More on biking in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Rubber Necking on the Santa Monicas
Head to the Sycamore Canyon Campground in Point Mugu to start a family-friendly hike laden with jaw-dropping scenery that takes you from wildflower-covered slopes to panoramic views of the Pacific and a sycamore-shaded creek. The trail gains 900 feet in elevation over the first 2 miles, but the trail is well engineered and the climb can be handled by most.

Just past the Sycamore Canyon's gate you'll see a sign that marks the start of the Scenic Trail. The area's rolling hills, which once suffered heavy damage as the result of a 1993 fire, are now blanketed in laurel sumac, Spanish broom and paintbrush. Further along, the trail opens up and grants spectacular views of the canyon, ocean, and, further along, Boney Peak.

Hiking Circle X Ranch
This area has become a haven for sadistic bikers, but that doesn't mean it's out of reach for the rest of us. The Circle X Ranch area, which offers some of the best views of Santa Monicas, is ideal for hikers looking for a manageable challenge. The area includes one of the tallest peaks in the range, and on a clear day, hikers can see all the way to Ventura and the Channel Islands.

More on hiking in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Contact Info
401 West Hillcrest Drive
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
U.S.A.
805-370-2301

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