Places to explore
There are over 500 miles of public trails to explore in the Santa Monica Mountains as well as countless other features.
Note that trail regulations often vary depending on land jurisdiction, so always plan ahead.
Boney mountain
Boney Mountain is a well-known, much-loved landmark in the Santa Monica Mountains.
The sandstone Boney Mountain is one of the highest points in the Santa Monica Mountains, it is located in Circle X Ranch. You can access the trails at Sandstone Peak Trailhead at Circle X Ranch, or at Point Mugu State Park.
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Time lapse video of clouds over Boney Peak by Phil Kries
Satwiwa Native American Indian Culture Center
If you haven't visited the Satiwa Native American Culture Center, you are missing out!
Learn about Chumash history and lore, view exhibits or join them around the campfire for one of their storytelling evenings.
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OAK Trees
Although there are many beautiful trees in the Santa Monica Mountains, oaks are a favorite.
Two favorites are the Valley Oak and Live Oak - the shape of the mature tree and the leaves can help tell the difference between the two.
Valley OAK
Valley oaks can grow over 100 feet with roots reaching down 75 feet. They can live up to 600 years
Live OAK
Coastal live oaks can live for 300 years and reach heights of 75 feet. Their leaves have a cup shape allowing them to collect dew and mist, allowing the tree to survive in times of drought.
Backbone trail
This 67 mile hike passes through the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, from ocean side, through challenging mountain wilderness areas, to the outskirts of L.A. The trail starts in Point Magu State Park and the Ray Miller Trailhead and ends at Will Rogers State Park.
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Don’t forget to look up!
The sky above our Park is beautiful!
With many areas without city lights, our Park is the perfect place to enjoy the sky - day or night.
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Photo by Peter Buschmann
Photo by Steve Friedman
These are just a few ideas to get you started on Exploring the Santa Monica National recreation AreA - there are many other places to explore and activities to do
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