Peter Strauss Ranch

Santa Monica Mountains

Distance: 1 mile
Duration: 1 hour
Elevation Gain: 100 feet
Difficulty: 1 (highest 5)
Season: All Year Round
Recommended rating: 3 (out of 5)

Outline

• Introduction
• The History of Peter Strauss Ranch
• Hiking at Peter Strauss Ranch
• Fun Activities for Families
• Getting to Peter Strauss Ranch
• FAQ
• Links & Resources

Introduction 

Peter Strauss Ranch is a scenic 65-acre hill located in Malibu Creek State Park, offering visitors a unique and charming hiking experience. With its lush forest and picturesque creek, the Ranch provides a perfect setting for a family day out in nature.

History of Peter Strauss Ranch 

The Malibu Lake area, where Peter Strauss Ranch is located, has a rich history dating back to the indigenous Chumash tribe and the establishment of the Spanish Mission. The Ranch was once owned by Harry Miller, who invented the car carburetor in the early 1900s.

However, the Ranch’s most famous owner was Peter Strauss. He bought the property in 1976 after being impressed by the natural scenery while filming the TV mini-series “Rich Man, Poor Man” on Lake Malibu. Strauss shot to stardom playing the novel and wise older brother Rudy Jordache in the series, co-starring Nick Nolte as the rebellious younger brother.

Strauss was a passionate environmentalist who wanted to preserve the area’s natural beauty. He sold the Ranch to the Santa Monica Mountain Management Office, which later became a state park and was opened to the public. Today, visitors can enjoy the Ranch’s scenic trails and take in the historic sites that dot the landscape.

Hiking at Peter Strauss Ranch 

The hiking trails at Peter Strauss Ranch are easy and suitable for families with young children. Before you start your hike, you must cross the creek in front of the parking lot. The middle part of the creek is submerged in water, so you will need to go down a little to the left and cross using the ‘stone stepping bridge.’ Once you cross the stream, you will find a playground and picnic area to relax and enjoy the scenery.

From there, you can easily access the entrance of the hiking trail, which leads you through a thick oak forest. As you walk along the path, you will be surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

After hiking for a while, the road will split into two, and you should take the right path that leads to the Ranch House. Walking for about half a mile, you will come across an outdoor performance area where you can glimpse the Ranch House and a large swimming pool.

Fun Activities for Families 

Peter Strauss Ranch is an ideal destination for families with young children. The hiking distance is short, and plenty of picnic areas and play facilities exist. Kids will love exploring the creek and spotting the diverse wildlife that calls the Ranch home. The Ranch also hosts various events throughout the year, such as outdoor concerts, arts and crafts fairs, and guided hikes.

Getting to Peter Strauss Ranch 

Peter Strauss Ranch is conveniently located just a short drive from Los Angeles. Take 101 Fwy North and get off at Las Vergenes Road to get there. Then, turn left onto Mulholland Hwy and drive for about five miles until you see the Ranch sign on the left.

Conclusion

Peter Strauss Ranch is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its rich history, picturesque scenery, and family-friendly hiking trails, the Ranch is perfect for a relaxing day in nature. Whether looking for a leisurely walk in the forest, a picnic with family and friends, or a fun-filled day with your kids, the Peter Strauss Ranch has something for everyone. So pack your hiking shoes, grab your picnic basket, and head out to the Ranch for a day you will remember.

FAQ

• What is the difficulty level of hiking at Peter Strauss Ranch? The hiking trails at Peter Strauss Ranch are easy and suitable for families with young children.
• Is there an entrance fee for visiting Peter Strauss Ranch? No, there is no entrance fee for visiting Peter Strauss Ranch.
• Are dogs allowed on the hiking trail at Peter Strauss Ranch? Yes, dogs are allowed on the hiking trail but must be on a leash.
• Is there a picnic area at Peter Strauss Ranch? Yes, there is a picnic area available at Peter Strauss Ranch.
• What is the best time to visit Peter Strauss Ranch? The best time to visit Peter Strauss Ranch is during the fall and winter, when the lush greenery changes into beautiful shades of oranges and yellows.

Links and Resources

• Malibu Creek State Park: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=614
• Chumash Indian Museum: https://www.chumashindianmuseum.com/
• Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy: https://www.smmc.ca.gov/