You cannot go wrong hiking in Cali....especially when you are in Malibu! This trail can be super busy, especially on early morning weekends! A nice time to visit in the summer is about 6pm on a weekday! Besides our group, we did not see a single person on the trail nor did we have to fight for a parking spot. Note there are two small parking lots both off highway before the tunnel if coming from 101. From the trail there are beautiful views of the mountains and the canyons. you can even see views of the ocean in malibu. when there is a wet winter season, you can see loads of waterfalls. my fellow hiker said she saw 18 falls. Worth visiting during the wet season. Just be careful. also note there is poisonous oak along the trail. Unfortunately in July the falls were all dry. There was some water in the creeks. As for amenities: there is a toilet at the start of the trail. read more

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This is not for the beginner hiker. You'll need hiking poles and lots of water. Other than that, it's a great trail! The hardest part is the first mile. If you can get thru that, everything else will be a breeze. At mile 2-3 you'll reach the fire lookout point. It takes about 3-4 hours to finish this trail depending on how fast you're going. read more

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Oh boy this trail is LONG. Unpleasantly LONG. With no final destination you just walk and walk and walk and walk with pretty much the same scenery. There is a waterfall in the beginning somewhere down there but there is no clear indication how to get there. Only 3 people I have met during my hike. I stopped at this sign and walked back. Horrible, unpleasant and boring. Not recommended read more

Backbone Trail - Hiking Near Me - Malibu, California

Gorgeous views, dog friendly, and peaceful. Almost feels like you have the place all to yourself. On a sunny day, don't make our mistake and bring plenty of extra water! read more

Backbone Trail - Hiking Near Me - Malibu, California

The sound of cars on the nearby road is all that will remind you of civilization as you wind up, down, and all around the canyon with great views and burnt trees. Go in the morning before it gets too hot. read more

OVER SIXTY MILES OF TRAIL!! STATS: Over 67.5 miles, done over the course of several Saturday's Highest Point: 3,000ft. above sea level Rating: Intermediate-Strenuous, not for beginners Trail: Single Track, Fire Road, Multi-Use Back in the day when my goal was to get my hiking distance up and over two digits, I joined The Crew on this adventure, hiking the Backbone Trail (BBT). Broken up into seven sections, 67.5 miles were hiked over the course of seven weekend days. Hiked as a one way car shuttle, the ending point of the previous hike was the starting point of the next. The BBT was originally supposed to run from Griffith Park to Point Mugu, but that never happened. Instead, over the course of time, with the help of many volunteers and parkland agencies, the (BBT) now runs from Will Rogers State Historic Park to Point Mugu State Park anchored in the middle by Malibu Creek State Park. The BBT runs ridges, traverses chaparral-covered hillsides, oak woodlands, and crosses creeks and valleys. Section 1- Starting from the western point of the BBT, we made our way through Danielson Ranch via the Ray Miller Overlook, Wood Canyon Vista and Sycamore Canyon. This section of the Backbone Trail is totally within Pt. Mugu State Park. The trail climbs from sea level, through the exposed coastal sage and scrub, up over the ridge and down into the shaded Big Sycamore Canyon. After passing through Danielson Ranch, we hiked up and out of the canyon to the Rancho Sierra Vista parking area. Section 2- Traverses the only wilderness area in the Santa Monica Mountains. We hiked partly on the old fire road, partly on multi-use trails, and partly on single track trails. Passing through coastal sage/scrub, oak woodlands and chaparral, we hiked from just above sea level at Danielson Ranch to the highest point in the Santa Monica's (Sandstone Peak at 3111'). Section 3-Good ocean views while crossing brushy chaparral covered slopes then, like a roller coaster ride, up and down dips through shaded stream cut canyons and Oak Woodlands. Foliage included Coastal Sage Scrub, Chaparral, Oak Woodlands, Meadows, and Sycamore Savannahs. Section 4- Continues through Coastal Sage Scrub, Chaparral, Oak Woodlands, Meadows, and Sycamore Savannahs. In this section we came across some interesting geology in the wind and erosion carved sandstone and found some fossils in the rocks and on the trail. In this section, there was some passing of old housing foundation ruins and new private estates. Section 5- Took us through an area that has almost fully recovered from the devastating fire of 1993. In 1993 fires completely burned this area and natural recovery has restored it, but you can still see some evidences of that great fire. Elevation changes in this section are strong as well as slope aspects through shaded and sunny areas. Section 6- Was filled with gorgeous views from the Mountains Restoration Trust fossil trail. Following the Fossil Trail, we descended into state park property in Hondo Canyon. Through Hondo Canyon to eventually cross Old Topanga Canyon Road and then follow exceedingly obscure trails to cross Topanga Canyon Boulevard to reach Topanga State Park. Section 7-was a chaparral, streamside, meadow, oak woodland, coastal sage/scrub day on trail. While a little long, this is mostly a downhill hike ending by the polo fields of Will Rogers State Park. This has it all, something for every hiker. It offers long ridges, steep elevation, shaded canyons, ocean views, and a few water crossings. Clearly is this not a day hike, it takes a lot of planning and organizing, especially if done as a one way shuttle hike. If you're more into keeping the mileage well above 10 miles, it is possible to break the trails mileage up into five sections. It was good to find that I was able to hike for long distances and still get out of bed the next day. I was also an eye opener. It was then that I realized, I wasn't a ridge hiker. Put me in a canyon with some water to trudge through, boulders to climb, bush to whack, and I'm a happy hiker. DISCLAIMER: Hiking is not something that can be taken lightly. It can be life-threatening as you see and hear on the news, people die or get lost all time. Please, if you are going to hike, never go alone and prepare for the worst, hope for the best. Remember when going for a hike, no matter how short you think it may be, always be prepared. Carry at least two liters of water for every five miles (more if the weather is warm), protein bar, nuts, and electrolytes. Wear sturdy lug sole shoes and protective clothing. Some areas the weather can change quicker than a fireman can put on his gear. It is also very important, always always always let a family member or friend know where you are going and when you expect to be back. Lastly, have fun when you hike it up. read more

