01
Best big-view challenge
Sandstone Peak & Mishe Mokwa Loop
High Santa Monica Mountains North Of Malibu • Classic Mountain Summit Route With Rocky Ridges • Iconic Local Climb
A rewarding loop to the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains, with sweeping ocean and valley views on clear days.
For strong hikers willing to drive a bit, this loop is the go-to adventure from Lake Sherwood. The route mixes shaded canyon sections with airy ridgelines and a short spur to Sandstone Peak's summit plaque. Go early on weekends, pack extra water, and expect plenty of photo stops along the way.
02
Best gateway into Point Mugu backcountry
Rancho Sierra Vista / Satwiwa & Sycamore Canyon
Newbury Park Side Of Conejo Valley • Rolling Grasslands And Canyon Paths With Mountain Backdrops • Versatile All-Ages Pick
A flexible network of trails where you can choose anything from a quick meadow stroll to a longer trek down Sycamore Canyon toward the coast.
This National Park Service area feels surprisingly wild given how close it is to Lake Sherwood. Wide, mostly gentle trails make it easy to customize your distance, whether you are hiking with kids or stretching your legs after work. In spring, look for green hillsides, wildflowers, and clear views out toward Boney Mountain.
03
Best after-work ridge hike
Los Robles Trail to Angel Vista
Ridgeline Above Westlake Village And Thousand Oaks • Exposed Singletrack Ridge With Broad Valley Views • Local Sunset Favorite
A steady climb to a panoramic overlook where you can watch the light drop over Conejo Valley and the distant Channel Islands on clear evenings.
From the Westlake area, the Los Robles Trail feels like a natural extension of the neighborhood into open space. The grade is moderate but consistent, making it a satisfying workout without being technical. Angel Vista has benches, breezes, and space to linger, so plan a little extra time at the top if you go near golden hour.
04
Best mellow loop close to the lake
Triunfo Creek Park Trails
Oak-Lined Canyon South Of Westlake Boulevard • Quiet Creekside Paths And Gentle Canyon Climbs • Relaxed Nearby Escape
An easygoing network of dirt paths that winds through oaks and along a seasonal creek just minutes from Lake Sherwood.
When you want a shorter outing without committing to a full mountain hike, Triunfo Creek is a convenient choice. The trails are mostly smooth and gradual, making them good for casual walkers, leashed dogs, and anyone easing into local hiking. After winter rains, the canyon feels especially lush and the creek adds a bit of sound and shade.
05
Best waterfall loop
Wildwood Regional Park & Paradise Falls Loop
North Thousand Oaks • Canyon-And-Mesa Parkland With A Year-Round Waterfall • Family-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser
A lively loop that drops into a canyon, visits Paradise Falls, and climbs back out to open mesas with big sky views.
Wildwood is a Conejo Valley classic, and the Paradise Falls loop is a fun introduction if you're coming from Lake Sherwood. Expect a mix of dirt roads and singletrack, a short but steep climb or two, and plenty of other locals on weekends. Go early in summer for cooler temperatures, or time a weekday visit if you prefer a quieter trail to the falls.