Backbone Trail: Hiking the Spine of the Santa Monica Mountains
Hike the Backbone Trail: A scenic 67-mile journey through the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains, offering stunning views and diverse landscapes.
The Backbone Trail is a 67.79-mile (109.10 km) National Recreation Trail that traverses the Santa Monica Mountains, offering diverse landscapes from coastal vistas to inland canyons. It stretches from Will Rogers State Historic Park to Point Mugu State Park, providing a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience through a unique Mediterranean ecosystem.
A brief summary to Backbone Trail
- California, US
Local tips
- Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for changing conditions. The Santa Monica Mountains can experience hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you are hiking a long section of the trail. Water sources are limited, so it's important to carry enough to stay hydrated.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes and appropriate clothing. The trail can be rocky and uneven in places, so good footwear is essential.
- Be aware of wildlife, including rattlesnakes and mountain lions. Keep a safe distance and never feed the animals.
- Obey all trail signs and regulations. Stay on marked trails and respect private property.
Getting There
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Driving & Shuttle
To access the Backbone Trail from Los Angeles, driving is the most practical option. Depending on the trailhead you choose, navigate to the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) for western access points like Point Mugu State Park, or take the 101 Freeway to reach trailheads closer to the city, such as those near Topanga State Park or Will Rogers State Historic Park. Parking fees vary depending on the park. For example, Will Rogers State Historic Park charges for day-use parking. If planning a point-to-point hike, consider using a ride-sharing service or arranging a car shuttle between trailheads. Keep in mind that overnight parking can be difficult to arrange at some trailheads.
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Public Transport
While public transportation directly to Backbone Trail trailheads is limited, you can combine bus routes with ride-sharing services. For trailheads near the coast, take the Metro Bus Line 534 to reach areas along the Pacific Coast Highway, then use a ride-sharing app to get to the specific trailhead. For trailheads further inland, take a Metro Bus to a central location like a park-and-ride near the 101 Freeway, then use a ride-sharing service to complete your journey to the trailhead. Cost: Metro bus fares are typically around $1.75 per ride, with day passes available for approximately $3.50. Ride-sharing costs will vary depending on distance and demand.
Discover more about Backbone Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Former Home of Stan Laurel
6.9 km
Explore the Former Home of Stan Laurel in Malibu, where classic comedy meets stunning coastal views and rich Hollywood history.
Little Dume Beach
7.8 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Little Dume Beach, a serene public beach in Malibu, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying coastal views.
Reyes Adobe Historical Site
8.0 km
Discover California's Rancho past at the Reyes Adobe Historical Site in Agoura Hills, where history comes alive through tours, exhibits, and vibrant community events.
Malibu Bluffs Park
8.5 km
Explore the breathtaking views and natural beauty of Malibu Bluffs Park, a quintessential Californian coastal experience.
Point Dume
9.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views, scenic hikes, and serene beaches of Point Dume in Malibu, a coastal paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Charmlee Wilderness Park
9.3 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and scenic views at Charmlee Wilderness Park, a perfect retreat for nature lovers in Malibu, California.
Legacy Park
9.6 km
Discover the serene landscapes and vibrant beauty of Legacy Park in Malibu, a perfect natural escape for tourists and nature lovers alike.
El Matador State Beach
10.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of El Matador State Beach, a hidden gem in Malibu known for stunning rock formations and serene ocean views.
Adamson House Museum
10.3 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Adamson House Museum, a jewel on Malibu's breathtaking coastline.
Malibu Lagoon State Beach
10.3 km
Experience the idyllic charm of Malibu Lagoon State Beach, a serene coastal paradise perfect for relaxation, nature exploration, and unforgettable sunsets.
Malibu Point
10.3 km
Explore the breathtaking coastal views, outdoor adventures, and serene atmosphere of Malibu Point, a must-visit attraction on California's coastline.
Surfrider Beach
10.4 km
Discover the beauty of Surfrider Beach in Malibu, where surfing meets stunning sunsets and unforgettable coastal experiences.
Malibu Pier
10.5 km
Discover the scenic beauty and rich history of Malibu Pier, a must-visit attraction for tourists seeking a quintessential California experience.
Wishtoyo Chumash Village
13.1 km
Discover the traditions and lifeways of the Chumash people at this living history museum in Malibu, offering cultural immersion and environmental awareness on California's coast.
Nicholas Canyon Beach
13.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Latigo Canyon Road Scenic Drive
1.8 km
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Solstice Canyon
4.1 km
Discover the natural beauty and rich history of Solstice Canyon, a hidden gem in Malibu offering stunning views and outdoor adventures.
Escondido Falls
4.1 km
Discover Malibu's hidden waterfall: Hike through scenic Escondido Canyon to a lush oasis, a refreshing escape into nature just moments from the Pacific Coast Highway.
View Site
4.1 km
Discover Malibu's hidden gem: El Matador State Beach, where dramatic sea stacks meet pristine shores for an unforgettable coastal escape. A must-see for nature lovers and photographers.
Paramount Ranch
4.7 km
Experience the Wild West at Paramount Ranch: A historic film set with stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and a glimpse into Hollywood's rich history.
