Backbone Trail: Hiking the Spine of the Santa Monica Mountains
Hike the Backbone Trail: 67 miles of stunning views and diverse ecosystems in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains.
The Backbone Trail is a 67-mile National Recreation Trail that traverses the Santa Monica Mountains, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands, and diverse Mediterranean ecosystems. It's a challenging but rewarding hike through varied terrains, connecting state parks and wilderness areas.
A brief summary to Backbone Trail
- California, US
Local tips
- Check trail conditions and closures before heading out, especially after the Woolsey Fire which caused damage in 2018.
- Bring plenty of water, as water sources along the trail can be unreliable, especially during dry seasons.
- Wear appropriate footwear and sun protection, as the trail can be rocky and exposed.
- Be aware of wildlife, including mountain lions and rattlesnakes.
- Consider hiking the trail in sections, as there are limited camping opportunities along the route.
Getting There
-
Driving
Access to the Backbone Trail is available via multiple trailheads, including Will Rogers State Historic Park, Trippet Ranch in Topanga State Park, and Point Mugu State Park. Parking is available at most trailheads, though some may have limited spaces. Check for parking restrictions and fees before you arrive. From Highway 101, exit onto Las Virgenes Road and follow signs to various trailheads. Note that some trailheads like Saddle Peak have limited parking on Stunt Road.
-
Public Transport
Public transportation options to Backbone Trail trailheads are limited. However, some trailheads may be accessible via bus routes. Check the Los Angeles Metro website for bus routes that serve the general vicinity of the Santa Monica Mountains. From bus stops, you may need to walk or use ride-sharing services to reach specific trailheads. Costs for public transport vary depending on distance, typically ranging from $1.75 for a single fare.
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
Discover the serene beauty of Nicholas Canyon Beach in Malibu, where sun, sand, and stunning ocean views await every visitor.
Unmissable attractions to see
Latigo Canyon Road Scenic Drive
1.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Malibu with a drive along Latigo Canyon Road, offering panoramic ocean views, dramatic canyon landscapes, and unforgettable sunsets.
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
Experience the perfect blend of hiking and wine tasting in Malibu's breathtaking landscapes at Malibu Wine Hikes.
Dan Blocker Beach Malibu
6.1 km
Discover a tranquil Malibu escape at Dan Blocker Beach, offering stunning ocean views, diverse activities, and a rich history along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway.
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
Discover Malibu's natural beauty at Corral Canyon Park: Hike scenic trails, explore diverse ecosystems, and soak in breathtaking ocean views in this coastal paradise.
Malibu Hindu Temple
6.5 km
Discover the spiritual heart of Southern California at the Malibu Hindu Temple, a stunning architectural masterpiece offering a serene escape and a glimpse into ancient traditions.
Anthony C. Beilenson Interagency Visitor Center
7.0 km
Discover the beauty of California's landscapes at the Anthony C. Beilenson Interagency Visitor Center, your gateway to nature and adventure.
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
Experience culinary bliss at The Malibu Cafe - where delicious American cuisine meets stunning coastal views.
Old Place
3.9 km
Experience the best steaks and American cuisine at Old Place in Agoura Hills, where rustic charm meets culinary excellence amidst breathtaking views.
Calamigos Ranch
3.9 km
Discover the beauty of Calamigos Ranch in Malibu: an idyllic restaurant and event venue surrounded by nature's splendor.
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
Discover exquisite American cuisine at Paradise Cove Beach Café with stunning ocean views in Malibu's idyllic coastal setting.
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
Savor exquisite Asian flavors at JUJU Asian Kitchen Malibu, where culinary creativity meets breathtaking coastal views.
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
Discover delicious local flavors at HAWC Café in Malibu - where great food meets breathtaking ocean views.
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
Explore the enchanting world of crystals and minerals at Sorenity Rocks, Malibu's unique boutique and rock shop by the Pacific Coast Highway.
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
Discover Point Dume Village in Malibu: a perfect blend of shopping, dining, and stunning coastal views.
C.Bonz
7.4 km
Explore the essence of Malibu fashion at C.Bonz, where haute couture meets vintage charm in a welcoming community atmosphere.
HIPTIQUE
8.0 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at HIPTIQUE, a charming shop in Malibu that embodies the coastal lifestyle with a curated selection of treasures.
Nati Boutique Malibu Trancas
8.0 km
Discover the chic elegance of Nati Boutique in Malibu Trancas, where coastal charm meets trendy women's fashion and accessories.
Trancas Country Market
8.1 km
Explore Trancas Country Market in Malibu, a delightful blend of shopping, dining, and stunning coastal views for an unforgettable experience.
Skill Chart
9.2 km
Discover unique treasures at Skill Chart, a charming store in Malibu, showcasing local artistry and coastal-inspired products.
Barefoot Dreams Flagship Store
9.6 km
Discover unparalleled comfort and style at the Barefoot Dreams Flagship Store in Malibu, where luxury meets relaxation in every piece.
Sorenity Rocks Malibu
9.6 km
Explore Sorenity Rocks Malibu, a unique boutique rock shop offering stunning crystals and a tranquil shopping experience in beautiful Malibu, California.
Creo Arthouse
9.7 km
Explore Creo Arthouse, Malibu's charming gift shop featuring unique artisanal gifts and home goods that capture the artistic spirit of the area.
Bleusalt
9.7 km
Explore Bleusalt in Malibu for stylish, sustainable clothing that captures the essence of California's coastal lifestyle.
Nomad Malibu
9.7 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Nomad Malibu, where style meets the stunning coastal vibe of California.
M.Fredric
9.7 km
Discover unique fashion and accessories at M.Fredric, Malibu's top boutique for women and children's clothing.
CB2 Design Shop
9.7 km
Explore the stylish offerings of CB2 Design Shop, where modern furniture meets coastal charm in beautiful Malibu, CA.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Calamigos Beach Club Restaurant & Lounge
6.1 km
Experience the allure of Malibu at Calamigos Beach Club, where exquisite dining meets breathtaking ocean views.
Santosh kumar
9.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Santosh Kumar in Malibu, where exquisite drinks meet breathtaking ocean views for an unforgettable experience.
Sparky’s Sports Bar
9.7 km
Experience the thrill of live sports, delicious food, and great drinks at Sparky's Sports Bar in Malibu, the ultimate destination for sports enthusiasts.
Rafi Lounge
10.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and productivity at Rafi Lounge in Malibu, where wellness meets creativity along the beautiful coast.
Barefoot Bar
14.0 km
Discover the laid-back charm of Barefoot Bar in Malibu, where refreshing drinks meet stunning ocean views in a vibrant coastal atmosphere.
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.
