Los Liones Trail
- Location: Topanga State Park, between Malibu and Santa Monica. From Santa Monica, take the Pacific Coast Highway and turn right on Sunset Boulevard. Go 0.3 miles on Sunset, take a left on Los Liones and drive half a mile to the end of the street. Park on the right side of the street in the lot across from the church.
- Agency: Topanga State Park
- Distance: 2.6 miles
- Elevation gain: 600 feet
- Suggested time: 1.5 hours
- Difficulty Rating: PG
- Best season: Year round
- USGS topo map: “Topanga”
- More information: here (trip report to Parker Mesa Overlook); Everytrail report here
- Rating: 6
This is a scenic and enjoyable trip in the little-used southern end of Topanga State Park. The Los Liones Trail starts just off of Sunset Blvd. and quickly gets hikers into a quiet canyon where there are few signs of civilization; it’s pleasantly secluded, especially for being in the more populated eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains.
From the signed trail head, head into the canyon. The trail ascends steadily, occasionally over rocky terrain. The trail is somewhat overgrown in places, although never too badly. As you get higher, the trail clings closely to the side of the canyon, resulting in some steep drop-offs that may make some hikers a little nervous.
Nice views of the ocean and the nearby peaks of Topanga open up as you near the top of the trail. At 1.3 miles, the trail enters a clearing just before the Topanga Fire Road, where you can sit on a bench and enjoy a panoramic ocean view before heading back down. Ambitious hikers can continue by heading left on the fire road, which leads to the rest of Topanga State Park. The Parker Mesa Overlook, 2.5 miles away, is a popular destination.
Text and photography copyright 2011 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. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.
Can check this one of my list now. Hiked to Parker Mesa Outlook on Saturday. Thanks for all the trail write-ups!
You’re welcome, glad you’re getting out there and checking off the trails!