Leo Carrillo to Nicholas Flat

The Nicholas Flats Trail in Leo Carrillo State park is unique in the way it connects the mountains with the sea. Chaparral, grassland, coastal scrub and oak woodland all converge near the flat with spectacular ocean views along the way. An old cattle pond backed by picturesque sandstone outcroppings provides a home for red-wing blackbirds and a welcoming resting place for us.

Trails used: Willow Creek Trail, Nicholas Flat trail, Meadows Trail, Camp 13 Trail, Nicholas Ridge Trail, Malibu Springs Trail, Nicholas Ranch Road

Hike is about 9 miles with 1800' total ascent and rated MEDIUM+. See Hike Rating Guide

Directions

Leo Carrillo State Park is on PCH a little east of Mulholland Hwy

From 101 in Valley: Head west and exit Kanan Rd. Head toward beaches and turn right on on PCH. Drive 8 miles to Leo Carrillo State Park and turn right into park entrance

From Hwy 10/West Side: Head up-coast on Pacific Coast Highway about 25 miles to Leo Carrillo State Beach. Turn right into park entrance

From Ventura-Oxnard-Camarillo: Head south on Hwy 1. Park is on left about 10.5 miles past Las Posas

Parking is 12 bucks(?), cash or credit. There is some free street parking across the street. If you park across the street use the Beach Access Rd to enter park. We’ll in parking lot meet near entrance/exit