National Recreation Area · CA

Dogs in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Can I bring my dog, and on which trails?
Dog-friendlyLeash: 6 feet maximum, at all times.

The Santa Monica Mountains recreation area is largely dog friendly, with leashed pets allowed on trails, roads, and developed areas across most National Park Service sites.

Leashed pets are allowed on trails, roads, and developed areas at NPS sites including Cheeseboro/Palo Comado Canyons, Circle X Ranch, Paramount Ranch, Peter Strauss Ranch, Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa, Rocky Oaks, Solstice Canyon, and Zuma/Trancas Canyons.
Photo: NPS · NPS

Where dogs are allowed

Leashed pets are allowed on trails, roads, and developed areas at NPS sites including Cheeseboro/Palo Comado Canyons, Circle X Ranch, Paramount Ranch, Peter Strauss Ranch, Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa, Rocky Oaks, Solstice Canyon, and Zuma/Trancas Canyons.

Where dogs are banned

Buildings and where posted. Pets are not allowed on backcountry trails of Topanga, Malibu Creek, Leo Carrillo, and Point Mugu State Parks.

Leash rule

6 feet maximum, at all times.

Service animals

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.

Official source
National Park Service
View the official NPS page →
Last verified 2026-07-09
Designation
National Recreation Area

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area?

The Santa Monica Mountains recreation area is largely dog friendly, with leashed pets allowed on trails, roads, and developed areas across most National Park Service sites. Leashed pets are allowed on trails, roads, and developed areas at NPS sites including Cheeseboro/Palo Comado Canyons, Circle X Ranch, Paramount Ranch, Peter Strauss Ranch, Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa, Rocky Oaks, Solstice Canyon, and Zuma/Trancas Canyons.

What is the leash rule at Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area?

6 feet maximum, at all times.

Are service animals allowed at Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area?

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.