Hiking the Santa Monica Mountains!

Wednesday, February 3rd, 2010 at 7:08 am

I am sitting here with the beginnings of a blister on my right foot, my legs are bit sore, and I have an exhaustion I haven’t felt in a while… BUT I love it all. Why?… because the other day (on a Saturday) I woke up early, headed up to Will Rogers State Park and went for a hike. Not just any hike. I started my day by heading up to Inspiration Point, which if you haven’t done – you must! I have made this hike numerous times with my family… an easy and enjoyable time for all.

But this day, I was going much further, I have done major (all day) hikes before so this was going to add to my experience – and boy did it! Although on my own… I recommend (as does the Park Service) going with a partner or a group for safety/security. There is a sign that suggests making noise as you hike to warn wildlife that you are coming – you don’t want to surprise them. I actually sang “do wa diddy” along the way, which was a bit uncomfortable when I met an oncoming jogger on the trail. :•)

Prior to my hike, I read about the trails in the Santa Monica Mountains, and am astonished at this absolutely beautiful terrain in our backyard. This east/west range is quite a gift to those of us on the Westside. A few minutes from home and you are in the great outdoors. The trek that I went on was about a 6.5 mile (13 round trip) portion of the unique Back Bone Trail. The entire trail travels roughly 60 miles along the Santa Monica Mountains from Will Rogers State Historic Park to Point Mugu.

While on my hike, just past Will Rogers, I came across a gorgeous view from the “bridge”. Continuing onward (and upward – I met add) I met a jogger, a hiker/backpacker and a mountain biker all before 9am. I stopped along the way to take in the views of downtown Los Angeles, the Getty Museum, the snow on the San Gabriel Mtns in the distance and also the flowers and berries and natural world that was just inches from every step. I also saw 5 small rabbits along the way. Tried to snap a photo – but they’re just to fast.

Traveling with a backpack of water, fruit, camera and trail map, I also met a team of amazing volunteers (Sierra club and others) working on trail maintenance. The views along the way are hard to explain with a few words or a photo. A large flat screen TV of this hike still would not share with you the 360 degree experience of sites, sounds and smells of this terrain. This time of year (winter months) are fantastic! The crowds seem less, the temperature is cooler, the terrain is varied from dry brush to lush green.

Please go explore, but do so with safety and knowledge. The info here is a bit out of date… but is a great place to learn more and contact those that know before you go.