Lost Cabin Trail
Malibu Creek State Park
Distance: 6.2 miles
Duration: 3 hours
Elevation Gain : 700 feet
Difficulty: 2 (highest 5)
Season: all year round
Recommended rating: 4 (out of 5)
Outline
- Introduction
- Activities and Attractions
- Hiking Trail Guide
- Visitor Center and Rock Pool
- Directions to Malibu Creek State Park
- FAQs
- Links & References
Introduction
Malibu Creek State Park is a beautiful natural area located just north of Los Angeles. It was opened to the public in 1976. It has since been steadily expanding its area to preserve the natural beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains. This state park is spread over approximately 10,000 acres of land and offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to camping, fishing to bird watching, Malibu Creek State Park has something for everyone.
Activities and Attractions
Malibu Creek State Park is well-known for its diverse activities and attractions. One of the biggest draws of the park is hiking. With miles of hiking trails that wind through the mountains and valleys, visitors can explore the park’s natural beauty at their own pace. The park also offers camping facilities for those who want to spend a night under the stars. Additionally, fishing and bird watching are popular activities in the park.
Before it was turned into a state park, 20th Century Fox Pictures owned Malibu Creek. It was used as a filming location for numerous movies and commercials. The park gained even more popularity when it was used as the filming location for the TV drama MASH, which was based on the Korean War. Visitors can still see traces of the MASH set in the park.
Hiking Trail Guide
If you’re planning to hike in Malibu Creek State Park, you must pay an additional $1 and the admission fee and pick up a map at the entrance.
Once you have your map, park your car in the second parking lot from the door and start hiking along the trail across the road. If you climb up the wide, gentle slope to the right of the visitor center, you’ll have several hiking trails to choose from.
The Lost Cabin Trail is one of the best hiking trails in the park. This trail follows Craigs Road and turns left before the MASH filming site. As you hike along this trail, you’ll be surrounded by sandstone and volcanic stones, which create a unique and beautiful atmosphere.
Visitor Center and Rock Pool
After your hike, stop by the visitor center and the Rock Pool. The visitor center has exhibits of taxidermy animals that are the area’s habitat. It also provides information about the life of the native Chumash Indians. The Rock Pool is a beautiful and serene spot with reeds, rocks, and maple trees lining the tranquil waterside. It’s the perfect place for families to take a break and relax.
Directions to Malibu Creek State Park
To get to Malibu Creek State Park from LA, head north on the 101 Fwy and get off at Las Vergenes Road. Turn left and drive 3.5 miles to the park on the right.
FAQ
- What is the admission fee for Malibu Creek State Park? The admission fee for the park is $12 per vehicle.
- Are dogs allowed in the park? Yes, dogs are allowed in the park, but they must always be on a leash.
- Are there any picnic areas in the park? Yes, the park has several picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a meal or a snack.
- Is there a fee to camp in the park? Yes, there is a fee to camp in the park. The fee is $45 per night for a standard site and $65 for a premium site.
Links & References
Here are some helpful links to learn more about Malibu Creek State Park, the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, and California State Parks:
- Malibu Creek State Park Official Website: For more detailed information about Malibu Creek State Park, including hours of operation, fees, rules and regulations, and available activities, visit the official website at http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=614.
- Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area Official Website: The official website of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, which includes Malibu Creek State Park, offers information about nearby attractions, activities, and accommodations. Visit the website at https://www.nps.gov/samo/index.htm.
- California State Parks Official Website: To learn more about all California state parks, including Malibu Creek State Park, check out the California State Parks official website. This website provides information about park passes, events, volunteer opportunities, and more. Visit the website at https://www.parks.ca.gov/.
