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Topanga State Park: An Urban Wilderness Escape

Discover 36 miles of trails, stunning ocean views, and a rich history in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains at Topanga State Park.

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Topanga State Park, nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, is a sprawling natural haven within Los Angeles city limits. With 11,000 acres and 36 miles of trails, it offers panoramic ocean views, diverse wildlife, and a rich history dating back to the Tongva people. It's a popular destination for hiking, biking, and escaping the city bustle.

A brief summary to Topanga State Park

  • Monday 8 am-6:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-6:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-6:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-6:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-6:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-6:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-6:30 pm

Local tips

  • Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the trails can be dry and exposed.
  • Wear sturdy shoes and sun protection for hiking.
  • Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends.
  • Check the park's website for trail closures and fire safety updates.
  • Be aware of wildlife, including rattlesnakes, and keep a safe distance.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The main entrance to Topanga State Park is at Trippet Ranch. From Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1), head north on Topanga Canyon Boulevard. Turn right onto Entrada Road and follow it for about a mile to the park entrance. From the Ventura Freeway (US-101), exit onto Topanga Canyon Boulevard and drive south for three miles to Entrada Road; turn left. Parking at Trippet Ranch costs $10 per day. Free parking is available along Entrada Road outside the park.

  • Public Transport

    While public transportation directly to Topanga State Park is limited, several bus routes connect to the general Topanga area. From Downtown Santa Monica, the Metro 134 bus runs to Pacific Coast Highway/Topanga Canyon. From there, you can connect to the park via taxi or rideshare. A one-way fare on the Metro 134 is $2. A taxi or rideshare from PCH/Topanga Canyon to Trippet Ranch will cost approximately $15-$25.

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Discover more about Topanga State Park

Topanga State Park offers an expansive escape into nature, right within the city of Los Angeles. Encompassing 11,000 acres in the Santa Monica Mountains, the park boasts 36 miles of trails and unpaved roads, inviting hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians to explore its diverse terrain. The park's history stretches back thousands of years, serving as a homeland to the Tongva Native American tribe. The name 'Topanga' is believed to originate from the Tongva language, meaning 'a place above'. In the 1700s, the area faced invasion following the establishment of settlements by Spanish colonialists. Later, the land was made available under the Homestead Act. In the 1920s, Topanga Canyon became a popular weekend destination for city dwellers. The state acquired the land in the 1940s, officially establishing Topanga State Park in 1967. Today, Topanga State Park provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the Channel Islands, and the sprawling Los Angeles basin. The park's trails wind through grasslands, oak groves and chaparral-covered slopes. Popular trails include the Musch Trail, Eagle Rock Trail, and the Santa Ynez Trail. The main entrance to the park is through Trippet Ranch, a former weekend retreat.

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