BY: ELENA ROCHE
At 3,111 ft. above the Pacific Sandstone Peak is the highest point in Santa Monica Mountains. With 1.5 mile hike to the top, 1081 ft elevation gain and fantastic views of the ocean and the Channel Islands it offers a great workout. The physical effort is well worth it. The sunrises and sunsets create especially beautiful vistas. Parking at the Sandstone Peak trail-head is free.
TOPANGA STATE PARK, LOOP TRAIL, Starting point Topanga Canyon Inn
Depending on your speed if you need a workout and how many photos you may like to take if you want a leisurely hike this 5 mile round trip hike may take from two to four hours to complete. When you stay with us at Topanga Canyon Inn all you need to do is walk out of the doors and start your hike. At the end of your first mile you will reach the top of the ridge where ocean view opens up rather suddenly in front of you framed by Eagle/ Elephant Rock on the right and steep mountain slopes on the left. From here you will see the terrain with portions of the fire road/ trail that you will be traveling on for the next three miles with distant city views of Los Angeles. In the winter the distant San Gabriel Mountains are often covered in snow. On some days it is so clear the view span is over 50 miles in all directions. On other days low fog rolls in from the ocean creating new islands in our canyon. We have a map for you. Google maps will also show you the loop trail and you can track yourself as the cell reception is fairly good in the park.
Located on the border of Topanga State Park and Will Rogers State Park Inspiration Point is a two mile loop hike that starts near Will Rogers house-museum, goes over the historic ranch land with views of his polo field where matches take place often. At the top there are benches so sit down, relax and enjoy views of the Santa Monica Bay, the city of Santa Monica, downtown Los Angeles and in the distance the San Gabriel Mountains, that are often snow-capped in the winter.
Book your room directly at Topanga Canyon Inn to be conveniently located for all this scenic hikes and to get the best rate. Visit our Accommodations Page to choose your room or call us directly at 310-570-3791.
