Zuma Ridge Trail

Great views of Point Dume! Worth the climb.

The wide fire road was in great condition today, even after recent rains. Muddy in a few spots but nothing crazy. Enjoyed the ocean and mountain views all the way up.

This hike is definitely a workout, a real leg burner going straight up for a good portion of it, but the payoff with those stunning 360-degree views from the summit makes it all worth it. We could clearly see Zuma Beach below and the coastline for miles. It was a bit muddy in spots from recent rain, but nothing impassable. Just wear appropriate footwear. Parking was a breeze, which is always a plus.

If you're looking for a serious endurance builder with incredible scenery, this is it. The Zuma Ridge Trail is a relentless uphill climb on a wide dirt service road, so don't expect any flat sections to catch your breath. However, the views over the Santa Monica Mountains and the vast Pacific are truly captivating and unfold throughout the entire hike. No shade means it gets hot, even in late fall, so absolutely pack more water than you think you need and a good hat.

Exposed but beautiful, especially with wildflowers.

Visited on a clear day, views of the Malibu coastline were exceptional. The steady elevation gain makes for a good cardio session. Saw plenty of wildlife too.

Got an early start to beat the heat, and it was perfect. The path is all uphill but very rewarding. Parking was easy at the Ridge-Canyon lot.

A truly beautiful day out on the ridge. The trail was in pristine condition, and the wildflowers were still clinging on in some of the more verdant spots, adding splashes of color to the otherwise dry landscape. The steady elevation gain makes it a fantastic challenge without being overly technical, perfect for a refreshing afternoon hike. The expansive ocean views, with Point Dume standing out, were the highlight. Very few bugs and hardly crowded at all.

Perfect steady ascent for a trail run. Dog friendly!

Came out for a trail run and wasn't disappointed. The wide fire road offers fantastic footing, making it ideal for a steady, challenging ascent without technical obstacles. We had a great time enjoying the clear mountain air and expansive views of the Malibu canyons and ocean. Even shared the path with a few friendly dirt bikers. It's a great spot if you're looking to push your cardio without having to navigate tricky terrain.

This trail truly lives up to its name with constant ocean views. No shade whatsoever, so prepare accordingly. Excellent for building endurance with its consistent climb.

I love this trail for a challenging but rewarding run. The consistent uphill grade on the fire road is fantastic for training, and the views are just unbeatable. You can see all the way down to Zuma Beach and across the expanse of the Pacific. On a clear day, it feels like you're running into the clouds. There's not a single patch of shade, so hydration is key. Great conditions, no bugs to speak of during my morning run.

Came here with the family and our dog (on leash, of course!). Everyone enjoyed the wide path and the amazing vistas. The kids loved spotting the various wildlife, and we even saw some late-season wildflowers. It’s a consistent uphill, but the gentle gradient means it’s not too strenuous for younger hikers if you take breaks. Absolutely essential to bring plenty of water and sunblock, as the exposure is significant the entire way up.

Amazing ocean vistas, but bring water. No shade!

This trail delivered exactly what I hoped for: a solid workout with incredible rewards. From the moment you step out of the car at the Ridge-Canyon Access lot, you're greeted with a steady incline. The wide fire road makes for comfortable hiking, and the lack of shade is easily offset by the constant breezes and unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean and the dramatic rock formations. Definitely go early to beat the heat, especially during warmer months.

Such a gem in the Santa Monica Mountains! Easy to navigate fire road, offering sweeping views from Zuma Beach. A great spot to bring the dog for an on-leash adventure.

Fantastic views all the way up, even on a slightly hazy day. This fire road offers a relentless but manageable climb, providing an excellent workout with rewarding ocean panoramas as you gain elevation. It's wide enough that passing others, whether on foot or bike, is never an issue. Just remember your sun protection and water, as there's no escape from the sun once you're on the ridge.

fire road path, easy to follow. good workout.

This trail is an absolute delight if you’re prepared for the sun! The path is a wide, well-maintained dirt service road, making it easy underfoot. What truly makes it special are the continuous, sweeping views—you're always looking out over the ocean or into the vast canyons of the Santa Monica Mountains. The steady climb builds good endurance, and we even encountered some deer. Definitely hit this one in the early morning for cooler temperatures and fewer people.

Good workout on a wide trail. Saw a few mountain bikers but sharing the path was no problem. The ocean breeze was a welcome relief on the exposed sections.

The wildflowers were out in force, adding vibrant color to the exposed ridge. It’s a pretty consistent climb, but the well-maintained surface makes it manageable for all skill levels.

such a good hike when its overcast, otherwise super exposed. literally no shade. great views though, the ocean looks amazing from up there and you can see point dume really clearly. the fire road is wide which is nice for sharing with other hikers and bikers. parking was fine when i went late morning.