Trails near Santa Monica

Hikes worth every step

Honest trail reviews from people who actually hike them — difficulty, views, crowds, and the routes most people get wrong.

Top trails

The hikes locals keep going back to

Ranked by locals who do them regularly — not travel bloggers on a one-day visit.

Moderate · 10 mi

Topanga Canyon Trail

The best hike near Santa Monica. Eagle Rock views stretch to Catalina on a clear day. Go early on a weekday.

★★★★★ 4.9Free · 1,800 ft gain

Moderate · 6 mi

Temescal Canyon Loop

A waterfall, a meadow, and panoramic ridge views — all within 45 minutes of the beach.

★★★★★ 4.8$8 parking · 1,200 ft gain

Will Rogers State Park Loop

Gentle hills with sweeping city and ocean views. Great for beginners and dogs.

★★★★☆ 4.6$12 parking · 600 ft gain

Backbone Trail — Western End

The full western section delivers serious solitude and ridgeline views that rival anything in SoCal.

★★★★★ 4.9Free · 2,800 ft gain

Palisades Blufftop Trail

Flat, paved, and completely spectacular at sunset. The most accessible ocean view walk in the city.

★★★★☆ 4.7Free · Flat

Moderate · 7 mi

Malibu Creek State Park

A creek, a volcanic rock pool, and the old MASH filming location. One of the most varied hikes within 30 minutes of SM.

★★★★☆ 4.7$12 parking · 900 ft gain

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