Cold Creek, Calabasas, California, 91302

## Overview Cold Creek, nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains near Calabasas and Topanga, is widely regarded as one of the purest natural water sources in the entire Santa Monica Mountains range. Located along Saddle Peak Road in the rugged hills above Malibu, this spring sits within the Cold Creek Canyon Preserve — a biologically rich area known for its diverse native plant communities, old-growth oaks, and year-round flowing water, which is rare for the semi-arid Santa Monica Mountains. The Cold Creek watershed has long been valued by hikers, naturalists, and water enthusiasts for its remarkably clean, cold water. The canyon's shaded riparian environment helps keep the water cool even during Southern California's warm months. Historically, the creek and its springs have sustained the surrounding ecosystem, supporting sensitive species and lush vegetation that stands in stark contrast to the surrounding chaparral. Please note: while Cold Creek has been celebrated for its water purity, the site is currently fenced off due to an invasive snail species management effort. Visitors should check with the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA) or local land managers for the latest access status before planning a trip. ## Directions 1. From the 101 Freeway in Calabasas, take Las Virgenes Road south toward the Santa Monica Mountains. 2. Continue on Las Virgenes Road as it winds into the mountains, then turn left (east) onto Mulholland Highway. 3. Follow Mulholland Highway and turn right (south) onto Stunt Road. 4. Continue on Stunt Road until it meets Saddle Peak Road. Turn left onto Saddle Peak Road. 5. Follow Saddle Peak Road to the area near **23276 Saddle Peak Road, Topanga, CA 90290**. 6. Look for the Cold Creek access point along the road. Parking may be limited to roadside pullouts — be mindful of "No Parking" signs. 7. GPS coordinates: **34.087416, -118.644757** *Note: The roads in this area are narrow and winding. Drive carefully, especially on weekends when cyclist and hiker traffic increases.* ## What to Expect Cold Creek Canyon is one of the ecological gems of the Santa Monica Mountains. The spring area is surrounded by towering coast live oaks, big-leaf maples, and a lush understory of ferns and native wildflowers — a surprisingly verdant landscape for Los Angeles County. The creek itself typically flows year-round, fed by natural springs in the upper canyon. The water from Cold Creek has been reported to be exceptionally clean and is considered one of the highest-quality natural water sources in the Santa Monica Mountains. However, as with any natural water source, conditions can change, and the water has not been independently certified as safe for consumption. **Current Access Note:** The property is public land but is **currently fenced off** due to an invasive snail management effort. The specific species involved has prompted land managers to restrict access to protect both the ecosystem and prevent further spread. Before visiting, it is strongly recommended to contact the MRCA or check local trail status updates to confirm whether access has been restored. When accessible, the area offers a peaceful, shaded retreat with the sound of flowing water — a rare find so close to urban Los Angeles. The surrounding Cold Creek Canyon Preserve also features trails through some of the most biodiverse terrain in the Santa Monica Mountains, making it worth combining a spring visit with a longer hike through the canyon.