Last Updated on Sep 23, 2025
The Mishe Mokwa Trail to Sandstone Peak is a thrilling journey through the rugged beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains, offering unforgettable views, fascinating geology, and a powerful sense of achievement. As you ascend to the highest point in the range at 3,111 feet, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean, inland valleys, and the jagged mountain skyline. Along the way, you’ll pass incredible landmarks like Balancing Rock, the serene Split Rock picnic area nestled in a canyon with seasonal springs, and the stunning Egyptian Rock formation. This loop trail is not just a physical challenge but a visual feast, with towering sandstone cliffs, winding paths through chaparral and oak groves, and stops like Inspiration Point, where the elevation and views take your breath away. It’s a hike that offers adventure, solitude, and some of the most photogenic scenery in Southern California—all within reach of Los Angeles.
At an elevation of 3,111 feet, Sandstone Peak is the tallest point in the Santa Monica Mountains—and the ultimate reward of the Mishe Mokwa Trail. From the summit, you'll take in panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the Channel Islands, the San Fernando Valley, and the rugged mountain landscape that surrounds you.
One of the most fascinating natural features along the trail is Balancing Rock—a massive sandstone boulder perched precariously on a narrow pedestal. This gravity-defying formation is a must-see and a favorite photo stop, showcasing the raw power of wind and water erosion over time.
Tucked deep in a canyon, Split Rock offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by oaks and seasonal creeks. This scenic picnic area features a massive boulder cracked in two, giving the spot its name. It’s the perfect place to rest, refuel, and reconnect with nature before continuing your climb.
As you climb out of the canyon, you’ll spot a uniquely shaped sandstone formation called Egyptian Rock. With its distinct pyramid silhouette, this geological wonder adds a mystical element to your journey and makes the trail feel like a real adventure through ancient terrain.
At 2,800 feet, Inspiration Point is a breathtaking overlook that lives up to its name. It's the perfect spot to catch your breath and take in expansive views of the coast, surrounding peaks, and winding canyons below. Many hikers stop here for sunrise or sunset for that extra magical moment.
The Mishe Mokwa Trail forms a satisfying 6-mile loop that offers a dynamic mix of terrain—from rocky ridges and shaded canyons to sun-drenched summits. It’s an ideal trail for hikers seeking diverse landscapes and non-repetitive routes with new sights around every turn.
The trail winds through a dramatic ravine lined with towering sandstone cliffs that glow golden in the sunlight. These ancient rock formations create a surreal, cinematic backdrop that feels miles away from the city—despite being just a short drive from Malibu and Ventura.
Throughout the year, the trail is alive with native wildlife like hawks, deer, and lizards, and in spring, it bursts into color with wildflower blooms. Keep your eyes peeled for California poppies, lupine, and vibrant yellow bush sunflowers that line the trail.
Thanks to its proximity to the Pacific, the Mishe Mokwa Trail offers refreshing coastal breezes and, in many places, sweeping ocean views. These cool winds provide welcome relief on warm days and make the hike more enjoyable, especially in the afternoon.
Located off Yerba Buena Road, the Circle X Ranch trailhead is a scenic and serene jumping-off point for your hike. With nearby access to additional trails and picnic spots, it’s a great place to begin or end your adventure through one of Southern California’s most iconic mountain trails.
Sandstone Peak, Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu
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Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu
