Paramount Ranch - Image 1
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Paramount Ranch

4.4
·952 reviews·Agoura Hills, United States

A historic Hollywood movie ranch offering scenic hiking trails and a rebuilding Western Town, perfect for outdoor adventures and film history buffs.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Paramount Ranch - Image 1

Paramount Ranch

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Hollywood movie ranch offering scenic hiking trails and a rebuilding Western Town, perfect for outdoor adventures and film history buffs.

4.4
(952 reviews)

"It's like a peek into the past, a ghost town with beautiful trails and a promising future."

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TIP

🐾 Dog-Friendly Adventures

Leashed dogs are welcome on trails! Perfect for a hike with your furry best friend. :dog:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of hiking and exploring! Sturdy footwear is a must for the trails. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Western Town Reconstruction

Western Town Reconstruction

Main Set Area

Witness the rebirth of a historic movie set, blending old Hollywood charm with modern upgrades. A must-see as it's rebuilt!

Instagram
Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails

Various trailheads

Explore scenic paths through rolling hills and forests, offering stunning mountain views and a peaceful escape.

TikTokInstagram+1
Historic Church

Historic Church

Western Town

The sole surviving structure from the original Western Town, this picturesque church stands as a symbol of resilience.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Reconstruction Underway

Paramount Ranch is undergoing significant reconstruction after the 2018 Woolsey Fire. While the iconic Western Town is being rebuilt, visitors can still explore the grounds and enjoy hiking trails. Check for updates on the reconstruction progress before your visit. Instagram

Dog-Friendly Trails

Bring your furry friends along! Paramount Ranch is a great spot for hiking with dogs, offering a scenic escape in the Santa Monica Mountains. Enjoy the trails and open spaces with your canine companions. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Spring
Why
Wildflowers in bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall
Why
Pleasant weather for hiking
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Couldn’t go to Malibu Creek state park because they don’t allow dogs so we went to Paramount Ranch on a whim. Such a fun time out in nature 💚 #Hiking #malibu #pch
@thealysab
4.5K likes • 34.4K views

🐾 Dog-Friendly Adventures

Leashed dogs are welcome on trails! Perfect for a hike with your furry best friend. TikTokInstagram :dog:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of hiking and exploring! Sturdy footwear is a must for the trails. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Paramount Ranch is making a comeback! 🎥🏗️ Once a legendary Hollywood filming location, this historic site was nearly lost in the 2018 Woolsey Fire. Now, a $22 million reconstruction is bringing back its iconic Western Town, blending history with modern upgrades for future productions and visitors. By fall 2024, the Old West will ride again! 🤠🔥 #ParamountRanch #HollywoodHistory #RebuildingTheWest
socaloutdoorexplorer
919 likes • 41.3K views
Paramount Ranch is a unique western town that was created for the movies and offers opportunities to learn about film history. Unfortunately, it has been destroyed by fire in 2018 and only two structures remain, the small church and a train depot. The area is currently under reconstruction but the grounds are still open to public. It’s very peaceful and serene with lots of wildlife with few hiki...
angelilax
184 likes • 6.1K views

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Stay hydrated and fueled, especially on longer hikes. Limited facilities on site. :water_wave:

📸 Capture the Scenery

Beautiful rolling hills and remnants of the movie set make for great photos. Instagram :camerawithflash:

Paramount Ranch is a western film set that has been used for filming movies like American Sniper, Van Helsing, The Lake House, and more! 🎞️ 🎬 📹: @cahikingadventures #conejovalley#visitconejovalley#visitcalifornia#tacos#mountains#hiking#thingstodo#paramountranch
visitconejovalley
41 likes • 2.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Dog-Friendly Adventures

Leashed dogs are welcome on trails! Perfect for a hike with your furry best friend. TikTokInstagram :dog:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of hiking and exploring! Sturdy footwear is a must for the trails. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

Stay hydrated and fueled, especially on longer hikes. Limited facilities on site. :water_wave:

📸 Capture the Scenery

Beautiful rolling hills and remnants of the movie set make for great photos. Instagram :camerawithflash:

⏳ Check Reconstruction Status

The Western Town is being rebuilt. Visit their official site for the latest updates. Instagram :construction_worker:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(952 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Paramount Ranch is a beloved spot for its scenic hiking trails and its historical significance as a movie set. Visitors appreciate the dog-friendly atmosphere and the peaceful natural surroundings. While the ongoing reconstruction of the Western Town is a key feature, some note the slow pace of rebuilding. InstagramReddit

"Paramount Ranch is this cool little town built as a movie set. I love their Halloween event, and there are plenty of trails to hike nearby. There is lots of parking and the place can feel like an old western ghost town. It is like a peek into the past. Shows like Westworld filmed here, and you can see the iconic church in the background. It was destroyed by a fire in 2028 but it is being rebuilt..."

Akiko Ashley

"A great place for hiking. This location is well known for being the set of classic Wild West-style movies. Unfortunately, in 2018, most of the town was destroyed by a major wildfire. Today, only a small church remains. Reconstruction is currently underway and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. Nearby, you'll find the Coyote Trail, which offers stunning views of the mountains."

Ксения К

"Almost there. Waiting for the final product. Good job preserving what little left. Seems slow, but getting there? It'll be a jewel among the plethora of CGI backdrops. The stream and bridges are nice accents."

WD Yang

What People Like

Scenic hiking trails
Dog-friendly environment
Historic movie set remnants

What People Dislike

Slow reconstruction progress

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Paramount Ranch is located at 2903 Cornell Rd, Agoura Hills, CA 91301. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Many visitors find it a convenient drive from Los Angeles and surrounding areas. Instagram

Public transportation options are limited for reaching Paramount Ranch directly. It's best accessed by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you don't have your own vehicle. TikTok

There is ample parking available at Paramount Ranch, making it easy to access the trails and the main site. Reddit

Yes, Paramount Ranch is a popular day trip from Los Angeles, typically a scenic drive through the Santa Monica Mountains. Instagram

Restrooms are available at Paramount Ranch, which is convenient for visitors planning to spend time hiking or exploring. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Paramount Ranch and its grounds is generally free. There are no admission tickets required for general access to the hiking trails and the reconstruction site. Instagram

Paramount Ranch is typically open from dawn to dusk. However, it's always a good idea to check the official National Park Service website for any specific closures or updated hours, especially due to ongoing reconstruction. Reddit

Yes, the grounds of Paramount Ranch remain open to the public for hiking and exploration even while the Western Town is under reconstruction. InstagramReddit

There are no entrance fees for Paramount Ranch. Access to the hiking trails and the general area is free for all visitors. Reddit

Paramount Ranch has hosted various events in the past, including races and Halloween festivities. Keep an eye on local event listings and the park's announcements for future opportunities. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can hike the scenic trails, explore the remnants of the Western Town, and learn about its history as a filming location. The reconstruction offers a glimpse into its future. TikTokInstagram+1

Absolutely! Paramount Ranch offers numerous hiking trails through beautiful landscapes, perfect for all skill levels. The Coyote Trail is a popular choice. InstagramReddit

Yes, horseback riding is a popular activity at Paramount Ranch. Several outfitters offer guided rides through the scenic terrain. InstagramReddit

Paramount Ranch has been a backdrop for countless films and TV shows, including 'Westworld,' 'Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman,' 'American Sniper,' and 'Van Helsing.' Instagram+2

Originally built in 1927, Paramount Ranch served as a working ranch and a popular filming location for Westerns and other genres. It was significantly damaged by the 2018 Woolsey Fire but is being rebuilt. Instagram+2

📸 📸 Photography

The historic church, the partially rebuilt Western Town structures, and the scenic hiking trails with rolling hills offer fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Yes, you can take photos of the movie set remnants and the ongoing reconstruction. The unique Western architecture provides a great backdrop. Instagram+1

Definitely. The surrounding Santa Monica Mountains provide beautiful vistas, especially during sunrise and sunset, making it ideal for landscape photography. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits, so it's best to check with park authorities if you have specific plans. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon 'golden hours' offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Paramount Ranch is a fantastic destination for families looking for an outdoor adventure with a touch of Hollywood magic. The open spaces and relatively easy hiking trails make it suitable for children. Dogs are also welcome on leash, so the whole family, including furry members, can enjoy the day. TikTokInstagram

