The Santa Monica Mountains in California form a beautiful
and multi-faceted landscape that stretch from the hills of Los Angeles
to the Pacific Ocean. The Santa Monica Mountains are located in a Mediterranean
ecosystem that contains a variety of native flora and fauna. Theses
California mountains also have an fascinating and diverse cultural history
beginning with the Chumash and Gabrielino/Tongva Indian peoples.
Visitors to the Santa Monica Mountains can enjoy hiking, mountain bicycling,
horseback riding, bird watching, whale watching, swimming, surfing,
nature walks, festivals and picnicking year-round. Guests should note
that certain activities such as weddings, large picnics, filming, festivals,
and community gatherings do require permits.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is a cooperative effort
that joins many state, federal and private agencies. Guests are encouraged
to visit the National Park Visitor Center at 401 West Hillcrest Drive
in Thousand Oaks, California, where they can see the award winning film
Mountains, Movies & Magic a film produced in cooperation with the
Discovery Channel and the National Park Foundation.
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