It's closed due to the massive fire but I can't sit idly by while this spectacular place gets 1-star reviews for stop sign enforcement. The woodsy section is nice but there's a more open part with stunning mountain and ocean views. And you can get here by bus!!! While Temescal recovers please support your local hiking trail. read more

See all

Update 08-01-2026 .. not closed... one trail is closed the bottom access trail, but the upper trail is open. So the statement on the website is wrong star rating is around 4.0 to 4.25 Parking lot is ample but pricey - 12$. Automated kiosks are available. One lot in front one in the middle and extra parking in rear. As of aug 1 2026, the lower trail temescal is closed must use upper trail temescal Canyon ridge. Unfortunately, the lower is close and fenced off, but did see people try to use the rear side to sneak.in..please people respect the park..its closed because humans have wrecked the area and needs time to repair itself The challenge level for hikes or walks or runs is medium to high. Some areas are difficult, loose rock and gravel plus steep up and down hills. The views are spectacular, the trails are challenging... no ebikes... missing items would be non working water fountains and the closure of the main trail, for the waterfall area. Plus, open spaces for picnics are available- foropen sports - a small creek - and various options in trails. As all trails will meet up at the recreation area - links up to the rojas canyon trail - the temescal ridge - skull rock ridge - viewpoint ridge read more

See all

Good park. Solid hikes. Gets busy on the weekends. May spot celebrities. Connects to Topanga canyon and Will Rodgers

This hike is very busy during the weekend but fairly empty during the week. Counter clockwise it is shaded until you get to the waterfall and then open sun with little shade for the next half. I was surprised that this year the waterfall was still flowing in June as it's usually dried up by this time. The hike is about 3.5 miles but I'd recommend adding Skull Rock which adds about an extra mile. Currently the stretch of trail to Skull Rock is very overgrown with wild mustard and other brush. There were a lot of bees in these bushes, I was really scared to get stung by a bee going through this part. On the return the second half of the trail has great vast views of the ocean and coast down to Palos Verdes. This part feels very Southern California. read more

See all

Never had a bad hike, some trails say no dogs but I always see them, I think as long as you respect the grounds they respect you and your decisions. I've also parking at the bottom park for picnics. Never once a bad experience, outstanding views!!! read more

Temescal Gateway Park - Parks Near Me - Pacific Palisades, California

10/26/22. This review is for the Temescal Canyon Loop Trail to the waterfall, not out and back. We chose to go counterclockwise because of other reviews, but that was definitely more difficult than going clockwise. The upside is you get to feel the ocean breeze while walking up and also complete the hardest part in the beginning and can coast after reaching the top. This route also has less shaded areas vs the other side, although there are small spots where you can find shade scattered on the way up. Sadly the "waterfall" was bone dry and looks like it has been like that for awhile. Overall a really enjoyable moderate hike in the Pacific Palisades close to Palisades High School. I say moderate because the entire hike is uphill no matter which way you go, so it's more of a leg burning fitness hike than a scenic or remote hike. Parking is available for $12 in the dedicated parking lot or there is free parking on Sunset. I would suggest parking near the Camp Shop a little further up from the first parking lot you see when entering. It's closer to the trails and the larger picnic area. Also I'm not sure why but dogs are not allowed. It took us 2.5 hours because I am recovering from an injury, but if I didn't have that issue it would be easy to complete it in 90 minutes. Bring bug spray because the flies and gnats chewed on me the entire hike. read more

See all

This is one of my favorite hikes in Los Angeles. With gorgeous views, and moderate - challenging inclines, what's not to like? There's paid parking, but also ample free, and walkable, street-parking nearby. If you take the time to head out here, you should also carve out time to stop off at Will Roger's State Beach off of PCH nearby - you wont regret it! read more

Temescal Gateway Park - Temescal Canyon Hike. - Parks Near Me - Pacific Palisades, California

See all

Temescal Gateway Park located in Pacific Palisades is great for walking the trails, relaxing in the park or spending overnight camping. I have been here a few times for meetings and retreats. The cabins are basic but clean. The meeting rooms are spacious. The camp grounds are ideal for walks, yoga and hiking. read more

Temescal Gateway Park - Strategy Retreat - Parks Near Me - Pacific Palisades, California

If you're looking for a hike thats mostly shaded, and still feels like you're in a slight jungle, then this spot is for you. They have two parking lots, but you do have to pay for parking which is $12 per vehicle, and yes they do have someone who drives around checking cars and giving out tickets if you don't have a parking ticket. There are multiple trails, three I believe. But I only took the main trail to get to the waterfall. If you want to avoid crowds, then I HIGHLY suggest coming early, anytime before 10-11AM and you should be good, because otherwise, the parking lots fill up QUICKLY after that time. It takes about one hour to get to the waterfall, and about 30mins to get back down depending on your speed. Halfway up is very slightly incline, and the remaining half is a steep incline with very rocky roads. Most definitely not stroller friendly and not for small children unless you're going to be carrying them up and down. I love that you don't have to come right after a rainfall, because it will definitely be very muddy! The waterfall is consistently ongoing, and its definitely beautiful and relaxing up there! Overall, a great hike for everyone! P.S. If you're prone to slipping easily, bring hiking sticks to help you! read more

Skull Rock was amazing. This trail gets your heart pumping in the first 20 minutes and on a number of inclines throughout. While the sun didn't come out till we finished, the trail was beautiful, the grounds were kept extremely clean, and the other hikers were ALL lovely. The views and lookout points are amazing (even on a cloudy day) and helpful for that heavy breathing too :) There are a few different options at the park. Some options for kids would be to the right of the path that starts with the "stairs". Tip: watch your footing & make sure to wear shoes with traction if you're going all the way up. read more

Temescal Gateway Park - Parks Near Me - Pacific Palisades, California

This is the 2nd time I've been to Temescal Gateway Park. The first time visiting my friends took me on a nice hike with some good scenery and that wanna get away environment. We ended up going to a look out point that showed the Pacific ocean very nicely. The next time visiting, I brought a friend that I wanted to show the same look out. Unfortunately we never made it but ended up going on an adventure. I enjoyed our trip as it was fun and semi-challenging. Instead of making a turn at the fork we went straight and felt like we're walking home towards the 27 hwy. Next time I visit I would like to make that turn at the fork and catch a sunset hike. Parking: $12 or meter outside of the property. VERDICT: Rinse and repeat read more

See all

This hike is not for the weak! I would consider this moderate/extreme activity; however, it is a beautiful hike- steep climb through the shaded oak and sycamore canyon to ridge top panoramic view of the Pacific coastline. Talk about an amazing view. Parking is $12. My group and I began the hike at 7:30a on a Sunday, and it wasn't crowded. Towards the end of our hike, that's when the crowd came. It took us about two hours to complete the hike. Would I hike it again? Hmm, I don't know. Maybe lol. My legs were sore for days! read more

Temescal Gateway Park - Parks Near Me - Pacific Palisades, California

Gorgeous view. Can't believe it burned down, according to news maps at least. But if it did burn can't wait for it to grow back! Nature will win read more

Casual single track hike with ocean views. This is a family friendly hike and right off the PCH. We took a loop by heading up from Temescal Ridge Trail and came down the Temescal Canyon Trail. The trail is mostly exposed so be sure to wear sunblock and bring enough water! There is some shade, but not a ton. The views are really pretty, as you can see the vast expanse of blue ocean as well as the skylines of Century City and DTLA. There is a small "waterfall" that's more like a brook, but there were some families eating lunch there. There are signs saying that dogs aren't allowed but we saw people flouting that. It's open during covid and I'm glad to see that most people wore masks. It's $12 to park and you can pay via credit card. Otherwise, you can try to find street parking on Temescal Canyon Rd (but be sure to read the street signs! Parking tickets in Malibu are not cheap). The park is also a good spot to throw a frisbee or take a leisurely walk. read more

