3.17.2008

Parker Mesa Overlook: Best View In Town

Incredibly, the public can still enjoy unadulterated hilltop views of LA, from downtown to Malibu on a clear day. Don’t worry, this so-called ‘best view in town’ doesn’t involve scoring an invite to some exclusive mansion or becoming hired help. All that’s required is a bit of driving and hiking.



Parker Mesa Overlook can be reached two separate ways. One starts from Trippet Ranch in Topanga Canyon – the same starting point as the Eagle Rock hike. The other way – and my personal favorite - begins in Pacific Palisades from Paseo Miramar Road.



From Paseo Miramar, you will enjoy spectacular 180 degree views of LA the whole 2.5 miles up to the overlook. And when I say up, I mean up – a 1200 foot elevation gain to be exact. So on top of the views, this is a serious calorie burner.

The wide trail meanders up the ridge between the Los Liones and Santa Ynez canyons. Since it isn't a wooded trail with shade, remember to bring a hat. My favorite time to come is a few days after a spring rain when you're sure to spot wildflowers.



Thankfully, there are benches on the knoll at the top where you can rest and take in the view. If it’s really clear, you can spot Catalina Island in the distance. Be forewarned that the view is so captivating hikers have been known to completely forget about time. My husband and I got caught in the Parker Mesa Overlook’s spell and ended up hiking down in the dark – not something I’d generally recommend.

Click here for a great photo of Parker Mesa snapped by a fellow blogger.

The only downside to the Paseo Miramar starting point is that it sometimes can be hard to find parking in the neighborhood.

Driving Directions:
- From Santa Monica, drive north on PCH to Sunset Blvd.
- Turn right and drive 0.3 miles to Paseo Miramar
- Turn left onto Paseo Miramar and drive until the end of the road

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