Ranch wildlife in Malibu, California

Welcome to Circle X Ranch, Grotto Trailhead, your gateway to adventure and tranquility in the heart of Malibu's breathtaking landscapes. Located at 12896 Yerba Buena Road, Malibu, California, our unique campground, lodging, and park offer an unforgettable escape into nature. Nestled beneath the awe-inspiring Boney Mountain, this former Boy Scout camp provides endless opportunities for exploration and leisure. Discover the beauty of a rare coastal Mediterranean ecosystem as you hike along our numerous trails. Immerse yourself in the chaparral plant community, where you might encounter the striking red shank chamise, a tree-like shrub adorned with reddish-brown bark and delicate white flowers blooming in mid-summer. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting blue-bellied lizards and scrub jays by day, and perhaps catch a glimpse of gray foxes and bats as twilight descends.

The Anthony C. Beilenson Visitor Center, located at 26876 Mulholland Highway in Calabasas, California, is a travel agency that serves as a gateway to the stunning Santa Monica Mountains. Whether you want to explore the famous beaches of Malibu or hike along over 500 miles of trails, this center is your starting point for adventure. Discover historical and cultural sites, from old movie ranches to Native American centers, and learn about the park's diverse wildlife, including the nearly 100 mountain lions studied by park scientists. Stay informed about ongoing restoration efforts for native plants and animals, and don't miss the opportunity to hike the 67-mile Backbone Trail that spans the entire mountain range. Plan your visit to the Anthony C. Beilenson Visitor Center and uncover the wonders of the Santa Monica Mountains.

Solstice Canyon in Malibu, California is a picturesque park and tourist attraction offering a variety of hiking options for visitors to explore. From easy strolls to challenging climbs, guests can immerse themselves in the coastal sage scrub and riparian plant communities while enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The highlight of the park is the perennial waterfall, a popular hiking destination where visitors may encounter local wildlife such as acorn woodpeckers, alligator lizards, and red-tailed hawks. The park also features the architectural ruins of the Keller House and The Roberts Ranch house, designed by renowned architect Paul Revere Williams in 1952. With its rich history and stunning scenery, Solstice Canyon is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Welcome to Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, a breathtaking natural park located in Calabasas, California, just a short drive from the bustling city of Los Angeles. Our park offers a serene escape into nature with diverse hiking opportunities suitable for all levels of adventurers. Explore Solstice Canyon, where you can choose from easy, moderate, or challenging hikes through stunning coastal sage scrub and vibrant riparian plant communities. Enjoy a leisurely picnic or a peaceful stroll along the Solstice Canyon Trail, or test your endurance on the Rising Sun Trail. One of our most popular attractions is the perennial waterfall, a perfect destination for hikers. Along your journey, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as acorn woodpeckers, alligator lizards, fence lizards, and the majestic red-tailed hawk soaring above.

Welcome to Backbone Trail Access at Mishe Mokwa, your gateway to adventure in the stunning Santa Monica Mountains! Located at Backbone Trail, Malibu, California 90265, this park offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore one of America’s premier long-distance trails. The 67-mile Backbone Trail invites you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Mediterranean ecosystem, a rare gem found in only five places worldwide. Join us on this remarkable journey, guided by our engaging video series hosted by longtime volunteer Ralph Waycott. Each week, we unveil a new segment of the trail, providing insights and stories that bring this breathtaking landscape to life. We invite you to share your thoughts, experiences, and questions about the trail by emailing [email protected].

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 [email protected].

Welcome to Sandstone Peak Trailhead, your gateway to adventure and tranquility in the heart of Malibu's natural beauty. Located at 12869 Yerba Buena Road, Malibu, California, our unique campground, lodging, and park offer an unforgettable escape into the wild. Nestled below the majestic Boney Mountain and surrounded by the serene canyons above Malibu, you'll discover Circle X Ranch, a former Boy Scout camp rich with opportunities for exploration and leisure. Embark on a journey through our rare coastal Mediterranean ecosystem, where numerous trails invite you to immerse yourself in nature's wonders.

Explore the Backbone Trail Access at Yerba Buena Welcome to the Backbone Trail Access at Yerba Buena, your gateway to adventure in the stunning Santa Monica Mountains. Located on Yerba Buena Road in Malibu, California, this park offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of America's premier long-distance trails. Spanning 67 miles, the Backbone Trail invites hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians to immerse themselves in the beauty of Southern California's best-protected coastal Mediterranean habitat.