See all

Hiked to and from Skull Rock which is worth a look. It took about 3 hours and recommend if you like uphill hikes. It felt like an intermediate hike and not for beginner. Definitely not for kids. You need to be prepared with water and good hiking shoes. The trail signs say no dogs but people bring their dogs anyway. Just be prepared to bring water for your dog and pick up after them. Parking all day is $12 all day but if you come early you can grab street parking. read more

Temescal Gateway Park has beautiful trails to explore. I haven't been here for a while, but I would love to come back. I'm happy to pay the parking fee to use and support the private park and private trail system. If you visit, MAKE SURE to stop completely at all stop signs, even those without cross roads or painted cross walks. I had a $100 private property "stop sign camera" ticket sent to me the last time I visited. I posted a question in Yelp communities trying to figure out if they are still using stop sign cameras, but it was removed. read more

I have been hiking here for years and have brought countless friends here for over a decade. I am appalled at the FACT that many friends of mine including myself have a gotten a SURVEILLANCE ticket for a stop sign that shouldn't even be there! I will be creating a petition and telling everyone I know of this level of greed. The ticket is not from the city, I suggest you never pay the ticket. It does not make any sense. It's from the park itself and whomever owns the cameras. Until then, I will be gathering signatures for this atrocious SURVEILLANCE system that they have implemented. I suggest all people BOYCOTT this park until justice is served. read more

Loved it so much! I have to say this is one of my favorite hikes. I'm my opinion I throughly it was pretty easy. I went on my birthday after brunch and it was so refreshing to be up there. It was a nice hike to the top to appreciate another year around the sun. I saw many people such as couples, single hikers and families with children. If you're not from here or you are, make the trip out here for this hike! read more

Sooooo we parked at the park & walked to the hike trail (it was about a mile walk to the hike trail) Definitely a great hike for beginners! About 3.4 mile hike (give or take) definitely wear comfortable shoes & pack water. took us about 2 1/2 hrs to complete (more or less)?Walking up was way more challenging than walking down. Paths are pretty clear for the most part there are a few areas where plants have grown out into the walk way.. nothing too crazy though. Paths are made up of dirt/rock combo, watching your step is crucial.. wrong movements & that foot will slide, and that ankle will twist! A lot of pretty flowers! A lot of crawling & flying critters! We encountered one beehive in a bent over leaning tree. Plenty of soothing sounds like birds chirping & running water. The waterfall is so pretty. Don't recommend drinking the water (because of the algae). Be careful when entering the waterfall, the rocks are super slippery and maneuvering around then is a little bit of a challenge. Definitely enjoyed this hike, do recommend! read more

See all

The hike wasn't too strenuous. The only thing is the walk way is a little narrow so if you go with a friend you would need to walk in a single file line. I would recommend starting on the left side. It begins at a decent incline and there's barely any shade but there's shade on the way down. There is a bathroom at the base and it's pretty clean. Parking is $10 and there is a stop sign entering the lot. DO STOP! read more

See all

I'm relatively new to the West side of LA and wanted to try a new hiking trail. I read reviews of Temescal Gateway Park here on Yelp and decided to give it a try. I am so glad I did! We did the waterfall hike and unfortunately there was more of a light stream than a waterfall due to the high temperatures and never-ending drought we face here in LA. However, I would still highly recommend this hike. It is not "easy." I would label it more moderate and was a good challenge for my friend and I. Most of the hike is relatively shady and not terribly steep. The last 0.4 or so of the hike to the waterfall was mostly uphill, without much shade, which can be a bit rough in the heat, but we made it. Pro tip: If you have a cooling towel, bring one. I forgot mine at home and wish I hadn't. Also, I chose to wear trail shoes instead of just tennis shoes -- great call. The terrain isn't too challenging, but definitely easier to navigate in my trail shoes than tennis shoes. Parking in the lot is $12 for the day. We turned around and found a spot on Sunset for free. read more

