Travel Mondays: Topanga Lookout Trail

This weekend I decided to try out another hike I had heard about that delivered beautiful views. I got up around 7:00a.m. before the sun was too intense and it was worth it.  But first some facts about this location in California. In the Santa Monica Mountains 2,375 feet above the Pacific Ocean and 3 miles from the coast, the Backbone Trail crosses Stunt Road, creating a high trail-head for nearby destinations. Topanga Lookout, the former site of a fire tower, stands above Red Rock Canyon Park and offers fine views of the Santa Monica Mountains, Calabasas, and the Santa Susana Mountains. This hike to Topanga Lookout is 2 miles round trip with just 160 feet of elevation gain.

Now it could be me, but even though it was only two miles the incline was a little intense so I was able to get a  good workout and my butt and thighs were feeling it in a major way. Other than that the hike is pretty easy and safe where I think you could even bring your children.

I did however get lost in trying to find this famous Topanga Lookout once I started the trail. So for no confusion just beyond the gated trailhead, walk up the paved Topanga Tower Motorway. You will then hit a cross road one going to the right on a paved road toward the radio towers atop the summit. On the left is a wide dirt trail, follow this track along the ridge uphill and down to the lookout to reach the beautiful location that is shown in this article.

You won’t be disappointed when you reach the top. The views are spectacular especially on a clear day and it’s an optimal place for photos.

Hope you are able to enjoy this hike, but in the mean time onwards and upwards to the next adventure.