Malibu Creek State Park – M*A*S*H Trail
I can’t believe I have lived in Los Angeles for almost 4 years and I just recently took my first hike in Malibu Creek State Park! Situated in the Santa Monica Mountains with the park entrance in Calabasas off Las Virgenes Rd., Malibu Creek State Park is comprised of over 8,000 acres of land. Before the park was open to the public in 1976 some well known Hollywood filming took place here including Planet of the Apes and M*A*S*H. Unique rock formations, including that of volcanic rock and beautiful canyons can be seen in this state park.
The trail to see the area where scenes from M*A*S*H were filmed starts a bit into the path with the trailhead marking the length as 2.1 miles (one way.) I started my Apple Watch from just passed the parking lot and clocked 4.63 miles in and back. The trail is very easy, mostly flat and offers little shade. After speaking with some hikers on the trail when I encountered a dead end, I was informed that recent rain waters washed away the landing to get across the stream. There was a downed tree and a wooden plank that provided a relatively quick and easy way to gain access to the remainder of the trail. If you are willing to make this small effort then you will be reward with seeing some remaining cars from the M*A*S*H set and an information board with some history on the filming location.
On the way back, with about 1 mile or so remaining, we decided to take the alternative route through the big dirt parking lot near the visitors center. This trail just takes you along the opposite side of the creek and requires another water crossing to get back to the main side of the path. Simply make your way over the rocks or, if you are afraid of slipping, take your shoes off and walk through the very shallow water.
Address: 1925 Las Virgenes Rd Calabasas, CA 91302
Parking: $12 for a day pass
Restrooms: located in the Main Parking Lot
M*A*S*H Trail: 4.2 miles plus another .43 from the Main Parking Lot.
Trail conditions: mostly flat, little shade
