Forest hikes in Santa Monica, California

The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, located in Calabasas, California, offers easy access to stunning natural landscapes. With over 500 miles of trails to explore, visitors can enjoy the famous beaches of Malibu and discover historical and cultural sites throughout the park, including old movie ranches and Native American centers. Park scientists have studied nearly 100 mountain lions since 2002, providing valuable insight into their survival and conservation efforts. Stay informed about ongoing projects, such as the restoration of native plants and efforts to protect the largest native species in the western United States. Don't miss the opportunity to hike the Backbone Trail, a 67-mile route that spans the entire Santa Monica Mountains. Plan your visit today and see what wonders await you and your family in this beautiful park.

Welcome to the Santa Clara River Preserve, a stunning natural haven located at 1368 Mission Rock Road, Santa Paula, California. This expansive park spans nearly two miles of the majestic Santa Clara River, encompassing almost 1,000 acres of diverse upland habitat and riverbed. As one of the few public access points to the Santa Clara River, the preserve offers a unique opportunity to connect with this vital waterway. Managed by The Nature Conservancy (TNC), the Santa Clara River Preserve is a perfect destination for outdoor education, community gatherings, wildlife viewing, and hiking. Visitors can explore the natural beauty and learn about the ecological significance of the Santa Clara River, a critical source of drinking water and a key resource for local agriculture. The preserve also plays an essential role in providing some of the last riverside and freshwater habitats in the Los Angeles-Ventura region.

Southwest Adventures is a premier travel agency located at 1436 2nd Street in Santa Monica, California. Specializing in organizing unforgettable trips and excursions throughout the Southwest region of the United States, Southwest Adventures offers a wide range of travel packages and services to suit every traveler's needs. Whether you're looking to explore the stunning landscapes of national parks, embark on outdoor adventures, or immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Southwest, Southwest Adventures has you covered. With a team of experienced travel experts and a passion for creating memorable experiences, Southwest Adventures is your go-to agency for all your travel needs. Book your next adventure with Southwest Adventures and let the journey begin!

Welcome to Sandstone Peak Trailhead Parking, your gateway to one of Southern California's most breathtaking natural attractions. Conveniently located at 12896 Yerba Buena Road, Malibu, California, our trailhead offers easy access to the stunning landscapes of the Santa Monica Mountains. As the highest point in the range, Sandstone Peak provides hikers with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands, and the vast expanses of the Los Angeles County wilderness. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or a photographer seeking the perfect shot, our trailhead is the ideal starting point for your adventure. Enjoy well-maintained trails, diverse ecosystems, and the tranquility of nature as you explore this remarkable park. Visit us and experience the beauty and serenity that Sandstone Peak has to offer.

Welcome to Backbone Trail Access at Encinal Canyon, your gateway to adventure in the stunning Santa Monica Mountains! Located on Encinal Canyon Road in Malibu, California, this park offers a unique opportunity to explore the 67-mile-long Backbone Trail, a designated National Recreation Trail. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful escape from city life, our trail promises an unforgettable experience. Join us each week for a video series hosted by longtime volunteer Ralph Waycott, as we take you through the trail's eight segments and introduce you to LA’s premier hiking experience. Don't hesitate to share your questions, trail experiences, tips, or thoughts with us by emailing samo_interpretation@nps.gov.

Welcome to Circle X Ranch, a hidden gem located at 12896 Yerba Buena Road, Malibu, California. Nestled in the picturesque canyons above Malibu and beneath the majestic Boney Mountain, Circle X Ranch is a former Boy Scout camp offering a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. Discover the beauty of this rare coastal Mediterranean ecosystem by hiking one of the many trails that wind through the ranch. Immerse yourself in the unique chaparral plant community, where you can spot the distinctive red shank chamise with its reddish-brown bark and delicate white flowers blooming in July and August. Keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant blue-bellied lizards and lively scrub jays during the day, and experience the enchanting presence of gray foxes and bats as twilight descends.