Malibu Creek State Park
4.7 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Malibu Creek State Park, a premier destination for outdoor adventures in California.
Ramirez Canyon Park
4.8 km
Discover Malibu's hidden gem: Ramirez Canyon Park, a serene escape with lush trails, tranquil streams, and breathtaking views, awaiting your exploration in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains.
Escondido Canyon Park
5.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Escondido Canyon Park in Malibu, California – a perfect destination for hiking, photography, and nature lovers.
Malibu Wine Hikes
5.3 km
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Dan Blocker Beach Malibu
6.1 km
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Corral State Beach
6.1 km
Discover Malibu's hidden gem: Corral State Beach, where stunning ocean views, soft sands, and diverse activities create the perfect coastal escape along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Corral Canyon Park
6.3 km
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Malibu Hindu Temple
6.5 km
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Anthony C. Beilenson Interagency Visitor Center
7.0 km
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Public Beach Access Point
7.4 km
Discover Puerco Beach in Malibu: A serene coastal escape with stunning views, perfect for swimming, surfing, and breathtaking sunsets, offering a tranquil retreat from crowded beaches.
Essential places to dine
The Malibu Cafe
3.9 km
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Old Place
3.9 km
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Calamigos Ranch
3.9 km
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Geoffrey's
6.1 km
Experience breathtaking ocean views and exquisite Californian cuisine at Geoffrey's in Malibu - a must-visit culinary destination.
Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market & Patio Cafe
6.4 km
Experience fresh seafood like never before at Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market & Patio Cafe - where ocean views meet culinary delight.
Paradise Cove Beach Café
6.7 km
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Gravina Malibu
6.8 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Gravina Malibu, where stunning ocean views meet culinary excellence.
JUJU Asian Kitchen Malibu
7.1 km
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Lily's Malibu
7.1 km
Experience authentic Latin American flavors at Lily's Malibu - your go-to breakfast destination on California’s stunning coastline.
HAWC café and dining space
7.8 km
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Saddle Peak Lodge
7.8 km
Experience exquisite New American cuisine amidst historical charm at Saddle Peak Lodge in Calabasas.
Spruzzo Restaurant & Bar
7.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at Spruzzo Restaurant & Bar in Malibu.
Kristy's Malibu
8.0 km
Experience delightful American cuisine with stunning ocean views at Kristy's Malibu - where every meal is a seaside escape.
The Sunset Restaurant
8.4 km
Experience exquisite American and seafood cuisine at The Sunset Restaurant while enjoying breathtaking ocean views in beautiful Malibu.
Sabor A Malibu food Truck
8.4 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Sabor A Malibu - where delicious tacos meet stunning coastal views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sorenity Rocks
7.0 km
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Abierto
7.1 km
Discover unique gifts and artisanal treasures at Abierto, the charming gift shop in Malibu, California, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Point Dume Village
7.1 km
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C.Bonz
7.4 km
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HIPTIQUE
8.0 km
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Nati Boutique Malibu Trancas
8.0 km
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Trancas Country Market
8.1 km
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Skill Chart
9.2 km
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Barefoot Dreams Flagship Store
9.6 km
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Sorenity Rocks Malibu
9.6 km
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Creo Arthouse
9.7 km
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Bleusalt
9.7 km
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Nomad Malibu
9.7 km
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M.Fredric
9.7 km
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CB2 Design Shop
9.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Calamigos Beach Club Restaurant & Lounge
6.1 km
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Santosh kumar
9.2 km
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Sparky’s Sports Bar
9.7 km
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Rafi Lounge
10.8 km
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Barefoot Bar
14.0 km
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Rosenthal Wine Bar & Patio
18.5 km
Experience the essence of Malibu at Rosenthal Wine Bar & Patio, where fine wines meet stunning ocean views in a welcoming atmosphere.
THE BUNGALOW
26.4 km
Discover The Bungalow, a stylish bar and restaurant in Santa Monica offering a unique blend of relaxation, vibrant nightlife, and coastal charm.
The Coco Club
26.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Coco Club, Santa Monica's premier rooftop bar and lounge with stunning ocean views and crafted cocktails.
Ye Olde King's Head
26.9 km
Discover the charm of British cuisine at Ye Olde King's Head in Santa Monica, a brewpub and tea house offering a delightful culinary experience.
Bar Chloe
27.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique cocktails at Bar Chloe, Santa Monica's trendy bar perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Esters Wine Shop & Bar
27.0 km
Experience the finest selection of wines and gourmet bites at Esters Wine Shop & Bar in Santa Monica, where every sip tells a story.
Lanea
27.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lanea, a Santa Monica cocktail bar offering delicious Mexican cuisine and live music in a chic beach setting.
Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe
27.1 km
Experience the best of Santa Monica dining at Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe, where fresh seafood and stunning ocean views come together.
The Backyard
27.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of The Backyard in Santa Monica, where crafted cocktails and coastal cuisine meet in a stunning outdoor oasis.
Bodega Wine Bar
27.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of artisan pizzas, fine wines, and a cozy ambiance at Bodega Wine Bar in Santa Monica, California.
