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

    Santa Monica Mountains

    National Recreation Area California

There are park alerts in effect.
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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 »

Climbing

A view of the Echo Cliffs from the Mishe Mokwa Trail. Here climbers from around the world visit to experience the nation's largest urban national park.
A view of the Echo Cliffs from the Mishe Mokwa Trail. Here climbers from around the world visit to experience the nation's largest urban national park.

The Santa Monica Mountains close proximity to Los Angeles has made it a preeminent destination for rock climbers of all skill levels. Local crags, from Echo Cliffs to Malibu Creek State Park, increase in popularity every year. With this in mind, the National Park Service and outdoor enthusiasts must work together to ensure these spots remain enjoyable and unimpaired for future generations.

Here there is something for everyone to enjoy. Unique volcanic geology, various plant communities, wildlife viewing possibilities, and world class climbing opportunities all await those visiting from afar or those on day trips from the surrounding Ventura and Los Angeles areas.

Climber scaling the face of a rock at Echo Cliffs.

Preparation

Every effort is made to protect the park's natural resource, cultural assets, and wilderness values. To ensure success in this mission, some degree of preparation is demanded on your part. Knowing the necessary gear, planning your routes, and utilizing good climbing techniques will make your park experience an enjoyable one and a responsible one.

Use the links to the right to educate yourself about recommended sites, areas that are closed to climbing, etiquette and climber safety.

  • Closures and Regulations Closures and Regulations

    Find out about park regulations and what's closed to climbing. Read More

  • Climbing Ethics & Safety Climbing Ethics & Safety

    Climbing safety & ethics go hand and hand. Let's work together to ensure that these climbing areas remain open to everyone. Read More

  • Recomended Sites Recomended Sites

    What are the best places to climb? Check this page out for more information. Read More

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.