The park contains the site of the former 'Rocky Peak' fire lookout station, which was decommissioned years ago.
The park's sandstone formations are part of the Chatsworth Formation, dating back to the Late Cretaceous period.
It acts as a crucial wildlife corridor connecting the Santa Susana Mountains to the Simi Hills.
The area was frequently used as a filming location for classic Hollywood Westerns during the mid-20th century.
Portions of the park feature rock art and historical evidence of the native Chumash and Tataviam people.
The Santa Susana Pass nearby was once a major transit route for stagecoaches and early settlers traveling between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.
Rocky Peak Park is a 4,800-acre wilderness area straddling the border of Ventura and Los Angeles counties in the Santa Susana Mountains. The park features a rugged network of trails that climb through dramatic sandstone rock formations and chaparral ecosystems. It serves as a vital corridor for the Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park and the wider Rim of the Valley Trail system. The high-elevation vantage points offer panoramic views of the Simi Valley to the north and the San Fernando Valley to the south. The terrain is primarily rocky and exposed with limited canopy cover. Several multi-use trails accommodate hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. The area is known for its complex geological features resulting from uplift along the Santa Susana Fault. It remains a popular location for those seeking strenuous physical activity and geological study.
The summit of the Rocky Peak trail, providing a 360-degree view of both the Simi and San Fernando valleys.
Bring at least two liters of water, as there are no potable water sources or facilities at the trailhead.
Wear footwear with aggressive tread, as the sandstone terrain is slippery and steep in many sections.
Check for mountain lion and rattlesnake activity before heading out, as both are native to the Santa Susana Mountains.
Attempting the climb during midday in the summer months when temperatures often exceed 95°F (35°C) with no shade.
Practice 'Leave No Trace' principles; stay on marked trails to protect sensitive erosion-prone sandstone and wildlife habitat.
