Sunset from the Summit Motorway
Text and photography copyright 2010 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.
Summit Valley
- Location: Off of Topanga Blvd in the Santa Monica Mountains. From Santa Monica and Malibu, take Topanga Canyon Boulevard (highway 27) north for about 8 miles. Just past Santa Maria Road, at a big curve in the road, look for a dirt parking lot on the left side and park there. From the Valley, take highway 27 south. The parking area is on the right, 2.6 miles south of Mulholland. Parking is $5 per car.
- Agency: Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
- Distance: 2.2 miles
- Elevation gain: 500 feet
- Difficulty Rating: PG
- Suggested time: 1.5 hours
- Best season: All year, but hot in the summer
- USGS topo map: Canoga Park
- More information: here
- Rating: 6
The short–but somewhat steep–hike through Summit Valley in the Edelman Park area of the Santa Monica Mountains is a good, quick workout on its own, and can also be combined with bigger hikes once it reaches its destination, the Summit Motorway dirt road.
The trail dips down into a canyon, crosses a stream, and then begins a quick climb up a couple of switchbacks to a ridge. There is a little bit of shade from some walnut and eucalyptus trees, but this part of the trail can be strenuous on a hot day. But the climb is short, and once you reach the top of the ridge, the route levels out, soon reaching the Summit Motorway. To the east (right), the road leads back to Topanga; to the left, it heads deeper into the Santa Monica Mountains, allowing for a longer hike if you have the time and energy.
