The best walks and hikes in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve

There are two primary access points for the preserve. The Victory Trailhead is located at the western end of Victory Boulevard in West Hills. The other main entrance is the Las Virgenes Canyon Road Trailhead in Calabasas. Both offer access to the extensive trail network.

Yes, dogs are welcome in the preserve but must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be mindful of the local wildlife, including snakes, and be sure to bring enough water for both yourself and your pet, as the trails are very exposed.

Spring is a spectacular time to visit, as the rolling hills are green and covered in wildflowers like poppies and lupine. Autumn and winter offer cooler, more pleasant hiking conditions. Summer can be extremely hot and dry with little shade, so if you hike during this season, it's best to go early in the morning and carry plenty of water.

Yes, the preserve has several easier options. The Victory Trailhead loop from Canoga Park is a great choice for a gentler walk. It follows wide fire roads through the grasslands and is a good introduction to the area's landscape without significant elevation gain.

The preserve is a vital wildlife corridor, so sightings are common. You may encounter deer, coyotes, rabbits, and various birds of prey. It's also home to a variety of reptiles, including rattlesnakes, so always be aware of your surroundings. The area's ecosystems support sensitive species like the California red-legged frog.

Yes, the preserve's wide fire roads and multi-use trails are popular with both mountain bikers and equestrians. The rolling terrain offers a variety of options suitable for different skill levels. Always be courteous and yield to other trail users.

The preserve is characterized by its dry, chaparral landscape and does not feature any permanent waterfalls. The creeks and canyons, such as Bell Canyon Creek, may have flowing water after significant rainfall, but this is seasonal and temporary.

The land has a rich history. It was originally home to the Chumash, Tongva, and Tataviam peoples, and landmarks like the Cave of Munits and Castle Peak hold cultural importance. More recently, the area was known as Ahmanson Ranch before being saved from development and preserved as open space in 2003.

There are over 100 different routes to explore within Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve. The network consists of a mix of wide fire roads and singletrack trails, offering everything from short, easy loops to more strenuous, longer hikes.

Absolutely. For a longer and more challenging exploration of the preserve, consider the Victory Trailhead – Las Virgenes Canyon loop from Canoga Park. This route covers more ground and provides a comprehensive tour of the canyons and hillsides.

While many trails are well-marked, it's always wise to carry a map. You can find official maps and information on the park's website. For the most current park status, trail conditions, and downloadable maps, visit the MRCA park page.

The trails in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the stunning, wide-open vistas, the beautiful wildflower displays in the spring, and the sense of solitude despite being close to the city.