Lovely hike. Would recommend going early before the sun comes out as it gets super hot of course. Great location with the beach nearby to relax at after. read more

Temescal Gateway Park - Parks Near Me - Pacific Palisades, California

Great hiking trail. Spectacular views, watch out for the rattle snakes also $12 parking dogs are not allowed there but ppl take their dogs on a leash anyway. read more

See all

This is my second time here. It is a moderate trek with nice views and a depending on the the season there's a waterfall. There is a pretty decent incline on your way up the hill where you find a great view of the ocean, the hills and the Palisades. It takes about 30-45 minutes to summit if you are a moderate hiker and keep a good pace. The terrain is a mix between packed dirt and loose rocky terrain so you have to have good traction on your shoes/boots. There is a $10 parking lot that leads into the trail. For free parking park on Temescal Canyon Rd rather than in the lot for the park. There are bathrooms and a friendly Ranger on the site so it is accommodating when you first arrive. You have to bring lots of water, sunscreen, and a hat because most of the trail not shaded. It gets hot there so you have to be aware that there are rattlesnakes that are trying to get heat from the sun. This is not a dog-friendly trail because the sun can be extreme and the exposure to snakes and lizards are risky. This is a great trail. There are breath-taking views every 5 minutes on the way up and the peak offers a 360 view of Santa Monica, Malibu, vineyards, and LA. There's so much to see and it's a great place to appreciate what LA and the west side has to offer. read more

Temescal Gateway Park - Put on the brakes and avoid the . - Parks Near Me - Pacific Palisades, California

See all

A pretty decent hike if you're just looking to get away from the city/suburbs. Views are nice, and there are nice breezes when you reach high elevation. There can be parts with continuous incline, so make sure to pace yourself and to stay hydrated! Hike is not extremely difficult and is moderate. I came in the summer, so it was hot and dry. So sad I couldn't see the waterfall because it had already dried up. Parking is $10 inside the park, so if you want to save the money or if there is no more parking, you can park on the street. There's also an unofficial trailhead near the streets, which will lead you the official trailhead and it only adds about 0.4 miles to hike (I think, but it's not too long). read more

See all

A lovely hike which can lead you to views of Downtown LA and the beach. I would say it's a moderate intensity hike, the way I went up there was not much shade so it got hot quick. It's a fare incline, but the footing was good so not too much slipping and sliding. On a Saturday morning around 10 the trail was just getting busy with foot traffic. We took the shaded more green way back down. So many flowers and greenery.. it was hard to believe we were on the same hike. I don't think dogs are allowed on this hike although I did see a couple. You must pay for parking inside the park.. but on the street is free! read more

Temescal Canyon Hike, the crazy popular Temescal Canyon Park. A friend was visiting from out of state (yes, this is the only time we ever leave our apartment LOL to explore LA) so he trekked out of the city to the wilderness, to hike. I know, crazy! There's a parking lot as soon as you drive in off Sunset, but I'd recommend driving in a little further so you don't have to walk any more than you need to. Parking is $10, so pls carpool if you can. There's parking along Sunset if you refuse to pay, or just hike from your house to the park! Restrooms are available before the hike begins, luckily. They're clean and well-equipped with seat protectors, toilet paper, and hand soap thank goodness. Maps are available in printed copy. There's a store as well, which wasn't opened when we were there. To get to the "waterfall", you have to pass the hall first and it's the path beyond that building. I would say it's a level 3 hike. It wasn't flat, the latter half is uphill, so be prepared; but it's definitely not the most difficult hike either, you'll be fine. There wasn't much water but a stream. But it was still a good work out, it got us off the couch! Mission accomplished. read more

