll be there sooner that you'll think. They also have free parking and plenty of it and clean restrooms. When we got there there was a b-day party for kids in barn. This place is great for kids. If you visit LA and want to do something different and you're in the area, check it out. It won't take too much of your time, an hour or less. If you live in LA area, you can spend longer and try a hike, shorter or longer, there are maps and various choices. Just watch for horses and tours on horsebacks. Great, fun place to spend an afternoon. They close at sunset and the park rangers are serious about checking for permits if you try to do professional photo shoots here! read more
I have been here several times over the years. Always a hit, bringing visiting guests here and it is free. There was always something different here since this is still an active filming stage and venue for events like art shows. Manage to see the crew at work for Drunk History, a period drama. read more
6 years ago
Really beautiful park with some great hiking and walking trails. Unfortunately as others have said, only two buildings are still remaining from the original town. Still a great place to visit though if you're in the area. read more
5 years ago
8 years ago
In spite of the devastating fires, and the loss of the western town, due to the rains, it's absolutely beautiful at Paramount ranch..lush green mountains, California poppies fill the hills, as well as goldfields, purple lupines, tiny pink and red flowers..really spectacular! The blackened trees are eerily beautiful..beautiful skies full of white clouds..entire area is quite magical..and the church still stands! read more
13 years ago
Since 1980, this 326-acre "movie ranch" has been a part of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area between Malibu and Calabasas. Back in the '20s, Paramount Ranch was over 2,400 acres, but there's still plenty of room for hiking the hills, exploring Medea Creek, having a picnic, or hanging out in the Western Town used in numerous Hollywood productions. TV Shows love and use the park often. Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman with Jane Seymour was a popular show shot on site and much of the Western Town used for the series still exists. It's a nice location for some classic photo ops. Cross the bridge from the parking lot and you'll be in the town. Other television programs filmed at Paramount Ranch Park includes CSI, Weeds, X-Factor, Carnivale, A-Team, Dukes of Hazzard, McGyver, and hundreds...yep, hundreds more. Movies shot in the park include Scream, Van Helsing, The Lake House, The Great Outdoors, Helter Skelter, and Gunfight at the OK Corral plus dozens of other old westerns back when Westerns were booming business. * Free Parking * Free Entrance (no National Park Pass required) * Open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. except federal holidays * The park is about 15-20 minutes from either Malibu or Calabasas. * Lots of hiking trails. Check the website for a map * Great photo ops in the Western Town * It's a wildlife park, so, expect plenty of bugs, bees, and more * The temperature is always about 10 degrees higher than Malibu. * Wear sunscreen and bring your own water * Dogs are allowed, but must remain on the trails and on a leash When you want to escape the hustle and bustle of life in Los Angeles, Paramount Ranch is a historic movie park with lots of sun and free outdoors fun right in the middle of the Santa Monica Mountains. read more
11 years ago
Paramount Ranch offers several hiking trails... Easy to moderate hikes for all. Free entrance. Free parking. The Ranch was used as a life-action motion picture set with a Western motif. Notably... The Cisco Kid, The Mentalist, Weeds, and Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman. The 'western town' is quite a sight for film enthusiasts, as well as the urban explorers... Many photo-ops. Wheel chair / stroller accessible. Dogs allowed. Modest restrooms available. Picnic areas. Watch out for equestrians, bicyclists, and horse manure. Road apple fights, anyone? Lol. read more
4 years ago
As a photographer I made the best of the location, some of the landmarks are no longer there because they were burnt in a fire (someone in the area informed me) Beautiful views and great for editorial shoots or if you want to take the drive just to enjoy the scenery. read more
Besides being an old western movie ranch, for 2 years Paramount Ranch also used to be a racetrack. The track had a unique overpass/underpass that created a figure eight layout which also made it dangerous to drive. The track was closed in 1957 after a series of bad accidents that caused serious injuries and some fatalities. You are still able to see sections of the old cement track. The day I visited Paramount Ranch there was a wedding taking place. It looked like a really neat outdoor, country-themed, wedding. There was Bluegrass music playing in the background and the weather was perfect. I'm sure that the western themed buildings and the large oak trees made for some really nice photos. There are also some nice short hiking trails that are just the right distance for the kids. It's a great place to spend a few hours if you are in the area. You can also combine it with a hike to the former Mash set located within Malibu Creek State Park or King Gillette Ranch that's also located nearby. read more
10 years ago
Paramount Ranch Overview: Giddy-up! In 1927, Paramount Pictures purchased approximately 2,700 acres of land in the Malibu Hills to create a "movie ranch." The land served as a focal point for several films, including The Adventures of Marco Polo (1938) and Ebb Tide (1937). In the early 1950, Paramount sold the ranch to William Hertz who converted the ranch into a fulltime western town, expanding upon Paramount's early endeavors. The movie production continued and hits, such as The Cisco Kid, were filmed. Today, the park serves as a local icon to the glorious past of Western culture and a portal for hikers and active enthusiasts to enjoy a fun backdrop to a day outdoors! Estimated Time: 1-3 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend exploring the trails and iconic buildings. There are several table areas to enjoy an outdoor picnic. Why We Liked It: Paramount Ranch features over a dozen western buildings that are unique and charming. From an old jail to a salon and town hall, each building has a unique feature that makes it fun to explore and a perfect backdrop for pictures. Although crowded during our visit, we were still able to find some solace in the town and enjoy the beauty of town. The trail is fairly easy and take plenty of water, if you plan on visiting during the warmer months. read more
17 years ago
