Experience an exhilarating hike with Toby and me at Will Rogers State Park in the Pacific Palisades to enjoy its scenic trails and breathtaking views.
The Will Rogers Historic State Park is a stunning ranch once owned by the popular Hollywood actor in the 1920s-1930s, Will Rogers. This remarkable estate has been graciously donated to California State Parks following his death, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in its timeless allure. With an array of hiking trails to choose from, including some that connect to the adjoining Topanga State Park, Toby and I eagerly embarked on our exploration on the scenic Inspiration Loop Trail, a delightful dirt path that welcomes our furry companions on a leash.
Entrance & Parking
To enter the Will Rogers Historic State Park, simply turn onto the Will Rogers State Park Road from Sunset Blvd. Up the road, a friendly park ranger will be there to greet you and handle your parking needs. You have options for parking – choose from 1-hour, 2-hour, or all-day, depending on your adventure plans. Personally, I’ve found that 2 hours is plenty of time for a satisfying hike. Don’t worry about parking, there’s space near the trailhead, and if that fills up, there’s plenty more past the big polo field.
Our Hike
After purchasing a 2-hour parking pass from the friendly park ranger, we were thrilled to find a convenient spot right by the trailhead. The initial section of the trail presented a noticeable incline, but fear not, as the well-defined dirt path was adorned with a vibrant array of wildflowers. Toby’s keen senses were fully engaged, taking in the new scents of the surroundings.
Opting for the leftward path at a trail junction, we embarked on the full loop of the Inspiration Loop trail. Gradually, the trail widened, offering ample space for fellow hikers accompanied by their canine companions. The panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean from our vantage point was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Along the way, we encountered a path leading to the renowned Inspiration Point, but unfortunately, it was closed during our hike. Nevertheless, I’ve heard remarkable things about it, and should the opportunity arise, I would recommend hiking up to the viewing point.
Undeterred by this minor setback, we continued along the entirety of the loop. The majority of the trail proved to be a moderately challenging yet manageable terrain, devoid of excessive inclines. It is worth noting that shade is limited along the route, so I would highly recommend a hat and sunscreen, particularly on sunnier days. As we approached the conclusion of the trail, the surroundings transformed into a picturesque woodland, with intermittent benches offering hikers the opportunity to pause and relish the stunning vistas.
Interactive Map
View our interactive map on Google Maps. Select the “Will Rogers State Park” layer for a detailed map of our hike!
