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Sullivan Canyon Trail: A Tranquil Escape in Los Angeles
Escape to nature in the heart of Los Angeles on this scenic trail through a lush, tranquil canyon in the Santa Monica Mountains.
Sullivan Canyon Trail, nestled in Brentwood, offers a serene escape from the city bustle with its tree-lined fire road and peaceful canyon setting. This 8.5-mile round trip trail is perfect for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking, providing a refreshing outdoor experience for all skill levels.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Sullivan Canyon Trail
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Los Angeles, Brentwood, California, 90049, US
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Getting There
Driving
To reach Sullivan Canyon Trail, navigate to Queensferry Road near Rustic Canyon Park in Brentwood. From Sunset Boulevard, turn north onto Mandeville Canyon Road, then left onto Westridge Road, followed by a left onto Bayliss Road, and finally, a left onto Queensferry Road. Parking is available on Queensferry Road, though it can be limited, especially on weekends. Be mindful of parking restrictions and local residents.
Public Transport
For those using public transportation, take the Metro Bus to Sunset Boulevard and Mandeville Canyon Road. From there, walk one block west to Riviera Ranch Road, turn right, and walk one mile north on Old Ranch Road to the trailhead. Alternatively, walk north on Mandeville, turn left at Westridge, left at Bayliss, and left at Queensferry to the trailhead. A single Metro bus fare is $1.75.
Local tips
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Bring plenty of water, especially on warm days, as shade can be limited in some areas of the trail.
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Wear appropriate footwear, such as hiking shoes or sturdy athletic shoes, as the trail can be uneven in places.
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Be aware of mountain bikers and horses on the trail, and yield to them as necessary.
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Consider exploring the connecting trails to Sullivan Ridge for enhanced views of the surrounding area.
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Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
Discover more about Sullivan Canyon Trail
Sullivan Canyon Trail is a hidden gem in the Santa Monica Mountains, offering a peaceful retreat within Los Angeles. The trail follows a wide fire road through a lush canyon, characterized by stately sycamore and oak trees, and a seasonal creek.
Historically, the area around Sullivan Canyon was once home to a thriving equestrian community in the early 20th century. In 1946, Cliff May, a renowned architect, developed Sullivan Canyon Ranches, incorporating communal stables and bridle trails, reflecting a rustic ranch lifestyle.
The trail is popular among hikers, dog walkers, and mountain bikers. The main path is relatively flat, making it suitable for casual walkers, while more adventurous hikers can explore connecting trails to Sullivan Ridge for panoramic mountain and ocean views. For those seeking a longer hike, the Sullivan Canyon Loop combines the Sullivan Canyon Trail with the Sullivan Fire Road, Mulholland Drive, and Westridge Fire Road.
While the scenery along the main trail is consistent, the tranquility and natural beauty of the canyon make it a worthwhile experience. The trail provides a refreshing escape from the urban environment, with the opportunity to enjoy the shade of the trees and the sounds of nature.
A brief summary to Sullivan Canyon Trail
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