LET THE JOURNEY BE THE DESTINATION

Tuna Canyon Park

The mission of Grateful Bench is to raise awareness and heighten the experience of the Santa Monica mountains and trails for all visitors. The intentions of this initiative are built around these core values:

Gratitude and Connection
The raw beauty of these trails and parks offers moments of reflection and connection.

Discovery and Sharing
Whether it’s experiencing a new trail, or witnessing a majestic vista for the first time, the rich history, flora, and fauna of this region provide a treasure trove for visitors to find, and share with others.

Health and Accomplishment
Encourage visitors to invest in their well-being, relish in the feelings of accomplishment, and simply have a good time in the process.

WELCOME TO THE SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS

Diverse group of people hiking a trail

The reach of the Santa Monica Mountains extends from Griffith Park in downtown Los Angeles and west to the Pacific Ocean in Ventura County. Within this coastal range lies the smaller footprint of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, one of the largest urban national parks in the world featuring over 500 miles of trails in the backyard of urban Los Angeles.

Preservation of this range and its history, fauna, and flora requires the collaborative efforts of Federal, State, and local agencies to ensure that these lands continue to thrive for generations to come. Visitors to any of the parks and trails can also do their part by picking up a few helpful tips for their time here.

Download The Leave No Trace Etiquette Guide ↓

PARTNERS