Endless Summer Hikes: 4 Trails Not to Miss in the Santa Monica Mountains This September

The calendar might say summer’s over, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to stop enjoying the outdoors here in beautiful California. 

The Santa Monica mountains offer many trails for hikers of all levels and abilities.  Lead Exercise Physiologist for the Center for Health & Wellbeing Jake Miller explains, “Hiking outdoors is an excellent exercise for anyone. It is a low-impact workout that can help you clear your head and reconnect with nature.” 

Below, Miller shares his top four picks of can’t-miss trails in the Santa Monica Mountains you can enjoy in September and beyond. 

Top 4 Hiking Trails in the Santa Monica Mountains

These four trails will help you disconnect from your busy life and get in touch with nature.  

• Charmlee Wilderness Park - Located in the Malibu Hills, Charmlee Wilderness Park has breath-taking ocean views. It has more than eight miles (13 kilometres) of hiking trails spread out over 532 acres (215 hectares). There are also many picnic areas. The trails connect for adventurous hikers looking to make a long route. There are also shorter trails under a half mile that can easily combine for a shorter loop. Trails are also open to equestrian riders and mountain bikers. The park opens at 8:00 am daily and closes at dusk. 
• Sycamore Canyon Fire Line Trail - This relatively easy hiking trail is suitable for beginners and anyone who wants a nice low-intensity hike. The trail is only 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometres) from point to point, starting in Point Magu State Park. It connects with other trails in the park and the Santa Monica Mountains. You’ll see beautiful ocean views and pass some wildflowers along the way.  There is a long flat section, and it ends with a relatively steep hike that leads to a scenic hilltop with a picnic table. 
• Wildwood Regional Park - There are 14 trails in Wildwood Regional Park that together cover 17 miles (27 kilometres). This is an excellent park for people of all skill levels, as the trails range from easy (108 feet/33 metres elevation gain) to moderate (1,630 feet/497 metres elevation gain).  Many of the trails lead down into a canyon. Others follow a creek and a few end in natural waterfalls. Wildwood Regional Park opens at 7:00 am every day and closes at dusk. 
• Boney Mountain Trail - This is the most challenging trail on the list, especially if you want to make it all the way to the top at 2,825 feet (860 metres) of elevation.  In addition to being steep, the trail is mainly on a single narrow track. Some sections are pretty rocky, and you’ll likely need to duck your head at certain points. However, Miller promises the hike is worth it, saying, “when you get to the top, you’ll be at the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains with incredible views all around you.” 

Stay Well

Hiking on a trail is the perfect way to elevate your fitness and improve your mental health.  Get more wellness and exercise advice from The Center for Health & Wellbeing at Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village.