Rivas Canyon Trail to Temescal Overlooks

The Rivas Canyon Trail to the Temescal Overlooks climbs from Temescal Gateway Park in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, California, through the Santa Monica Mountains to two ocean overlooks. The park is at 15601 Sunset Blvd, reached by car, rideshare or Metro 2 and 302 buses on Sunset Blvd; there is a paid lot at the park. The trail reopened on July 17, 2026 after recovery from the Palisades Fire, while the Temescal Canyon waterfall trail remains closed indefinitely, so hikers should check current Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and park alerts before going. The route is about 4 miles (6.4 km) round trip with roughly 800 feet (245 m) of elevation gain, taking 2 to 2.5 hours. Difficulty is moderate: the surface is dirt trail with a sustained climb through a canyon and onto ridge sections, and parts are rocky or eroded. Shade was reduced by fire damage, so exposure to sun should be expected, although vegetation is regrowing. The trail follows Rivas Canyon, then climbs to the overlooks, which look over Santa Monica Bay, the Palisades coastline and the Pacific Ocean. The route also links to Will Rogers State Historic Park, allowing longer one-way or loop hikes for those who arrange a return. Turn around at the first overlook for a shorter outing. Water is not available on the trail, so hikers carry their own, and there are no shelters. Visitors should stay on open trails, obey closure signs and be prepared for changes in conditions after the fire.