Near Mishe Mokwa Trail
Balanced rock, viewable from afar as well as up close like this. Very cool landmark.
Near Mishe Mokwa Trail
On the trail to Balancing Rock.
Near Mishe Mokwa Trail
Carlisle Canyon facing east from Echo Cliffs
Near Mishe Mokwa Trail
Hanging Rock above the Echo Cliffs on a cloudy day
Near Mishe Mokwa Trail
Path against side of mountain. Has small amounts of running water coming down mountain, making trail muddy

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Mishe Mokwa Trail

4.4 (5 Ratings)
Hike along hillsides and through canyons in the Santa Monica Mountains.
2.7
mi
Distance
656
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Geologically SignificantRiver/CreekSpringViews

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
2.67mi
Distance
656ft
Elevation Gain
326ft
Elevation Loss
60%
Max Grade
2,712ft
High Point
2,200ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
This trail starts at the end of a fire road that makes up the first portion of the Sandstone Peak Loop. When the fire road comes to an end 3/10 of a mile from the trailhead and parking area the Mishe Mokwa Trail begins. The trail gains elevation as it winds around the hillsides of Boney Mountain. Along the way you'll have the chance to catch some views of Triunfo Pass, the historic Chumash trail. The Mishe Mokwa Trail eventually levels off before descending to Carlisle Canyon. At this point there are good views of Balanced Rock. Moving along the trail will take you further into the canyon to Split Rock, which is home to a picnic area, creek and spring. Leaving Split rock you'll rise out of the canyon and at the highest point you'll see a pyramid-shaped rock called Egyptian Rock straight ahead. Following the trail along it will eventually come to an end soon as it runs into the Backbone Trail, roughly 1.3 miles from the Split Rock Site. Thanks to John McKinney, The Trailmaster, for sharing this trail description. To learn more about trails in California, check out his guides at The Trailmaster Store.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
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Contributors
John McKinney