Happy trails. Upon stepping out of the car, we heard music (literally, not like angelic choirs) and my immediate reaction was -- aw MAN I thought this was a park with trails and the great outdoors, not some theme park with re-enactments of the old West. This is gonna SUCK! But as it turns out, the music was coming from a wedding party (and I do mean par-tay), which actually seemed like an intensely cool idea, and the music itself became imperceptible by the time you reached the other side of the Western Town buildings. This place is beautiful, the trails feel like wilderness, the picnicking is easy, and the whole shebang way closer to civilization than it seems. The drive out there from Venice was less than an hour, including traffic. And now for some tips. - Sunscreen sunscreen sunscreen - If you bring your puppy, bring a leash and have extra water - Watch out for roving equestrians - Don't get too wrapped up in what trail you're on...they're not well marked and the map is less than comprehensive...but eventually all roads do lead to home sweet home on the range read more
5 years ago
4 years ago
12 years ago
Photographer's dream come true. Was looking at the site as a potential wedding venue. Dressed up, took photos, had a great time with friends. I have an affinity for the Old West, so it's really cool to be able to pose in front of the movie structures.. read more
I would say if you are looking for a shady trail do not head out to Paramount Ranch. The trails are easy, not to much climbing, but if you don't have a hat there isn't much in the way of shade and for some reason the breeze doesn't flow to freely through here. It does have a nice trailhead area with a bathroom and water. There is also a "western town" at the beginning of one of the trails that Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman was filmed as well as Carnivale (as Shannon mentioned.) It's an interesting hike and well maintained within Malibu Creek State Park. Here are the details: Distance - 2.75 mi. roundtrip Time - 1.5 hrs Elevation - 200 ft. read more
9 years ago
My husband and I got married here last weekend and are so happy we chose Paramount Ranch. All of our guests thought it was so cool to be in a park AND a Hollywood landmark at the same time, the Rangers were super nice, and it's pretty much the least expensive place to get married in LA. Downsides are that no liquor is allowed and you have to be out by sunset but, if you can get over those things it's super gorgeous and a great place to bring all your loved ones. If there's no filming in progress you can go inside the buildings and take some great pictures, there are lots of wide open spaces to take advantage of, and it includes a covered reception area with all the tables and chairs provided! I highly recommend. If you're thinking about getting married here feel free to DM me with questions! read more
This review is for 07/28/2012. My friend and I have been going to a lot of places see California's Gold. Sorry Mr. Howser! After going to Malibu Creek State Park last year to see the M*A*S*H Site, my friend picked a place to the genre of movies...a Western Theme Hike. Time to go back to the Western-era and see how the Wild West was at Paramount Ranch. My friend used the reliable GPS, but got us lost. My recommendation: When you go back in time, there are no Satellites, except when Aliens are in space. There are two entrance/exits and its very noticeable on Cornell Road. There is plenty of parking and is no charge, but donations are welcomed. The first thing I noticed was a Bus Stop area. Not sure if there is a bus stop that goes here, but if there is one, you have access to a historic place. When we were there, there was an Eagle Scouts Party going on there. So, Private Parties are welcome. You may see a Park Ranger at the entrance with all the facts and pictures about the park on a portable kiosk. When you walk in, you leave 2012 and enter the 1800s with locked doors and a Mercedes driving through. Well, there was a party going on. I was hoping to see horsepower of a different transportation method. There is a Saloon, Bank, and an Exchange on site. There was a building that looked like a Train Station and it could possibly be. Imagine going to this area expecting mail or a telegram. After exploring the area, there are hiking trails. However, there were multiple that led to Private Property. I am not sure what the Private Property was, but there are a lot of signs. My friend had to halt the hike because of something I won't disclose, but it will forever be stuck in my head. This was a simple hike, but the heat was one factor, but the wind balanced it out from time to time. I've visited Korea and I've visited the Western Times. Its not the time machine that you need to have, just a vehicle that goes 65 miles per hour, not 88 mph, that can take you there. Another hike with another theme is coming up. Just not sure what era I'll be going to next. I just don't hope I don't bump into myself. Yelp is My Review, My Story, and My Life. Its time to share it. read more
Honestly.. I love stuff like this. I really do. Nature. Check. Historic Buildings. (Well, these are fake... but still...) Check. (and a side benefit) Allusions to the old Charlie's Angels show and old tv shows and movies... Check. I was surprised at how modern this place is... it's very well maintained... as there is this little ranger station and two bathrooms and a couple drinking fountains. Pretty nice for a park. You park (you don't have to pay for any sort of permit or anything like that here) and you walk in this little gate. There's this little "kiosk" which has a little mailboxes with trail maps and some blurbs about the history of this place. As soon as you pass this gate, immediately to your right there are all the only western style mock buildings. These are awesome. They really are...and they make for cute pictures. On the left there is the little grassy area, where I noticed a lot of little kids playing... but in a civilized manner. It seems like the people who come here respect the area...and aren't going all crazy or letting their kids do so. Then there are a whole bunch of trails. I don't know. I really don't know which trails we ended up taking... but they're not super steep. I was surprised at actually how much we were able to walk...and I wasn't tired. Although, I could feel all the little rocks through my sneakers. :) The trails were pretty easy to follow and maintained... and it really feels like you are in the middle of nowhere. It's also pretty romantic since there are just green rolling hills and trees... with a few plateaus for you to climb and look out over all the lush landscape. It can get a little hot since there's little shade... but there was a nice breeze. But there's tons of wildlife all around... which is lovely... but there's lots of rustling in the bushes. I was not scared of that bunny! hahaha! All in all, it's awesome...and it's definitely something you should check out when you get a chance! read more
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More info about Paramount Ranch
Ask the Community - Paramount Ranch
Is there hiking?
There are several trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Is a permit need to take family photos?
I've done plenty of photography there without a problem
Are there picnic tables?
Yes. Two large picnic tables. Maybe seats 6-8 per table. :)
Review Highlights - Paramount Ranch
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4 reviews that are not currently recommended
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5 years ago
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