Eagle Rock in Topanga State Park
Topanga, California
Details
Distance
5.99 miles
Elevation Gain
1106 ft
Route Type
Loop
Description
Added by Ben Lertsakdadet
This hike offers great panoramic views of Santa Monica Mountains from Eagle Rock. The trail is well-maintained and perfect for group hikes.
Eagle Rock is located in Topanga State Park in the Santa Monica Mountains, and it is a unique formation that provides an amazing panoramic view of Santa Monica. On a clear day, the Catalina Islands and Palos Verdes Peninsula are visible. You can park on along the street of Entrada Rd. or pay $10 to pay for parking inside Trippet Ranch (worth it in my opinion to support the park and the amenities it provides).
The hike itself is approximately 6 miles and can be extended if desired. The trail I would suggest starts at Trippet Ranch and begins on
- 1) Trippet Ln. towards East Topanga Fire Rd
- 2) Turn left on East Topanga Fire Rd. and head northeast towards Eagle Rock
- 3) Keep left to stay on East Topanga Fire Rd. at the Santa Ynez Canyon Trail junction
- 4) At the next major junction, take a right onto Eagle Springs Fire Road to begin the loop towards Hub Junction.
(I would recommend a slight detour (0.3 miles) at Hub Junction to climb up Cathedral Rocks for another panoramic view.)
- 5) Return back to Hub Junction and take Backbone Trail all the way to Eagle Rock.
- 6) After you're done exploring Eagle Rock, continue on Backbone Trail back to East Topanga Fire Rd.
I've been here twice and both times have had the pleasure of running into some widelife as seen in the photos. It's definitely one my favorite hikes in Southern California on a cloudy or comfortable day. I would not recommend it on a hot day because there is very little coverage from the heat. My last trip here I also tried geocaching to find some hidden "treasures" along the trail with my dad, which made the hike even more enjoyable. I'd recommend giving that a try as well if you haven't already!
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Eagle Rock in Topanga State Park Reviews
Loved this hike! Scenic, quiet, and beautiful views! Easy to follow trail. We parked on the street for free. Topenga Canyon is such a cool area in Southern CA!
5.0
I came here as a tourist and was captivated by the views and the stark beauty of the trail. It seems massive, so map out your course before you take off, and make sure to bring adequate water and sunscreen. The sun can feel relentless even when the clouds are out - there’s no coverage for you on this fun SoCal hike.
5.0
I agree with what others said. Take the Mulsch trail up to the rock and the fire road back down. Full sun for most of the final mile up to the rock. Full sun on the fire road back. Pay for parking (support the park!) or park for free on the side road. Stop at the weird costume/vintage store in Topanga canyon afterward.
4.0
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Nearby
Parker Mesa Overlook via Trippet Ranch
Santa Ynez Falls
The Labyrinth at Tuna Canyon Park
Red Rock Canyon to Calabasas Peak
Hike to Vanalden Vista
Top of Topanga Overlook
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