Inspiration Point Loop at Will Rogers State Historic Park

The Inspiration Point Loop is a hill hike in Will Rogers State Historic Park, 1501 Will Rogers State Park Rd, in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, California. The park is reached by car or rideshare, with a paid lot at the park where a day-use fee applies; there is no separate trail permit. The park reopened about ten months after the Palisades Fire, though the historic Ranch House was destroyed, so visitors should check California State Parks for current access and facility status. The loop is about 2 miles (3.2 km) with roughly 400 feet (120 m) of elevation gain and takes 1 to 1.5 hours. Difficulty is easy: the surface is wide dirt trail and fire road with a steady climb and no technical sections. Shade is limited, and the route is exposed in sun. The trail climbs from the park's polo field area to Inspiration Point, a ridge viewpoint with views of Santa Monica Bay, the Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica and, on clear days, Catalina Island. The land was once the ranch of humorist and entertainer Will Rogers, and the park preserves his story and the polo field where matches are held. Hikers who want a longer route can link to the Rivas Canyon Trail and Temescal Gateway Park or follow the Backbone Trail. A shorter walk can end at the overlook with a return the same way. Water and restrooms are available near the parking area, but not on the trail. There are no shelters. Dogs are not allowed on trails in the state park, so visitors should check rules.