Hikes in the Santa Monica Mountains

A mesa is defined as a flat-topped hill with steep sides. A peak is defined as the pointed top of a mountain. Put these contradictions together and you get a subtle summit with substantial ocean views. This short perch on a mesa-like ridge behind Pepperdine University in Malibu delivers panoramic views over the surrounding Santa Monica Mountains. The hike to Mesa Peak up the steep sides of the mesa begins from the Piuma Trailhead in Malibu Creek State Park and follows 2. ...Read more.

Before it was called Calabasas - Cold Creek Trail, this single track on the northwest side of Calabasas Peak was called the Secret Trail. Well the secret is out and this 4.5-mile round trip trek is a pleasure that all hikers should discover! Tackle 750 feet of elevation change as you cross ridges and ravines topped by sandstone minarets, eventually reaching a 2,163-foot summit with 360 degree views over the Santa Monica Mountains. ...Read more.

Mount Baden-Powell is a special summit in the San Gabriel Mountains. It is one of the range's tallest peaks at 9,399 feet and holds particular importance to the Boy Scouts of America because it memorializes the lofty accomplishments of Lord Baden-Powell who founded the Scout Movement. The views are lofty too, lording over an expanse of rugged mountains framed the San Gabriel Valley to the south and the Mojave Desert to the north. ...Read more.

If you are looking for a nice loop hike in the Santa Monica Mountains above Beverly Hills, give Hastain Trail in Franklin Canyon Park a try. Hastain Trail can actually be used for two loops, one easy 1.8-mile loop with 350 feet of elevation gain and one moderate 2.2-mile option with 550 feet of elevation gain. Each trek is a satisfying way to explore Franklin Canyon Park. ...Read more.

The Getty Museum sits on a ridge in the Santa Monica Mountains above the 405 Freeway and has sweeping views over the west side of Los Angeles. East Sepulveda Fire Road (also known as Casiano Fire Road) crosses the ridge on the opposite side of the freeway and has great views of the Getty Museum and Santa Monica Bay. The wide dirt trail crosses a protected section of the Santa Monica Mountains called Getty View Park, and is 1. ...Read more.