![]() ![]() With varied vegetation throughout, several overlooks along the way and a mix of exposed and shaded terrain, we think this route offers a great combination of features that are sure to please a wide range of hikers. With some of the most expansive views we’ve seen of Los Angeles and it’s coastline, there are few hikes that offer this type of experience while also being extremely accessible.Īfter scouting a couple different routes leading to Goat Peak, we chose to begin inside the popular Will Rogers State Park and follow the Backbone Trail as it ascends through Topanga Canyon State Park, where the majority of this hike will take place. While legendary status may be held for more well known peaks, we consider Goat Peak legendary in it’s own right and a gem amongst the many offerings of the Santa Monica Mountain Range. I hope you enjoy your date at Will Rogers State Park! Please like or share this article if it was useful to you.Long before the modern connotation of the word “ Goat ,” there was Goat Peak. Or, you can cut over down to Pacific Coast Highway and head toward Santa Monica and do stuff down there. You’ll find some cafés, coffee shops and restaurants there. AfterwardĪfter the easy hike, you can drive down Sunset further west to the small but charming downtown area of Pacific Palisades, about a mile away or so. If you time things right, you could be rewarded with a lovely view just before sunset. If you do the loop in the direction I’ve suggested, you’ll have some nice ocean views on the way down. There are a few picnic tables there, but they are often taken. View of Santa Monica from Will Rogers State Park View of Century City and Downtown LAĭefinitely take some time here to enjoy the view, take some photos, or have a snack. On a clear day, you can see Catalina Island, Santa Monica, Century City, and downtown LA. ![]() Inspiration Point offers a nice 360-degree view of the area and has some benches to reflect on the view. If you’re doing the loop in a counterclockwise direction as I’ve suggested, then a short distance past the Backbone Trail junction will be Inspiration Point (if you go the other direction, you’ll hit Inspiration Point first). It’s not too far from the loop: Backbone Trail BridgeĪfter you reach the bridge, or however far you want to go, simply turn around and return to the loop. I don’t suggest doing that, but if you want to extend your hike a bit, you can go up and back as far as you want.Ī good stopping point on the Backbone Trail is at the bridge (you can’t miss it). ![]() This is a trail that goes for the entire length of the Santa Monica Mountains. The trail offers a bit more shade than many of the other trails in the area Will Rogers Park Inspiration Loop Trail The Backbone TrailĪbout halfway up, there is an option to go off the loop onto the Backbone Trail. I like going to the right (doing the loop counterclockwise), because then you’ll get the ocean views on the way down the other side. Pick a direction to go and start up the Inspiration Loop Trail. This is an easy 2.6-mile hike that can be done in an hour or less, but you’ll want to pause at the scenic spots.įrom the large polo field, walk up the service road to the Riding Arena. The trail you’ll want to go on is the main trail, called Inspiration Loop. But, the park is also a great place to have a picnic, throw a Frisbee, or play soccer. The main attraction is the hiking trail, but you can also take a tour of the Will Rogers ranch house and take horse riding lessons Monday through Saturday. ![]()
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