• 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 »

Spirit of the Mountains Photo Contest

5 Star Sunset by Greg Clure, 2011 Third Place Winner - Animals Category

5 Star Sunset  by Greg Clure, 2011 People's Choice winner.

Share the wonder of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area with other. Enter the Spirit of the Mountains Photo Contest. Let your photographic imagination capture the essence of this hidden jewel.

The Spirit of the Mountains Photo Contest is here!

For inspiration, take a look at some of the Past Photo Contest Winners that are linked here, sorted by year.

Please download the rules, regulations, and entry form for this year below.

Download the 2012 contest flyer and rules to share with your friends and family.

Map of the Santa Monica Mountains Zone

For questions about the contest, please e-mail us directly using the link below.

Contact Us!

Did You Know?

A community project led by the National Park Service has restored Zuma Lagoon.

Many hands spanning different generations and agencies continue to turn back the clock on damage to the fragile environment at Zuma Lagoon. After the removal of debris and the restoration of native plants, beach visitors now find a living wetland with 108 species of birds and colorful wildflowers.