Hiking along the Topanga Lookout Trail to this massive graffitied concrete slab, jutting out miles above Red Rock Canyon Park below, will make you feel like you’re standing at the edge of the world. The former fire observation tower is reminiscent of the Sunken City with its striking contrast of colorful tags juxtaposed with a rich natural landscape. Except, here, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of canyons instead of the crashing waves of the Pacific. [Featured Image: @hikingwithsun]
At 2,375 feet above sea level, it takes you to one of the highest vantage points in the Santa Monica Mountains and there are few places that match a sunset at Topanga Lookout Trail. But the good news is, most of that elevation can be covered in your car if you’re going via Saddle Peak Road’s trailhead. The trail is a 2-mile round trip and will take you roughly an hour to complete.
Your entire journey will offer opportunities to take in the spectacular surroundings of the Santa Monica Mountains, Calabasas, and Santa Susana Mountains. To get there you’ll need to make your way to the Backbone Trail and Stunt Road crossroads. You can also start at Vista Point and take the Topanga Lookout Trailhead via Topanga Tower Motorway, depending on what time you go, you might even be walking amongst the clouds at this altitude.
It’s worth noting that there are a number of ways to get there (which you can find here) offering different sites and terrain to traverse. However, no matter what route you take will cost you absolutely nothing and you’ll be able to bring your four-legged friends along too.
Location: 23300 Saddle Peak Rd. Calabasas, CA 91302 (you may find that Google Maps has marked the lookout as “Rosas Overlook”)
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Featured Image: @hikingwithsun