The Complete Guide to the Sunset Peak South Trailhead

The Sunset Peak South Trailhead is one of the most popular hiking trailheads in the Santa Monica Mountains, providing access to stunning views and a challenging summit hike. This guide will provide everything you need to know to plan your hike from the Sunset Peak South Trailhead.

Overview of the Sunset Peak Hike

Sunset Peak rises to an elevation of 1580 feet in the Santa Monica Mountains northwest of Los Angeles. The summit provides 360 degree views from the Pacific Ocean to downtown LA and the San Fernando Valley. There are two main trailheads to access Sunset Peak – the Sunset Peak North Trailhead and the Sunset Peak South Trailhead.

The hike from the Sunset Peak South Trailhead covers about 4 miles roundtrip with around 1500 feet of elevation gain. It’s considered a moderately difficult hike, doable for fit beginners. The trail winds through chaparral and coastal sage scrub, with the payoff being phenomenal views from the summit.

Getting to the Sunset Peak South Trailhead

The Sunset Peak South Trailhead is located in Pacific Palisades off Sunset Boulevard. To get there:

• From Santa Monica, drive north on Pacific Coast Highway/Highway 1 and turn right on Sunset Blvd.
• From central LA, take the 10 freeway west and exit at Pacific Coast Highway heading north. Turn right on Sunset Blvd.
• Drive about 2.5 miles north on Sunset Blvd until you see the trailhead parking on the right.

Parking at the trailhead lot is limited so an early start is recommended, especially on weekends. If the lot is full, you can park a short walk away on nearby streets.

Note: A parking pass is required to park in the trailhead lot. You can obtain a free Adventure Pass from the REI store in Santa Monica or purchase an America the Beautiful pass online.

When to Hike Sunset Peak

The Sunset Peak hike can be enjoyed year-round, however spring, fall and winter are the best times to hit the trail.

• Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures, wildflowers, and green hillsides.
• Fall (September to November) is also a lovely time with fewer crowds than spring.
• Winter (December to February) can provide crisp weather and clear views, but avoid rainy days.
• Summer (June to August) is the most challenging season with hot temps and minimal shade on the exposed fire roads. Start early and carry plenty of water if hiking in summer.

Ideal weather conditions for the Sunset Peak hike are cool temperatures around 60-70°F, low wind, and clear skies. Check the forecast before you go.

The Hike from Sunset Peak South Trailhead

Once you arrive at the Sunset Peak South Trailhead, you’ll begin hiking on the gated fire road that starts at the southeast end of the lot. The wide dirt road winds gradually uphill with some rocky and eroded sections. You’ll pass through chaparral and oak woodland with periodic breaks in the trees providing ocean views.

At about 1 mile from the trailhead, you’ll reach a junction with the Backbone Trail. Stay right following signs for Sunset Peak. The grade gets steeper over the next mile. As you climb higher, the vegetation transitions to sage scrub. The final half mile to the summit is moderately steep with some switchbacks.

The fire road ends at the broad, rocky summit with a USGS marker denoting the peak elevation. Take time to soak in the panoramic views! On clear days you can see the skyscrapers of downtown LA, the Pacific Ocean, and as far west as Catalina Island.

From the summit, you can return the way you came for a 4 mile out-and-back hike. Or extend your hike by connecting to the Backbone Trail which traverses the entire Santa Monica Mountains range.

Always stay on marked trails and be aware of mountain bikers sharing the route. Poison oak is common, so wear long pants and watch where you step. Bring plenty of water since none is available at the trailhead or along the hike.

What to Bring on the Hike

To be prepared for the Sunset Peak hike from the south trailhead, make sure you pack:

• Water – at least 2 liters. It’s a dry hike.
• Sun protection – hat, sunglasses, sunscreen.
• Sturdy shoes – trail runners or hiking boots.
• Layers – the temperature can change as you gain elevation.
• Snacks/lunch – trail mix, energy bars, sandwiches.
• Map/directions – cell service is spotty on the trail.
• Trekking poles – optional but helpful for the descent.
• Camera – for beautiful summit views.

Know Before You Go

A few last tips for enjoying the rewarding hike to Sunset Peak from the south trailhead:

• Arrive early for parking – space is very limited.
• Pack out all trash – help keep the trails clean.
• Dogs allowed on leash.
• No camping or fires permitted in the area.
• Adventure Pass required – purchase in advance online or at REI Santa Monica.

With proper preparation, the Sunset Peak South Trailhead hike offers epic ocean views and a challenging summit push through classic Santa Monica Mountain scenery. The journey rewards hikers with a sweeping panorama at the top. For those up for the trek, it’s considered one of the top hikes in the LA area!

Conclusion

The hike to Sunset Peak from the south delivers epic ocean views without extreme difficulty, making it a standout trail for soaking in the beauty of the Pacific Coast. With convenient access from Los Angeles and challenging but attainable uphill terrain, the route appeals to hikers of varying ability levels. Just be sure to prepare with proper footwear, sun protection, and adequate water. For those willing to put in the work to reach the top, the panoramic summit rewards all the effort. Sunset Peak should be on every LA hiker’s bucket list!

Frequently Asked Questions