Mugu Peak Trail: One of the Best Views on a Hike in MalibuContributorApril 1, 2021Travel blog There was a little bench up there to relax at before starting the hike back down. I made a loop of this upper section, so I headed down the other way. Share Tweet Mugu Peak is a fantastic trail in Malibu, one that will push you but that will reward you at the end as well. I was happy to finally check it off my list, and let me know what you think in the comments. Heading left, you will be greeted with a section with no switchbacks that goes straight up the mountainside. I don’t see this type of thing on trails often, as there are usually switchbacks that make the elevation more gradual. Details 2.7 miles round trip 1200 feet of elevation Bring a hiking pole because it is very steep, especially on the way down Sign at the trailhead said it was not dog friendly Location: 34.09183,-119.06549 Getting There Heading left, you will be greeted with a section with no switchbacks that goes straight up the mountainside. I don’t see this type of thing on trails often, as there are usually switchbacks that make the elevation more gradual. From here, you will make it back to the end of the loop, where you can start heading back down to the trailhead. If you want a real test though, head left. This is the way I went first, but it is tough. The trail begins from the parking area and immediately heads up. It will be going up all the way to the summit, so be prepared for that. Getting to the summit is less than a mile and 1,200 feet of elevation, which is why the hike is so tough. That is a lot of elevation gain in such a short period of time. Last Modified: March 30, 2021 As you make it back near the split, watch for a little spur that takes you out to another fantastic viewpoint. It is about a tenth of a mile, but it is worth it for the perspective shift it gives you. The summit is basically a 360-degree view, and it is pretty spectacular.