Sullivan Canyon Reopens
Sullivan Canyon, in the Santa Monica Mountains, was closed for several years for pipeline maintenance (the land is owned by SoCal Gas) and then of course because of the Palisades Fire.
However, the canyon recently reopened to the public for hiking and biking, so I went up today to see what remains. Though the fire did burn both sides of the canyon, the large oaks and sycamores at the bottom are all intact.
The area is thus an eerie juxtaposition of shaded glens, lush grasses, and vibrant wildflowers, all immediately surrounded by the massive burn scar of the January Palisades Fire.
If you're unfamiliar with Sullivan Canyon, it is a gentle and meandering drainage above the city-side of the Santa Monicas, accessed from Mandeville Canyon (near the end of Westridge Road).
Unlike most Santa Monica Mountains hiking and biking trails, Sullivan is well-shaded, making it a viable choice even on warm summer days.
It's no small wilderness miracle, frankly, to be this close to urban Los Angeles—and Sullivan is also a fine launch point for numerous area hikes. I particularly recommend looping to Sullivan Ridge or the end of Westridge.
As I climbed higher up the canyon, the shady oaks receeded, and the massive extent of the Palisades Fire became evident. Atop the ridge, I stopped to take some photos and cry a bit. This was my first time back to this part of the Santa Monicas (which I used to ride regularly) since the fire.
Much has been taken from us. Sullivan, at least, has been given back.
— June 3, 2025
My family and I are deeply grateful to all of you for your kind words, encouragement, and offers of support. Every message and every gesture—big or small—has meant a lot to us. We're doing the best we can ❤️
Dan Conger June 3, 2025 at 6:23 pm
Such massive devastation. Glad you are able to get out there. Also nice to see some green returning.