As we move towards the hotter months, why not enjoy the greener and cooler months by exploring some of the area’s hiking trails? The Santa Monica Mountains are only a short drive away, and they offer numerous trails of ranging difficulty. With so many options, it may be difficult to decide on where to start. For this list, here are five trails that ascend in difficulty.
Malibu Lake Trail
27332-27376 Waycross Dr., Agoura Hills, CA 91301
With easy trails that feature no rocky terrain or sharp climbs, the Malibu Lake Trail is great for a casual workout. The trail itself is out and back, six miles total, and has a nice mix of shaded and open areas. To add to this, set pieces from M*A*S*H can be found, and it is also fun to know that “The Planet of the Apes” was shot here. The lake itself is the largest watershed in the Santa Monica Mountains. However, dogs are not allowed, and parking is 12 dollars to enter the park for the day. To go along with this though, there are more locations to explore within the park.
Grasslands Trail
27000 Mulholland Hwy, Agoura Hills, CA 91301
4.8 miles out and back and with little climbing, the Grasslands Trail is casual and perfect for families. Near the Malibu Creek Trail, this hike is very popular amongst the community with open views and welcome atmosphere. Wildlife is abundant and is commonly seen on the hike, and once again M*A*S*H film sites can be identified. To attribute to the family atmosphere, there are picnic benches and public bathrooms if you decide to have a lunch with or without the family.
Calabasas Cold Creek Trail
24126-24398 Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas, CA 91302
A moderately difficult trail, this hike has particularly good reviews. There are many qualities that help it achieve a good reputation, such as it being kid friendly, filled with nature, and its sights. At 3.6 miles going out and back and with an elevation gain of 908 feet, it will get the blood flowing, but because it has a steady climb, it is not too taxing. As you climb, you get to see an open view of mountains, sandstone formations, and homes. The trail is useable throughout the year, and if you like to bring your dogs, that is certainly okay as well.
Mishe Mokwa to Tri-Peaks and Sandstone Peak
12896 Yerba Buena Rd, Malibu, CA 90265
If views are your thing, Mishe Mokwa to Tri-Peaks and Sandstone Peak offers debatably the best view of the Santa Monica Mountains, and for good reason. After climbing 1646 feet to the top, which sits at 3010 feet, views of the ocean and surrounding cities such as Malibu, Camarillo, Thousand Oaks and beyond can be seen. The climb may sound intimidating, but still is rated as moderate difficulty. The ascent is consistent, but not too steep. It is recommended for the best experience that hikers go on weekdays to avoid crowded parking and trails as this is a very popular hike.
Bulldog Loop Trail
27000 Mulholland Hwy, Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Last on the list, the Bulldog Loop Trail is a difficult hike, a 15-mile trek with roughly 3000 feet of elevation gain. On this trail, you will experience wooded areas, steeper climbs, and views of the ocean and highway. As with all mountainous trails, be weary of mountain bikers, and if going on a hotter day, bring more liquid than what you think you need. While there are wooded areas, most of it features no shade. If you are looking for something challenging with more spectacular views of the Santa Monica Mountains, the Bulldog Loop Trail may be right for you.
If you need more information or want to seek out other trails, hikespeak.com and alltrails.com are both great resources for all your hiking needs!