• Afternoon clouds cover the distance peaks of the iconic Boney Mountain

    Santa Monica Mountains

    National Recreation Area California

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  • Partial Park Closure Due to Hazardous Conditions

    Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa re-opens 5/14/13, with restrictions (sunrise to sunset, not all trails). Sandstone Peak & Mishe Mokwa trails will also open, as will Backbone Trail east of Point Mugu State Park boundary. Point Mugu backcountry remains closed. More »

  • Trucks on Cheeseboro Canyon Trail

    Occasional truck traffic (approx 6 trips per day) will take place on Cheeseboro Cyn Trail weekdays between 8am & 4pm for demolition and removal of Cheeseboro Tank. Should be completed by 5/24/13. Check back for updates or call 818-889-8996. More »

For Kids

A ranger talks to students visiting the mountains about the flora of Leo Carrillo State Park.

Take an Amazing Cultural Journey

Travel through time on your computer. Explore the world of the people whose lives and way of life have changed the face of the Santa Monica Mountains.

Become a Junior Ranger

Earn your Junior Ranger Patch and pins while visiting the Santa Monica Mountains.

The Biodiversity Experience!

Take a virtual hike with Ranger Glen. Hiking from Boney Mountain to the Pacific Coast is an 8 mile journey through a pond, into a canyon, across a valley, and other habitats. There is a lot to see! Join Ranger Glen, the plants, and the animals of the Santa Monica Mountains on an adventure of discovery. Find out why Biodiversity is so important to all of us.

Let's Move Outside

Want to earn an extra award just for going outside and having fun? You can be a Let's Move Outside Junior Ranger just by visiting this park!

By completing the "Get Active!" Worksheet, joining a Park Ranger on a program, or taking your family to one of the many park sites, Junior Rangers can now receive an extra sticker designating them as a Let's Move Outside Junior Ranger. Ask a Ranger how to get active today!

Did You Know?

Franklin Canyon is a great place for natural and city views.

At the geographical center of Los Angeles is a national park site. At Franklin Canyon Ranch in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, you can see cityscapes and natural views. The recreation area extendes in an east-west direction running through the heart of the city.