Sycamore Scenic Loop Trail
Hike through coastal beauty in Malibu, offering flexible trails with stunning ocean vistas and nearby camping.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Sycamore Scenic Loop Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through coastal beauty in Malibu, offering flexible trails with stunning ocean vistas and nearby camping.
"Unforgettable views and a well-maintained trail that feels like a different world."
Choose Your Adventure
Opt for the scenic trail for a shorter hike or the longer loop for a more immersive experience.
Parking Fees
Visitor parking costs $12/day or $3/hour. Street parking is also an option.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Coastal Viewpoint
Scenic Trail
Stunning ocean vistas await at this elevated bench, offering a breathtaking panorama of the Pacific coastline.
Sycamore Canyon Loop
Main Trail
A longer, more challenging option for hikers seeking a deeper immersion in the natural beauty of the area.
Creek Crossing
Lower Trail Section
Navigate a charming small creek, adding a touch of adventure to your hike near the trailhead.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Length & Difficulty
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Choose Your Adventure
Opt for the scenic trail for a shorter hike or the longer loop for a more immersive experience.
Parking Fees
Visitor parking costs $12/day or $3/hour. Street parking is also an option.
Trail Conditions
Expect some steep sections and steps on the scenic trail.
Dog Policy
Dogs are not permitted on the trail, and be mindful of unpicked-up waste.
Tips
from all over the internet
Choose Your Adventure
Opt for the scenic trail for a shorter hike or the longer loop for a more immersive experience.
Parking Fees
Visitor parking costs $12/day or $3/hour. Street parking is also an option.
Trail Conditions
Expect some steep sections and steps on the scenic trail.
Dog Policy
Dogs are not permitted on the trail, and be mindful of unpicked-up waste.
Scenic Views
The trail offers beautiful ocean views and a nice breeze from the coast.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Sycamore Scenic Loop Trail for its stunning coastal views and the flexibility to choose between a short, scenic hike or a longer, more challenging loop. The well-maintained paths and refreshing ocean breeze are frequently highlighted. However, some find the trail challenging for young children, and the strict no-dog policy and occasional issues with unpicked-up waste are noted drawbacks.
"A wonderful hike that you can either make short or long, depending on which trail you choose. I chose the scenic trail that gives stunning views of the coast and is relatively short. I’d say about 1-1.5 hour round trip depending if you chose to take in the scenery or not. It’s great if you’re also short on time. Once you see the sign that is on the left side, not facing you, you’ll reach a fork with 3 routes. I chose the one on the left. You feel like you’re on edge of the world at the top. The scenic trail was hilly. So expect to go up and down once you’re at the top. You can either park on the street or in the small visitor parking lot ($12 for the day or $3 per hour). There are also campgrounds on site. When you check in at the kiosk, the middle road, as if going straight, has the trailhead entrance. But to park in the paid visitor lot, you have to make a left, drive up that road and make another left. The only reason for the 4 star review is because there are no dogs allowed on the trail. Due to a traumatic life experience with dogs, I am deeply afraid of dogs and I can’t really control my panic attacks when there are dogs near me. I try to find hikes where there are no dogs allowed but there were several off their leash in the trail the day I went. And tons of unpicked up dog poop everywhere as well. Unfortunately for me I can’t yet control my reactions, so as wonderful as the hike and scenery was, I won’t go back. If you are able to enjoy it, I do recommend. Happy hiking!"
Lesly Gutierrez
"This is a really nice hike that is about 0.7 miles from the trailhead along the Scenic Trail to a great viewpoint/bench. It is less than 400 feet or elevation gain, but is steep with steps at some points. There's a small creek that you will have to cross over as well near the bottom of the trail. Keep in mind that you do have to pay for parking near the campsite below, however if you don't mind an extra walk you can park on PCH just west of the sand dune."
Mayur Patel
"Great Place to Bike, Hike, and Run. A very family friendly place with trails that aren't too difficult. And the absolute best views of PCH!!"
Glenn Guevarra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is accessible via the middle road at the Sycamore Canyon Campground kiosk. You can also park on PCH just west of the sand dune if you don't mind a longer walk.
Yes, the Sycamore Scenic Loop Trail is located in Malibu, California, within Point Mugu State Park. +1
The address for Sycamore Canyon Campground is 9000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265.
Yes, the trails are great for biking and running, offering beautiful views of PCH.
The Sycamore Canyon Campground, which is near the trailhead, accommodates tents and RVs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Parking in the visitor lot costs $12 for the day or $3 per hour. Street parking is also available.
While the trail itself is free to access, there are parking fees associated with the visitor lot.
The trail is generally accessible during daylight hours. Campground hours may vary.
Reservations are typically needed for the Sycamore Canyon Campground, especially during peak seasons.
No, dogs are not permitted on the Sycamore Scenic Loop Trail.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail offers varied difficulty. The scenic trail is moderately hilly with steps, while the longer loop can be more challenging.
The scenic trail to the viewpoint is about 0.7 miles one way, making it a 1-1.5 hour round trip. Longer loop options are available.
Yes, restrooms are available at the entrance along with camping areas and other facilities.
While some find it family-friendly, others note it can be challenging for younger children (under 7-8) due to narrow trails and steep sections.
You can expect stunning coastal views of the Pacific Ocean and a refreshing ocean breeze.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour lighting for capturing the coastal scenery.
The main viewpoint on the scenic trail provides unforgettable, dramatic coastal shots.
Drone usage may be restricted in state parks. It's best to check Point Mugu State Park regulations before flying.
Capture rugged coastline, ocean vistas, and the natural beauty of the sycamore canyons.
The edge-of-the-world feeling at the top of the scenic trail is a popular photo spot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
🏕️ Campers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Camping at Sycamore Canyon Campground
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. The campground's proximity to the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) makes it easily accessible, and it's a great base for exploring the surrounding Malibu area.
While camping, you're ideally situated to access the Sycamore Scenic Loop Trail and other hiking opportunities within the park. It's a fantastic way to extend your visit and fully immerse yourself in the coastal environment.
Hiking the Sycamore Scenic Loop Trail
For those seeking a more extensive trek, the Big Sycamore Canyon Loop Trail provides a longer, more challenging route. This option allows for deeper exploration of the park's natural beauty and is recommended for experienced hikers.
It's important to note that dogs are not permitted on the trail, and visitors are urged to be respectful of the environment by cleaning up after their pets.
Social
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