The best running trails in the Santa Monica Mountains

Embark on the Century lake and Mesa Peak loop from Calabasas for a challenging jogging experience through the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. This difficult route spans 14.3 miles (23.0 km) and demands a significant effort, with 2735 feet (834 metres) of elevation gain. As you jog, you will encounter diverse terrain, from wide dirt motorways to more technical single-track sections, all within the scenic Malibu Creek State Park. Look forward to panoramic ocean views as you climb towards Mesa Peak and discover the serene Century Lake along the way. Expect to complete this rewarding workout in about 2 hours and 55 minutes. You will also see impressive sandstone formations on the Backbone Trail.

Before you head out, be aware that this is considered a hard run, so you should have very good fitness. Parking is generally available at the trailhead in Calabasas, making access straightforward. However, it is important to note that dogs are typically not permitted on certain parts of the Mesa Peak trail, so always check current local regulations before your visit. Planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable jogging adventure.

This trail offers more than just a workout; it provides a deep dive into the natural beauty of the region. You will jog through varied landscapes, including lush oak and sycamore woodlands that line Malibu Creek. The route's combination of challenging ascents and diverse scenery makes it a notable option for those seeking a rigorous outdoor activity in the area. It is a perfect choice if you are looking for a substantial and scenic jogging challenge.

The San Vicente and Ocean Avenue Loop offers a difficult jogging experience, stretching 13.2 miles (21.2 km) with an elevation gain of 553 feet (168 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 2 hours and 15 minutes. As you jog, you will pass iconic coral trees and luxury homes along San Vicente Boulevard, leading to the scenic bluff-top path of Palisades Park. Here, you are treated to continuous Pacific Ocean vistas, framed by a straight line of palms and numerous overlook points.

This route is a popular and accessible jogging spot, conveniently located near Santa Monica, Westwood, and Brentwood. While you do not need any specific permits, be aware of the elevation profile; the consistent downhill gradient on San Vicente towards Santa Monica means you will face a significant uphill climb on your return. Plan your start time to enjoy the best conditions, especially if you want to catch a sunrise over the ocean.

What makes this loop unique is its combination of urban greenery and stunning coastal scenery, offering a dynamic workout. The route effectively blends the wide, tree-lined median of San Vicente with the dramatic ocean views from Palisades Park. This contrast provides both a challenging physical activity and a visually rewarding journey, setting it apart from other local jogging options.

The Temescal Canyon Loop Trail offers a moderate jogging experience, covering 3.5 miles (5.6 km) with an elevation gain of 805 feet (245 metres), typically completed in about 47 minutes. You will move from wide dirt paths into narrower, uneven sections, winding through shaded canyon floors filled with oak and sycamore trees. As you ascend to the open ridge lines, you can enjoy panoramic views of Los Angeles and the Pacific Ocean from the Ocean Overview Lookout. On clear days, you might even spot Catalina Island in the distance.

Before you head out, be aware that parking at the trailhead typically requires a fee. You will find convenient facilities like toilets and water available there. If you plan to bring your dog, remember they are welcome in the lower canyon but not on the main loop once the trail enters Topanga State Park. It's a good idea to check conditions, especially after rain, as the seasonal Temescal Canyon Falls can be a highlight.

This popular route provides a rewarding workout within Temescal Gateway Park, offering a diverse landscape for your jogging adventure. The trail's varied terrain, from shaded canyons to exposed ridge lines, makes it a dynamic experience. Keep an eye out for the seasonal Temescal Canyon Falls, which are particularly impressive after significant rainfall. This trail is a local favorite for its accessibility and scenic rewards.

If you're looking for a consistent and scenic jogging route, the Westlake Lake 10k loop delivers. This moderate 6.3-mile (10.1 km) route, which takes about 1 hour and 2 minutes to complete, offers continuous views of the expansive 125-acre man-made lake. You'll enjoy mostly paved surfaces, winding past lush greenery and elegant lakeside homes, creating a serene urban oasis perfect for a steady run with only 118 feet (36 metres) of elevation gain. It's a great option for those seeking popular trails with a beautiful backdrop.

