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Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation AreaSnowy Egret plumes on 1900s hats almost led to their extinction, instead it led to the first protective bird laws in the country.
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During inclement weather...

For info & updates on trail conditions & parking restrictions contact the NPS Visitor Center at 805-370-2301. Get up-to-date info on Twitter.
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See Yourself in Your National Parks:
America's Best Idea

As the days get longer and start to warm, sycamore shaded canyons, willow edged streams, and cool beaches become favorite spots in the Santa Monicas. In his new documentary, to be aired on public television in September, Ken Burns reveals how National Parks are America's Best Idea. Take a moment to explore and share what makes these unique places so important to the fabric of America. 


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The Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest and Music Festival is held yearly at Paramount Ranch. In this image, a trio of players--fiddle, guitar, and banjo-- jam at the old western town movie set.

Upcoming Events!



There are plenty of Things to Do in the Recreation Area. Find out more...

 
National Public Lands Day Logo for 2008

Volunteer Opportunities in the Park

You can make a difference in your national parks! Learn how you can volunteer:

College Internships
Help Kids Learn and Assist Visitors

 
Sunset is an image taken by Spirit of the Mountains Participant Jim Gross.

The National Park Service & Its Partners Provide Beautiful Sites from Mountains to Ocean
 
A ranger talks to three visitors at Solstice Canyon near the amphitheater.

Find out "What we are doing!"

Are you wondering if all the park sites are open? Would you like updates on recent studies and articles about the park? Would you like recommendations for great hikes and special events?

Here's your chance to get live updates from rangers in the recreation area. Visit our Virtual Bulletin Board on Our Facebook Fan Page or on Twitter. It is a free service.

 

 

Write to

401 West Hillcrest Drive
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Center
(805) 370-2301

Headquarters
(805) 370-2300

Fax

(805) 370-2350

Climate

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is in a Mediterranean climate region-- known for long hot summers and mild wet winters. Milder temperatures exist along the Pacific Coast. Temperatures tend to warm up as you travel inland. Get current weather.>>
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Backbone trail hikes lead to views of mountains, canyons, and the Pacific Ocean.  

Did You Know?
Piece by piece, a trail is forging its way along the "backbone" of the recreation area. California State Parks took the first step toward a 65-mile Backbone Trail in 1978. With 5 miles left to go, single track trails and fireroads will unite this patchwork of public parklands from east to west.

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Last Updated: June 22, 2009 at 02:50 EST