Hiking Trail Guide: Nicholas Flat Trail

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Nicholas Flat Trail

Distance
8 miles

Elevation
1800 feet gain

Difficulty
5/10

City
Malibu ,CA (90264) 30.55 miles from you Weather Map

Trailhead
From the west end of the Santa Monica Freeway in Santa Monica, head up-coast on Pacific Coast Highway about 25 miles to Leo Carrillo State Beach.. The signed Nicholas Flat Trailhead is located a short distance past the park entry kiosk, opposite the day use parking area.

Description

Although there is not much shade on this hike, the ocean views and spring wildflowers are spectacular. A perfect place for a picnic is Nicholas Pond, which I found to be very beautiful. For the more adventurous, take the rough trail around the pond and peak over the rocks on the far side of the pond for a view of some stunning cliffs and the far off ocean. The first 3 miles of the trail is a steady upward march of about 1600 foot, so make sure you are in shape for this hike.

The topo map shows a slightly longer route than shown in the hiking books, taking a route that traverses the west portion of the flat.

Map / Directions: