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Backbone Trail: A Journey Through the Santa Monica Mountains
Hike the Backbone Trail: Discover 67 miles of stunning scenery, diverse ecosystems, and panoramic views in the Santa Monica Mountains.
The Backbone Trail is a 67-mile National Recreation Trail that traverses the Santa Monica Mountains, offering diverse landscapes, from coastal sage scrub to oak woodlands, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Los Angeles Basin. It's a challenging yet rewarding experience for hikers, equestrians, and mountain bikers.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Backbone Trail
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
California, US
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Getting There
Public Transport
To access the Backbone Trail via public transportation, start by taking the Metro Red Line to the Universal City station. Transfer to Metro Bus Line 222 towards 'Canyon Country'. Get off near 'Canyon View Park,' a 15-minute walk to the trailhead. Note that public transportation may only reach trailheads on the eastern end of the trail.
Ride Share
For a direct route, use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Input 'Backbone Trail, California' as your destination. Be aware of potential traffic congestion in Los Angeles, which may affect travel time and cost. A ride from Hollywood to a Backbone Trail trailhead can range from $30 to $60 depending on the distance and traffic.
Driving
Access to trailheads varies depending on the specific section of the Backbone Trail. For the eastern end near Will Rogers State Historic Park, take Sunset Boulevard. For the western terminus near Point Mugu State Park, use the Pacific Coast Highway. Parking fees may apply at some trailheads located within state parks. Parking along Piuma Road near Saddle Peak can be limited. Be sure to park completely off the road where parking is permitted.
Local tips
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Check for trail closures and fire restrictions before heading out, especially during dry season.
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Bring plenty of water, as water sources are scarce along the trail.
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Wear sturdy hiking boots and be prepared for varying terrain.
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Be aware of wildlife, including rattlesnakes, ticks, and poison oak.
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Plan your route in advance and carry a map, as the trail crosses multiple land jurisdictions with varying regulations.
Discover more about Backbone Trail
The Backbone Trail is a 67-mile journey through the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. This National Recreation Trail, completed in 2016, connects Will Rogers State Historic Park in the east with Point Mugu State Park in the west, offering a diverse range of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Construction of the trail began in the 1980s, piecing together existing trails, fire roads, and newly constructed segments. The trail showcases the unique Mediterranean ecosystem of the Santa Monica Mountains, with coastal sage scrub, chaparral, oak woodlands, and riparian areas. Hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the Channel Islands, and the sprawling Los Angeles Basin.
The Backbone Trail offers a variety of trail experiences, from easy-going fire roads to more challenging single-track paths with significant elevation changes. The trail passes through several parks and natural areas, including Topanga State Park, Malibu Creek State Park, and Circle X Ranch, each offering unique landscapes and points of interest. Sandstone Peak, the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains, is a popular destination along the trail, offering breathtaking views.
While the entire trail can be hiked in sections as day trips, multi-day backpacking trips require careful planning due to limited camping options and water sources. The trail is open to hikers year-round, but winter and spring are ideal due to milder temperatures and wildflower blooms.
A brief summary to Backbone Trail
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