Zuma and Trancas Canyons

Zuma! It is derived from the Chumash word for “abundance.” Certainly, Zuma and neighboring Trancas Canyons satisfy this description. The perennial streams running through these canyons give rise to an abundance of animal and plant life. These same natural resources have influenced and given rise to a long and rich cultural history.

While venturing through the canyons, look and listen for the signs of life around you. Walk carefully along the trails and discover tracks of deer, rabbit and coyote. Marvel at the delicate homes of funnel web spiders hiding in the earth’s tiny crevices. Listen for the shy wren­tit, the “voice of the chaparral.” Though rarely seen, its call sounds like a ping­pong ball echoing throughout the canyon. Marvel at the profusion of springtime wildflowers.

Activities

• Hiking
• Horseback Riding
• Mountain Biking
• Dog walking
• Wildlife Viewing

Directions

Zuma Ridge Trailhead: Pacific Coast Hwy to Busch Drive (near Zuma Beach). Go north on Busch Drive until it ends.

Zuma Canyon Trailhead: Pacific Coast Hwy to Busch Drive (near Zuma Beach). Go north on Busch Drive. Turn right on Rainsford Place. Turn left on Bonsall Drive. Parking lot at end of road.

Newton Canyon Trailhead: Ventura Fwy (101) to Kanan Rd. South on Kanan past Mulholland Hwy. Paved pullout is about 1.75 miles south of Mulholland on right, just north of Tunnel One.

Site Map

Zuma/Trancas Canyon

Good to Know

Parking	Yes	The Kanan Trailhead parking lot fills up quickly on weekends. An overflow parking lot is approximately ¼ mile north, along Kanan Dume Road.
Restrooms	Yes	Zuma Ridge Trailhead: No Zuma Canyon Trailhead: Yes Newton Canyon Trailhead: Yes
Water	Yes/No	Only at Zuma Canyon Trailhead: Yes (horses and dogs)
Pets	Yes	Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash not to exceed 6 feet at all times and under control. Please clean­ up after your dog.
Accessibility	No	Two of the three parking lots are unpaved.
Cell Service	Yes/No	Depends on cell service provider. Unreliable cell service in the backcountry.