Temescal Gateway Park - Public restrooms - Parks Near Me - Pacific Palisades, California

See all

The Temescal canyon trail turned out to be around 4 miles and ups and downs. Went recently and there are signs to wear a mask. Parking is now $12 and you have to input your license plate number. Get there early in the morning to beat the heat. Went with my dad and brother and it was out exercise for the day. This trail might be tough for children as there is lots of incline but if you're looking for a good workout for the day check this place out! read more

See all

I've had some great recommendations from my peers about this hike and I must say it wasn't tooooo bad.. Haha! It's been a while and I mean a while since I've hiked. The main reason why my girlfriend and I went on this hike is because we heard there was a waterfall! Long story short we ended up on a wrong trail! Haha. Apparently there are two trails. An easy one and let's just say a semi easy one. I loved this hike because it's so diverse. Diverse as in all the different types of plants and environments. One part would be strictly all dirt and others would be all cactus. Great hike, you can see the views once you reach the top. Funny story we ended up in people's backyards.. Not sure if it was part of the hike! Still a good place to hike but no waterfall. 3-4 mile hike and lots of up hills so be careful! There are warning signs of rattle snakes and we actually came across one! Scary? A little bit, no harm done if you don't bother them. Except my girlfriend maybe freaked out the whole way down the trail. Lol Parking inside the park is $10, so park out side along Sunset Blvd! Beware there are actually cameras on the stop signs. So make that full stop and not one of those California rolls!! Have a great hike! read more

Temescal Gateway Park - Such great atmosphere! - Parks Near Me - Pacific Palisades, California

See all

This is one of my favorite hike in Santa Monica/Pacific Palisades. There is plenty of parking inside the park but parking fee is $12. There are pay-machines for parking. You can also park on sunset street for free and walk inside the park. There are plenty of clean restrooms inside the park before hike starts. There is a sign that there is traffic camera for stop sign but not sure if it's working. Hike is round trip. If you feel the challenge, take the start point closer to sunset ave direction and it has elevation of 1000 feet in first mile. If not up for challenge, take the start point at the end of park which is milder incline to top, but coming back will be steep. You can also extent your hike another mile to skull rock if you want. Landscape from top of skull rock is very good. There is a very small waterfall at the middle of the hike but there is no water in summer and Fall. There is some water in winter and spring. There is also park ranger station inside the park. Phone works all times in trail. Hike is very popular and it's always crowded. read more

Temescal Gateway Park - From top overlook - Parks Near Me - Pacific Palisades, California

See all

This is a great hike! It's almost 3 miles if you do the loop, but there are a couple of variations that you could do to shorten that time. We went around counterclockwise, so hit the waterfall first so that we could have ocean views on the way down. If you go clockwise, your back is to the water most of the time and you would have to crank your neck around in order to see the water. There were definitely times that we were huffing and puffing, so it's a good workout. Lots of rocks and branches and overgrowth on the path, so be alert. We also saw rebar sticking up in the middle of the path a few times... Not safe. Overall, the park doesn't have good signage. We had to ask people coming down if we were going the right way a number of times. Totally annoying that they charge $10 for parking. There are definitely street parking options available that are just a short distance from the lot, so save that money for a post hike treat. read more

Temescal Gateway Park - This is the beginning of the clockwise loop, oceanside first, waterfall later. - Parks Near Me - Pacific Palisades, California

Great hiking trails.. with a great view of the beach.. Best part it's super-close to the PCH.. and about 5-10 minutes from Santa Monica read more

Possibly the best walk in the Palisades. Several trails, which connect to other parklands. Dogs allowed on leash on some trails. Plenty of parking, although pricey. Well cared for, beautiful walks through the local hills. read more

Great hike with a beautiful view! Lots of street parking, but if you do park inside, they charge $10 and ask for you to input your license plate #. Only con, no dogs allowed on trails :( read more

