A gradual, but steady climb up to a
spectacular lookout point situated high above the Pacific Ocean with views
of the Channel Islands in the distance.
Location: Topanga State
Park Region: Malibu/Santa Monica Mountains Distance: 5 miles Difficulty: Moderate When to go: Year-round Hours: 8am to dusk Phone: 310-455-2465 Elevation Gain: 1,200 ft. Are dogs allowed: No Restrooms: None Parking: Limited street parking nearby. Be sure to check signs for
restrictions.
Trail Information
Full Review: If you hike up high enough
above the LA coastline, you can see the exact point where the fog meets the
smog. It's an oddly calming sight, especially if you're lucky enough to live
below a foggy part instead of a smoggy part. (To the rest of you, my
sympathies.) The Topanga Overlook offers one such view. On misty mornings,
it's like looking down into a giant glass of Guinness: Thick white foam with
splotches of brown seeping up around the rim. Once the haze clears, the view
stretches out over the Pacific to the Channel Islands, with silhouettes of
high-rises dotting the city sky, and mansions cropping up in the surrounding
valleys. It's as all-encompassing a panorama as the west side has to offer.
From the trailhead, follow the Santa Ynez fire road on its gradual but
steady climb above Santa Ynez Canyon. After two miles, you'll come to a
junction pointing north and south along Topanga Canyon. A right turn would
lead you toward the park headquarters at Trippett Ranch — not a bad detour
if you're intent on adding several miles to your hike. Otherwise, turn left
and walk along the bumpy ridge to the overlook..
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