Paramount Ranch Hike - Malibu Hiking Trail
Paramount Ranch Hike Overview: Giddy-up! In 1927, Paramount Pictures purchased approximately 2,700 acres of land in the Malibu Hills to create a “movie ranch.” The land served as a focal point for several films, including The Adventures of Marco Polo (1938) and Ebb Tide (1937). In the early 1950, Paramount sold the ranch to William Hertz who converted the ranch into a fulltime western town, expanding upon Paramount’s early endeavors. The movie production continued and hits, such as The Cisco Kid, were filmed.
Later in the 50s, Hertz sold the property and part of it was converted to a full horserace track. However, the arduous and dangerous, hilly environment caused three fatal accidents and the racetrack was closed down. From 1957 through the 1980s, the ranch changed several hands, but western movie production continued. In order to help preserve the property and to provide stability to the infrastructure, the National Park Service purchased the property in 1980 and restored the ranch. Movie production continued as the National Park Service owned the property. In fact, Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman, a popular 1990s TV show staring Jane Seymour and Joe Lando, was filmed on location.
Today, the park serves as a local icon to the glorious past of Western culture and a portal for hikers and active enthusiasts to enjoy a fun backdrop to a day outdoors!
Paramount Ranch HIke Estimated Time: 1-3 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend exploring the trails and iconic buildings. There are several table areas to enjoy an outdoor picnic.
Paramount Ranch Hike Distance: 1 – 4 miles.
Trail Pictures
Map & Directions
Paramount Ranch Photo Gallery
Half Moon Bay Hiking Trail Image Gallery (click on image to rotate through image/s)
Behind the Scenes
When to Go
Spring / Fall: Since summer temperatures in Malibu canyon can exceed 100+ degrees, it’s recommended to enjoy the Paramount Ranch National Park in the cooler months of spring and fall. And depending on the weather, winter may also be a nice time to visit.
Dog Friendly
Yes, dogs are permitted. However, they must be kept on leashes.
Free parking & park access
Old Western Town
Trail Map & Directions
Paramount Ranch Hike Directions:
Address for GPS: 2903 Cornell Rd, Agoura Hills, CA 91301
From Los Angeles:
- US-101 North
- Follow US-101 N to Kanan Rd in Agoura Hills. Take exit 36 from US-101 N
- Take Cornell Way to Paramount Ranch Rd
Current Traffic Conditions & Map:
Total Distance (miles)
Total Estimated Time (hours)
Intensity Levels
Barry-the-Bear: Howdy, Partner! Paramount Ranch was a beautiful backdrop to our outdoor adventure in Malibu. I’ve always enjoyed old western movies, so it was special to walk around the set of this old Hollywood movie set. Luckily, they let me out of the town’s jail and didn’t keep me overnight in the cage. This is a fun hike for children and hikers of all beary ages!
- Intensity Level 35%
Larry-the-Lion: I didn’t follow Go Hike It’s advice and went during the summer. Boy oh Lion it was HOT! The temperatures exceeded 100+ degrees during the heat wave. Luckily, I brought plenty of water and a picnic to enjoy a picnic under the shade.
- Intensity Level 20%
Chris-the-Cheetah: Incredible! I’ve paid to visit several local theme parks that feature “western towns,” but this one takes the cake! I was able to go on a long-single track run and then spend plenty of time exploring this charming western town, while doing push-ups sets between the buildings. It’s time to visit this iconic landmark and get your sweat on!
- Intensity Level 10%
Why We Liked It
Paramount Ranch features over a dozen western buildings that are unique and charming. From an old jail to a salon and town hall, each building has a unique feature that makes it fun to explore and a perfect backdrop for pictures. Although crowded during our visit, we were still able to find some solace in the town and enjoy the beauty of town. The trail is fairly easy and take plenty of water, if you plan on visiting during the warmer months.
Happy Trails!
Trail Pictures
Map & Directions
Enjoy it?
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