Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
246.00 ft (74.98 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
3.20 mi (5.15 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Zuma Canyon Trail is a 3.2-mile out-and-back trail through Zuma Canyon in the Santa Monica Mountains Recreation Area. The sandy trail begins at the Zuma Canyon Trailhead and heads north through the canyon. This region is home to many native plants, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, sycamore, oak and willow trees, which provide cool shade in the hot summer months. The area is also an important habitat for native wildlife including deer, rabbits, coyotes, hawks, rattlesnakes, lizards and more.

This trail is rated moderate and is suitable for running, hiking, and horseback riding (bicycles are not permitted on the trails in lower Zuma Canyon). 

TRAILHEAD

Zuma Canyon Trailhead is located at the end of Bonsall Drive, north of Zuma Beach. It features a dirt parking area, picnic benches, water, and restrooms. There is no camping at the trailhead and the park closes at sunset. 

WATER

The national park service does not recommend drinking from streams in the area. Visitors should plan to bring sufficient food and water. 

PRECAUTIONS

Potentially hazardous plants and animals that are common to the area includes:

  • Ticks

  • Bees

  • Rattlesnakes

  • Poison Oak

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

National Park Service: 1-805-370-2301, https://www.nps.gov/samo/contacts.htm

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Riparian Environment. Canyon Views.

Cons

Can get hot in the summer.

Trailhead Elevation

81.00 ft (24.69 m)

Highest point

305.00 ft (92.96 m)

Features

Vault toilet
Wildlife
Big vistas
Geologically significant
Bird watching
Horseback riding
Potable water

Typically multi-day

No

Suitable for

Horseback

Permit required

No

Location

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