Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Spanning over 500 miles of trails from urban Los Angeles to the Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is the world's largest urban national park unit. Visitors can explore dramatic rocky canyons, coastal chaparral, historic ranches, and sweeping scenic vistas. The park offers a wide variety of outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing.

History

Designated as a National Recreation Area in 1978, the Santa Monica Mountains preserve a tapestry of cultural and historical sites, including Native American heritage and historic ranches that hark back to California's early settler days.

Expert notes

• Wear comfortable hiking shoes for the trails.
• Bring plenty of water and sun protection.
• Stay on designated trails to protect the wildlife and habitat.

Features

• Camping Sites
• Equestrian Trails
• Hiking Trails
• Historic Sites
• Mountain Biking
• Picnic Areas
• Scenic Views
• Visitor Center
• Wildlife Viewing

Special occasion reservations

• Visit the park's official website or contact the visitor center for reservation details.
• Reservations for campsites and picnic areas can be made in advance, especially during peak seasons.