Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Beautiful place. I went back in 2019 March when they had a “superbloom”. It was magical. These photos are from 2019.

Sunset benches is a great place to unwind, hike, and experience nature. Incredible sunsets everyday that never disappoint. Wildlife is a abundant, great views of Boney, fun to see horses on trails as well.

Great area to hike since we were here in February. I am not sure when it gets really but really enjoyed our stay since we only hiked King Gillette Ranch and Malibu Creek State Park regions of this national recreation area

In stark contrast to the sprawling urban and suburban landscapes of nearby LA, the Santa Monica Mountains are a gorgeous range of dramatic rocky mountains with plenty of sites, parks, quirky small towns and trails hidden in its canyons. If you’re at least heading to Malibu for the beaches, it’s worth at least driving through here

Wow, wow, wow! One of the most amazing places in California to visit. I hiked the loop trail starting from the Backbone Trail at Sandstone Peak Trailhead and linking up onto the Mishe Mokwa Trail. Along the way, I stopped at Sandstone Peak, Inspiration Point, Split Rock, Echo Cliffs, and Balanced Rock. Excellent views all along this loop. There are many different wildflowers of all sorts and a good portion of the trail is overgrown with them. The rock formations sort of resembled the rock formations at Garden of the Gods in Colorado. Please be careful driving on the narrow and sharp turn roads. Visit these mountains. You will not regret it!