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Viewridge Trail in the Santa Monica Mountains
4.9 ★★★★★ 26 Google reviews · Running trail in Topanga, California · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
We have not been able to confirm the surface, distance or shape of Viewridge Trail in the Santa Monica Mountains yet from its own listing, the park's website or runner reviews — so those cells stay blank rather than guess. What is below comes straight from the listing and from reviewers' own words. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Viewridge Trail in the Santa Monica Mountains
“Excellent views and easy hike for anyone with friends or a family!”
Great trail with a lot to offer on the short trek. Trail features a tree swing, a bridge, a bench at a lookout point and the sounds of running water can be heard along the trail from the small stream it follows 3.5 miles round trip, slight elevation gains. Nothing too difficult while still providing a lot to see
Easy access to some shorter hikes/runs, but also a good put-in for some longer treks. Pics are from one of the many small shady canyons in the area with some beautiful old growth oak trees.
One of the best trails that I’ve been around. Parking is available across the street. We hiked 3 miles and didn’t get to the end. Easy hike but not good for disabled people. Dogs are allowed but on leash. Now (April) full of flowers.
Extremely interesting short run for anybody who loves trail running in the Santa Monica Mountains. From Viewridge the trail runs downwards towards Santa Maria, passing a few landmarks other people have described. Once at Santa Maria I normally run a few hundred feet towards TCB and then up on Summer Hill Ranch Rd.
Trail conditions & character
“Once at Santa Maria I normally run a few hundred feet towards TCB and then up on Summer Hill Ranch Rd.”
Plan your run at Viewridge Trail in the Santa Monica Mountains
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
Running trails near Topanga
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Serrania Park
4.4 ★★★★☆ 524 reviews
Large park featuring wooded areas & grassy lawns, plus a playground, hiking trails & toilets.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
4.3 ★★★★☆ 11 reviews
Top Of Reseda Trailhead
4.7 ★★★★★ 220 reviews
Popular mountain park known for hiking trails, views and picnic spots.
Trippet Ranch
4.7 ★★★★★ 258 reviews
This ranch in Topanga State Park serves as a starting point for a number of hiking trails.
