Zuma Canyon Loop

Zuma Canyon Loop is a 11.1-mile route located in Zuma and Trancas Canyons within the Santa Monica Mountains Recreation Area. The hike begins at the Zuma Canyon Trailhead and uses trails that extend from the Zuma Canyon Trail to provide a wonderful overview of Zuma Canyon. This trail is rated moderate and is suitable for running, hiking, and horseback riding (bicycles are not permitted on the trails in lower Zuma Canyon). 

Zuma Canyon is home to a wide variety of native plants and animals such as coastal sage scrub, deer, rabbits, coyotes, hawks, and more. The route is dominated by chaparral vegetation, whose low height leaves much of it exposed to the hot sun as well as providing scenic views of Zuma Canyon, the Santa Monica Mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. 

TRAILHEAD

Zuma Canyon Trailhead is located at the end of Bonsall Drive, north of Zuma Beach. It features a dirt parking area, picnic benches, water, and restrooms. There is no camping at the trailhead and the park closes at sunset. 

TRAILS USED

Zuma Canyon Trail → Ocean View Trail → Kanan-Edison Road → Zuma Canyon Connector Trail → Zuma Edison Road → Zuma Ridge Motorway Trail → Zuma Ridge Access Trail → Zuma Canyon Trail

WATER

The national park service does not recommend drinking from streams in the area. Visitors should plan to bring sufficient food and water. 

HEAT

A lack of shade and water makes portions of this trail extremely hot during sunny and warm weather. Visitors are advised to carry sufficient food and water, as well as sun protective clothing.

PRECAUTIONS

Potentially hazardous plants and animals that are common to the area includes:

• Ticks

• Bees

• Rattlesnakes

• Poison Oak

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

National Park Service: 1-805-370-2301, https://www.nps.gov/samo/contacts.htm.