Near Zuma Ridge/Canyon Loop
Traversing the Canyon View Trail overlooking Malibu and the Pacific Ocean
Near Zuma Ridge/Canyon Loop
The view from Zuma-Edison Fire Road looking east
Near Zuma Ridge/Canyon Loop
Zuma-Edison Fire Road offers visitors great views of Zuma Canyon and the ocean beyond.
Near Zuma Ridge/Canyon Loop
The Santa Monica Mountains cast a shadow near the Zuma Canyon Trailhead in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Zuma Ridge/Canyon Loop

4.1 (19 Ratings)
A couple of hardy climbs on fire roads above Malibu will reward you with stunning ocean views and serene canyons.
10.9
mi
Distance
3,524
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
ViewsWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
10.92mi
Distance
3,524ft
Elevation Gain
3,524ft
Elevation Loss
70%
Max Grade
1,822ft
High Point
109ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
A mildly challenging loop easily accessed from PCH in Malibu. There are two trailheads: one at the end of Busch Drive, the other Bonsall Drive, both with parking (take your pick.) This loop can be done in either direction. Going clockwise, follow the Zuma Ridge Trail to where it meets the Zuma-Edison Fire Road. Turn right and go around the closed wire gate. Descend all the way to the end, passing the equestrian watering station, to the bottom where the trail will lead you across the creek on your right. This is the beginning of the second long climb. After a long left-hand turn, you'll take the singletrack Zuma Canyon Connector Trail on your right. It is easy to miss but it is marked. If you find yourself going up the top of the ridge over Kanan-Dume, turn around. Follow the singletrack in a long, steady descent for about 2 miles then take a hard right up and over to the Canyon View Trail. Alternatively, you can also continue straight down to the Ocean View Trail. There are trail signs at this junction.At the bottom, turn left then right to return to the Busch Drive Trailhead or hike straight ahead if you came from Bonsall Drive. The trails loop in this area so it is easy to get turned around. There are trail signs and probably more than a few people so you know you are close to the trailhead(s).For more info, see Jerry Schad's "101 Hikes in Southern California".

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Perry Cortell