Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

My friend and I stopped by the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area Interagency Visitor Center this morning to pick up a trail map before we went running at Malibu Creek State Park.
I expected a small office with a single desk where I’d request a map, pay my money, and be on my way. I was pleasantly surprised to see that there was a well-​stocked gift shop with books, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area souvenirs, clothing, and other local gifts.
They had Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area sweatshirts and t-​shirts by American Apparel. They even had Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area magnets, water bottles, and water bottle carriers. Art pieces from local artists were also featured in the store.
I had initially planned on picking up a $ 3 map of the Santa Monica Mountain trails but the helpful docent showed me some beautiful waterproof and tear resistant plastic Tom Harrison topographic maps. I ended up buying two — Malibu Creek State Park and Topanga State Park. They were $ 9.95 but I felt it was worth it — I figured I’d end up killing less trees in the long run if I could re-​use the maps over and over.
My friend picked up a jar of locally grown and made Meyer Lemon and Blood Orange jelly. I picked up a jar of locally grown honey.
I’m not sure what the daily hours are but she said they were open from 7 am to 5 pm today (a Saturday). They also had very well maintained bathrooms so you could always swing by here, check out the awesome store, and use the facilities before you hit the trails.
They also have free events that are open to the public: