The best running trails in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve

There are nearly 100 running routes in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve, offering a wide range of options for different fitness levels and preferences. The preserve spans over 5,600 acres with an extensive trail system.

The preserve offers a variety of running trails suitable for different skill levels. You'll find a few easy routes, but the majority are moderate (over 60 routes), with a significant number of challenging options (around 27 routes) for more experienced runners. The terrain includes rolling hills and canyon bottoms, providing varied elevation changes.

Yes, there are several easier options. For instance, the Victory Trailhead – Mary Weisbrock Loop Trail is a moderate 4.4-mile path that is often praised for its accessibility. The Mary Weisbrock Loop Trail itself is wide and smooth, suitable for various skill levels, with options for shorter, less strenuous runs.

While running, you can enjoy views of unspoiled California landscapes, including coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and oak woodlands. From higher points, you'll get breathtaking panoramic views of the Santa Monica Mountains, the San Fernando Valley, and Las Virgenes Canyon. The preserve also encompasses the headwaters of Malibu Creek.

Spring, particularly from early March to April, is an excellent time to visit due to the vibrant wildflower blooms, including California and fire poppies, lupines, and mariposa lilies. The preserve offers beautiful scenery year-round, but spring adds an extra layer of natural beauty.

Yes, the trails in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash and ensure you follow all posted regulations to protect the wildlife and natural environment.

The preserve is a vital ecological linkage and wildlife corridor, so you might spot various species. Common sightings include red-tailed hawks and mule deer. You may also observe goats and sheep used for fuel reduction. It's also home to endangered species like the California red-legged frog and Southwestern willow flycatcher.

Yes, loop routes are available. A popular option is the Laskey Mesa loop, a moderate 5.7-mile trail offering stunning views. Another is the Mary Weisbrock Loop Trail, which provides a 4.9-mile moderate run through varied open space.

Access points include the Victory Trailhead at the western end of Victory Boulevard in West Hills, and the Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Trailhead at the northern end of Las Virgenes Canyon Road in Calabasas. Parking is available, with a $5 fee at the Victory Trailhead. Free parking can often be found outside the gates in surrounding residential areas.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the serene and picturesque environment, and the panoramic views of the Santa Monica Mountains and San Fernando Valley. The extensive trail system also offers options for all abilities.

The preserve has a rich history, having been home to the Chumash Native American tribe for thousands of years. The rugged scenery also made it a popular filming location for Westerns and other motion pictures from the 1920s to the 1950s. The El Escorpión Trail, for example, passes through Moore's Canyon and near the historic Cave of Munits.

Absolutely. For those seeking a longer and more challenging run, the Las Virgenes Creek – Mary Weisbrock Loop Trail offers a difficult 10.3-mile route with significant elevation gain, providing a strenuous workout through varied open space.