Parking for the Westlake Lake 10k loop is available in the surrounding neighborhoods, making access straightforward. To beat the heat and crowds, especially during warmer seasons, aim for a morning jog. The route is enjoyable year-round, and you'll find several lakefront restaurants and cafes nearby, perfect for grabbing a refreshment after your workout.

What makes this route stand out is its unique blend of natural beauty and residential charm, setting it apart from other trails in the region. As a well-maintained path designed around a large, beautiful man-made body of water, it provides an ideal setting for outdoor activity. Its gentle terrain makes it particularly appealing for jogging for beginners, while still offering a satisfying workout for all skill levels.

Embark on the Crags Road and High Road Loop for a moderate jogging experience through Malibu Creek State Park. This route spans 6.4 miles (10.3 km) and involves a total elevation gain of 565 feet (172 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 13 minutes to complete. As you jog, you'll move through varied landscapes, from shady oak and sycamore woodlands to sunnier chaparral-covered hillsides. Keep an eye out for the picturesque Malibu Creek Rock Pools, a notable landmark along the way, and enjoy the views of volcanic rock gorges. You'll also catch expansive vistas looking out over the Las Virgenes Valley and Malibu Canyon.

When planning your jogging trip, you'll find parking readily available within Malibu Creek State Park, which serves as the trailhead for this loop. If you plan to bring a pet, remember that dogs are generally allowed in day-use areas and on paved roads, but usually prohibited on backcountry trails; always check current park regulations. Be mindful of potential natural hazards such as rattlesnakes, poison oak, and ticks, especially during warmer months. Staying on the clearly marked trails is always recommended for your safety and to protect the natural environment.

This loop offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse ecosystems of Malibu Creek State Park, a region known for its rich natural history and striking geological formations. The trail follows Malibu Creek, allowing you to appreciate the tranquil scenic pools formed by the creek's flow through ancient volcanic rock. The park itself is a significant natural preserve, providing a vital habitat for local wildlife and a popular outdoor destination for those seeking a refreshing escape near the coast.

The Ray Miller and Overlook Trail Loop in Point Mugu State Park delivers a challenging and visually rewarding jogging experience. This difficult 10.7-mile (17.2 km) route, with its 2203 feet (671 metres) of elevation gain and estimated 2 hours and 18 minutes duration, offers incredible panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean from the Ray Miller Trail, and expansive inland vistas of Sycamore Canyon from the Overlook Fire Road. The terrain shifts from well-maintained singletrack to less rugged fire road, providing a varied workout for advanced joggers.

Plan your visit by arriving early to secure parking, which is available in a paid lot or sometimes along the Pacific Coast Highway. Be prepared for a sustained climb and carry ample water, especially during warmer months. It's also wise to be aware of potential hazards such as poison oak, ticks, and rattlesnakes, which are more prevalent in summer and fall.

This loop forms part of the extensive trail network within Point Mugu State Park, known for its diverse landscapes including coastal sage scrub and oak woodlands. The Ray Miller Trail itself is the westernmost section of the 68-mile Backbone Trail, a significant multi-park trail traversing the Santa Monica Mountains. Note that dogs and bikes are generally not permitted on the Ray Miller Trail.

Embark on the Zuma Ridge and Canyon Loop, a difficult jogging route spanning 10.5 miles (16.9 km) with a significant 2607 feet (794 metres) of elevation gain. This challenging journey, estimated to take around 2 hours and 14 minutes, offers continuous, sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the vast Santa Monica Mountains. You will traverse broad ridgelines, looking down on Zuma Beach and Point Dume, before descending into the quiet canyon bottoms, where a seasonal creek can create a lush, jungle-like atmosphere after rain. The trail combines fire roads with well-maintained singletrack, providing a varied and engaging experience for serious joggers.

To plan your visit, access the trail easily from Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Malibu, with trailheads located at the end of Busch Drive and Bonsall Drive. Be prepared for the climb up Zuma Ridge, which is continuous and largely exposed, offering very little shade. It is crucial to carry ample water, especially if you are jogging during the warmer summer months. You might also encounter equestrians along the way, as this route is popular with horse riders.

This route stands out as a rewarding experience within the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, known for its vigorous workout potential and incredible vistas. The