Biking Guide

If you’re looking for mountain biking trails... it’s all right here where you live and play.

Whether you're looking for a nerve-racker or a beginner ride, OC has a trail that's up your alley.

We may not have many two-mile singletracks, but if you can't find something fun, try harder.

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• Directions to the trail
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Rocky Oaks / Glade Trail

An easy walk along a popular horse path in the heart of the Santa Monicas. Great for kids.

Location: Rocky Oaks
Region: West SF Valley/Santa Monica Mountains
Distance: 1.4 mi.
Difficulty: Easy with one short but steep climb.
When to go: Year-round
Hours: 8 a.m. to sunset
Phone: 805-370-2301
Elevation Gain: 200 ft.
Are dogs allowed: Yes, on a leash.
Restrooms: Yes, in the parking lot.
Parking: Free parking in lot.

Trail Information

Full Review: On a hot day, it's the smells that you'll remember most about this hike. Pungent sage, mostly, with a faint hint of fresh horse manure. In fact, the lumps of recently digested hay are so prevalent on some parts of this hike that you'll spend more time watching your step than your surroundings. Still, the easy access and abundance of native plants make this a walk worth taking.

The hike starts at the far end of the parking lot, where an information board marks the entrance to the trails. Walk past the amphitheater on the right, where you'll pick up the Glade Trail. Stay on this trail until it connects with the Rocky Oaks Loop Trail. Here you'll turn right and stay on Rocky Oaks as it takes you north alongside Kanan Rd., then makes a sharp turn to climb a slight hill.

After a half a mile or so on this trail, you'll see the turnoff for the Overlook Trail. Walk up the steps for impressive views of the surrounding Santa Monicas and nearby rock formations. Retrace your steps to the Overlook turnoff, then continue along the Rocky Oaks Loop Trail. At the bottom of the hill, turn left at the junction, then take a quick right to finish the loop. A right turn at the next junction takes you back to the other end of the parking lot.

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