While the Western Town is under reconstruction, the grounds still offer a sense of history and imagination. Kids can pretend they're in a Western movie as they explore the remaining structures and the surrounding natural beauty. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider a picnic in one of the shaded areas. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Paramount Ranch is a paradise for dog owners! It's a well-known spot for hiking with dogs, offering miles of trails where your canine companions can roam (on leash, of course). The open fields and natural environment provide ample space for them to explore and enjoy. TikTokInstagram

Many visitors share their joyful experiences of hiking with their dogs here, highlighting the freedom and fun their pets have. It's a great way to get some exercise together and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Santa Monica Mountains. Just remember to bring water for both you and your dog, and be mindful of trail etiquette. :dog:

🎬 Film Buffs & History Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by the golden age of Hollywood and the magic of filmmaking, Paramount Ranch is a pilgrimage site. Although much of the iconic Western Town was lost to fire, its spirit endures through the ongoing reconstruction. You can still see the historic church and imagine the countless scenes filmed here. Instagram+1

Learn about its history as a working movie ranch and a backdrop for legendary films and TV shows like 'Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman' and 'Westworld.' The reconstruction project itself is a story of resilience and dedication to preserving cinematic heritage. Instagram+1 Visiting now offers a unique chance to witness history being rebuilt. :movie_camera:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Rebirth of Paramount Ranch

Paramount Ranch, established in 1927, was a legendary Hollywood backlot that served as the backdrop for countless Westerns and other films. Its iconic Western Town was a beloved landmark, evoking the spirit of the Old West. Sadly, the devastating 2018 Woolsey Fire destroyed most of the town, leaving behind only a few structures, most notably the charming church. Instagram+1

The site is currently undergoing a significant $22 million reconstruction, aiming to restore its former glory and serve as a vibrant hub for future film productions and public enjoyment. Visitors can witness this rebirth firsthand, exploring the grounds and seeing the progress of the new Western Town, which is slated for completion by fall 2024. Instagram This rebuilding effort is a testament to the enduring legacy of this historic filming location.

Beyond its cinematic history, Paramount Ranch is also a cherished natural space within the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Its rolling hills and scenic trails offer a peaceful retreat for hikers, equestrians, and nature lovers. The ongoing reconstruction blends the site's rich past with its promising future, making it a unique destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. InstagramReddit

Exploring Paramount Ranch's Hiking Trails

Paramount Ranch boasts a network of beautiful hiking trails that wind through the picturesque Santa Monica Mountains. These paths offer a refreshing escape into nature, with diverse scenery ranging from open grasslands to wooded areas. The trails are generally well-maintained and suitable for various fitness levels, making it an accessible destination for a day of outdoor activity. TikTokInstagram

Popular routes include the Coyote Trail, which provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Many visitors rave about how quickly the landscape transforms from the parking area into what feels like 'god's country.' Reddit The trails are also known for their vibrant wildflowers during the spring season and the soothing sounds of water, especially when crossing creeks or streams. Instagram

For those looking for a more adventurous experience, the trails can be combined to create longer loops. Horseback riding is also a popular activity here, with guided tours available, adding another dimension to exploring the ranch's natural beauty. InstagramReddit Remember to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable hiking shoes, as some trails can be moderately challenging. Reddit

Horseback Riding at Paramount Ranch

Experience the Wild West firsthand by embarking on a horseback riding adventure at Paramount Ranch. This activity offers a unique perspective of the scenic landscape, allowing you to traverse the rolling hills and forests just as cowboys and film stars once did. Instagram

Several local outfitters, such as Malibu Riders, offer guided horseback riding tours. These tours are perfect for both beginners and experienced riders, providing an opportunity to connect with nature in a memorable way. Crossing creeks and enjoying the expansive views are often highlighted as favorite parts of the experience. Instagram

Horseback riding at Paramount Ranch is more than just a recreational activity; it's a chance to immerse yourself in the ranch's rich history and its enduring connection to the equestrian and film industries. It's a highly recommended way to explore the beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains. Reddit

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