Residents and travelers will find this comprehensive guide essential to locating an amazing number of hiking trails throughout the 50-mile-long Santa Monica Mountains. The range parallels the coastline in southern California, dividing the Pacific coast from the interior valleys. Included are 138 day hikes, with an additional section of 13 hikes that traverses the full length of the 68-mile Backbone Trail. 496 pages with clear trail descriptions, ample maps, index. All hiking levels.

Nature is just around the corner in the City of Angels

Discover the magic of the Santa Monica Mountains! "Consult the Santa Monica Mountains Trail Guide and just moments later you'll know where to go for a fun outdoors adventure," declares author John McKinney. "These mountain trails will uplift your spirit." Santa Monica Mountains Trail Guide is a collaboration between author John McKinney, former Los Angeles Times hiking columnist and author of 20 books about hiking and Tom Harrison, California's premier mapmaker, long admired for his easy-to-read and accurate maps of the state's parklands. The only range to bisect a major U.S. city, the Santa Monica Mountains boast a splendid scenic diversity with fine trails leading through woodlands, canyons, foothills and mountains. John McKinney's proven trail accounts, along with Tom Harrison's trusted maps will help you select-and take-a quality hike you're guaranteed to like. Santa Monica Mountains Trail Guide features: Colorful stories, clear maps, easy-to-follow directions Best hikes for waterfalls, wildflowers, mountaintop vistas Best hikes for families, friends, out-of-town guests Nature walks, moderate hikes, all-day adventures Enjoy hikes on classic trails and brand-new pathways in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, plus all you need to know about the trails in Will Rogers, Topanga, Malibu Creek, Leo Carrillo and Point Mugu state parks. Saunter to the M*A*S*H movie and TV location near the magnificent gorge sculpted by Malibu Creek, hike a length of the majestic Backbone Trail that extends 65 miles across the mountains, chill-out at waterfalls in Temescal Canyon and Zuma Canyon, enjoy fabulous wildflower displays at Nicholas Flat and at Malibu's Charmlee Park.

Easy-to-use new guide to the best hikes in the Santa Monica Mountains: Topanga, Malibu Creek, and Point Mugu state parks, Inspiration Point, Sandstone Peak, the M*A*S*H site, and more. Hikes feature waterfalls, wildflowers, breathtaking views, and more. Complete with colorful stories, trusted trail accounts, clear maps and directions.