Mishe Mokwa to Ray Miller

The Mishe Mokwa to Ray Miller Trail is a 15.5-mile hike or trail run through the Santa Monica Mountains, about an hour's drive from Los Angeles. This route features rugged landscapes, panoramic ocean views, and diverse ecosystems. It is a moderately challenging point-to-point trail that follows singletrack and dirt road paths and requires advance shuttle arrangements. This area is a popular recreation destination for hikers, backpackers, mountain bikers, and trail runners.DESCRIPTIONStarting at the Mishe Mokwa Trailhead, the hike begins with a steady ascent through chaparral-covered hillsides and rocky terrain, eventually reaching a junction with the Backbone Trail. The Backbone Trail, a major trail in the Santa Monica Mountains, offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. As you follow the Backbone Trail towards the Ray Miller Trailhead, you'll traverse rolling hills and enjoy expansive vistas of the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands, and Malibu coastline. The final descent towards the Ray Miller Trailhead is gradual, passing through coastal sage scrub and oak woodlands. The trail ends at the Ray Miller Trailhead, where you'll find parking and access to restrooms.FLORA FAUNAAlong the trail, you'll encounter chaparral shrubs such as California sagebrush, toyon, chamise, and colorful seasonal blooms of ceanothus. In the Santa Monica Mountains, you might spot wildlife including mule deer, bobcats, and coyotes. The region is also home to various bird species, smaller mammals like the Western gray squirrel, and diverse reptiles such as the southern Pacific rattlesnake.CONSIDERATIONSWater: Plan to carry enough water for the entire journey.Sun Protection: Wear sun protective clothing, as much of the route is exposed with little shade.Transportation: This is a point-to-point hike, so arrange for a shuttle or have a car at both trailheads.Summer temperatures can be extremely hot.TRAILHEADS1. Mishe Mokwa Trailhead: Located off Mulholland Highway, this trailhead is a popular starting point for hikes in the Santa Monica Mountains.2. Ray Miller Trailhead: Situated at the end of Ray Miller Trail Road, near Point Mugu State Park, it provides access to trails with panoramic coastal views and is a key entry point for various hikes in the region.