The best walks and hikes around Simi Valley

Yes, Simi Valley has several options for easier walks suitable for families. A great choice is the Autumn Ridge & Long Canyon Trail loop, which is a relatively short walk through open space. The trails in Tapo Canyon Regional Park also offer a variety of terrains, including some less strenuous paths perfect for a family outing.

For hikers seeking a strenuous challenge, the Santa Susana Mountains provide several difficult routes. A particularly demanding option is the Chumash Trail & Rocky Peak loop. This long trail involves significant elevation gain and rewards hikers with expansive views. The terrain in this area is often steep and rugged, requiring good fitness and preparation.

Many trails in Simi Valley are dog-friendly, but it's important to keep them on a leash and bring plenty of water, especially on warm days. Rocky Peak Park is a popular area for dog-walkers, though the terrain can be rocky and steep. Always check the specific regulations for the park or trail you plan to visit.

While most Simi Valley trails are known for their dry, rocky landscapes, you can find a waterfall nearby. Paradise Falls, located in the neighboring Wildwood Regional Park, is a popular destination. It's a 40-foot waterfall accessible via a network of hiking trails that are generally considered easy to moderate.

The landscape is defined by the rugged Santa Susana Mountains. You can expect to hike through rolling, chaparral-covered hills, oak woodlands, and dramatic canyons. A key feature of the region is the impressive sandstone rock formations, particularly prominent on trails within Rocky Peak Park and along the Hummingbird Creek Trail.

There are several excellent hiking areas.

Rocky Peak Park is highly regarded for its panoramic views and challenging trails amidst spectacular sandstone boulders. For a unique experience, Corriganville Park offers trails that wind through the remnants of a historic Western movie ranch. Another popular spot is the Las Llajas Canyon Trail, known for its long loop and mountain vistas.

Both trails are challenging, but in different ways. The Hummingbird Trail loop is known for being quite steep and involves some scrambling over rocks. The main Rocky Peak Trail is a wider fire road but features a relentless, steady climb to the summit. Both require good hiking shoes and a solid level of fitness.

The trails in the Long Canyon and Lange Ranch Open Space area, such as the Long Canyon & Canyon View Trail loop, generally offer a more moderate experience. The terrain consists of rolling hills and wide paths with scenic views over the valley. These routes are a good option if you're looking for a solid hike that is less strenuous than the climbs to the peaks.

The region is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic vistas from the peaks and ridges, especially the views from the Rocky Peak area. The unique sandstone geology and the blend of natural beauty with Hollywood history at Corriganville Park are also frequently mentioned as highlights.

There is a wide network of trails to explore, with over 30 curated hiking routes available on komoot. These range from short, easy loops of under 3 miles (5 km) to difficult, all-day treks covering more than 9 miles (14 km) with significant elevation gain.

Yes, Simi Valley is a well-regarded destination for mountain biking. Many of the wider fire roads, like those in Las Llajas Canyon and parts of Rocky Peak Park, are popular with both hikers and mountain bikers. Always be aware of other trail users and yield when appropriate.

Hiking in Corriganville Park is like walking through a piece of Hollywood history. The park was once a movie ranch used for filming hundreds of Westerns. As you explore the trails through the chaparral and sandstone outcrops, you can discover remnants of the old film sets, offering a unique blend of nature and cinematic nostalgia.