Have loved coming here for almost 2 decades, but won't be coming back anytime soon as I received a parking ticket recently, for not having my parking pass displayed on the dashboard... except it WAS displayed on the dashboard! So they either missed it or are being shady. Now I have to contest it, a process that will take 2 to 3 months. So upsetting as this was a place I would go to relieve stress. read more

Great hike with a steady incline and a beautiful view of the coastline. We did the Skull Rock loop which is 4 miles with an elevation gain of 1,141 ft. It was an excellent workout. We got tot the top of Skull rock and climbed all around and had such a beautiful view of the ocean. We even signed the little book that was at the top. We went during the week to avoid crowds as this trail is very popular. There was suppose to be a waterfall, but it was a small trickle when we went. I even saw a couple kids doing this hike. Bring plenty of water because this hike gets very hot! I absolutely loved this hike and strongly recommend it. No dogs are allowed on this trail. There is an all day $12 parking fee and WATCH OUT FOR THE STOP SIGN CAMERA! Then count to 5 and proceed forward just to make sure they don't ticket you. If you don't, you will be sent a $100 ticket for running the stop sign. read more

Moderate hike with nice ocean and city views. Temescal Gateway Park is situated just off Sunset Blvd. in the Pacific Palisades. This location makes Temescal Canyon Loop a very popular hike as well. Parking is free along Sunset Blvd., but there's a charge to park inside the park. My hiking partner and I went there around 12:00 pm. We were fortunate that the weather wasn't too hot and it wasn't too crowded as well. Some areas are little bit rocky, but are doable. There's also a lot of spots where you can get some shade and rest a bit (which we did). We made it to the top in 2 hours. I was surprised to see the lovely view of city and the ocean! I'm glad that my partner had picked this place. And it was certainly a nice way to burn all those calories after a heavy meal haha. :) I think probably 2 bottles of water is enough, but may vary depending on the weather. Overall, it was a great hike. read more

See all

Long years-overdue review! Recent revisit = fun, easy hike in the Palisades ~ * YES - Parking lot $7 * YES - Lots of street parking available on Temescal Cyn, just south of Sunset * YES - Beautiful views at the end * YES - 4-mile roundtrip hike * YES - You get to see Skull Rock as part of this hike * YES - Arrive early on weekends as it tends to get packed read more

See all

Awesome hike! Just don't do it on a hot day as we did... Some parts didn't have much shade. The beginning of the trail is a bit confusing. You don't know where to go, we follow some people and ended up going back and getting on the right trails. Don't know where that one lead. The hike is beautiful and you get to see LA but within LA smog it's pretty hazy. You also get to see the coastline. Bring water as it gets extremely hot on top, and if you're doing the full loop the side down is not well shaded. The hike wasn't that packed when we went but we went early. Parking: sucks. It's better to park on the streets near the school. Beware of the stop sign on the parking lot. When it says photo enforced, it's really photo enforced. So if you do a California roll stop they will bill you a ticket!! My friend had that happen and now she does the full and complete stop at the stop sign getting out of their parking lot!! read more

Temescal Gateway Park - Running on the trails - Parks Near Me - Pacific Palisades, California

See all

Yelpy New Year resolution, get outdoors more. 1/1 *already making it happen! Went on the trail at 8am and beat the rush. Saw lots of people on the way down, wished every single one of them a good new year. There's one tidbit to add from previous years observations. They've put some bucks into the grounds. No, really. The bathrooms especially you can notice have been given the Westside treatment. Spiffy Now I'm not talking like all frou frou or anything, but it's kinda nice, if you get my drift. I'm a dude, so peeing in the woods is not a big deal to me. But you know, having a warm baño to lave las manos is a good thing. There's even a little series of historical signage out front of said bathrooms that tell the tale of Temescal Canyon and the origins of the park and what critters you should beware of, or plants you want to avoid rubbing your keister with. Sage advice ... leaves of 3, leave them be. Enjoy! read more

See all