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I'm surprised I haven't done a review for this one yet, It's one I frequently hit. This trail crosses the Santa Monica Mountains at a total of 69 miles and this section I"m writing about is just one piece of it. This part of the trail you can go for 2.5 miles and it's really pretty right now in the spring with blooming flowers, stream running through below and plenty of green. Summer time it becomes dry and hard to do in the heat if you don't get an early start. It has inclines here and there but nothing complicated- I've seen bikers on this one although I would not be able to bring my Mountain Bike to this- just not skilled enough to pick a line around those graveled rock areas and there are a few sections it becomes single trek which is difficult with the amount of hikers that come here. Come super early Mountain Bikers :)) You can print the map out on line of this entire trail and places to catch it. read more

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This is the trail that you kinda get a glimpse of as you are speeding through tunnels on Kanan Rd on your way to the beach. The Yelp page for this location is unfortunately not very specific; Backbone Trail is almost 67 miles long! A better title would be Kanan Rd Trailhead on the Backbone Trail. After you park you'll have to decide between two very different trails, Zuma Ridge Motorway or Latigo Canyon Trailhead. Zuma Ridge trailhead takes you down into Newton Canyon and then climbs you back up where you hike along the mountain ridge. It pretty much runs along the path of the canyon's creek. It feels more isolated and lower elevation as compared to Latigo. I would choose this option if you are looking for a long hike (over 5 miles round trip) and if you enjoy hearing the sounds of trickling water (and frogs) along the way. It eventually will lead you to a small "waterfall" called Newton Falls. The Zuma Ridge trail quickly climbs you up a mountain ridge and then it takes you over a tunnel. You'll get some nice views of luxury homes. It's cool viewing the Kanan Rd tunnel from a bird's eye perspective. It's a better option if you are more interested in a good workout or a shorter hike. Here are some interesting bits of info that I learned from the park service pamphlet. The word Zuma is derived from Chumash language and it means "abundance." On your hike you might hear the sounds of the shy wrentit. It is rarely seen but can be heard by its distinctive ping pong sound that it makes. It's been called the "voice of chaparral." read more

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Superb Trail for Hiking! We went on Christmas Day 2016 on this Trail. Hiked 6.5 miles in almost 4 hours. We were a party of 8 adults 4 children plus a dog. We started at the Tapia Trail Head and ended at the coral canyon end. Kept 2 cars at each end coz coming back 6.5 miles again was not possible. We walked 16000 steps that day on the trail alone. Magnificent views of the Valley and and Pacific! Will hike Part 2 coming week probably. read more

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The Backbone Trail is stunning. So much vibrant colors between flowers and fresh moss - you almost forget you're in LA!

The Backbone Trail in Malibu is a gorgeous, pristine venue. When you're here, it's hard to believe just how close you are to downtown LA. Your specific experience can vary tremendously depending on exactly which trailhead you start from. What all your experiences here will have in common though is the well cared-for single track, and a plethora of wildlife. At various times I've seen dear, bobcats, coyotes, owls, hawks, and (of course) snakes. Tip: In hot weather, you need to keep your eyes peeled for rattlesnakes; if you see one avoid it if possible, and take great pains not to surprise it The scenery here is beautiful, and the views can be breathtaking! There are literally miles and miles of trails you can hike or run on, so either bring a map and a compass, or be darn certain you know where you're going - this isn't the kind of place you want to get lost in after sunset. If you're a dog lover, feel free to bring your four-footed buddy along for your hike, but having Fido off-leash is frowned upon. Be sure to bring along plenty of water for both you and your pooch as well -during hot weather, you'll both be thankful for a good supply of water. Bottom line: Plan carefully and be respectful of the venue and the weather, and you'll be rewarded with hours of varied and beautiful scenery, as well as some fantastic views of the ocean, mountains, and canyons. read more

I had this place bookmarked but didn't know it was also a part of the Latigo canyon trail. Hiked this today from Latigo canyon road and wanted to make it to corral canyon, but I stopped with maybe a mile left cause my dog was not going to make it. I have a maltese and the four mile trek to corral canyon would've been too much and then we would need to go back. I found the trail through an article http://www.examiner.com/article/hiking-the-backbone-trail-from-latigo-canyon-road-to-castro-crest-malibu and it was definitely helpful in getting there. Turn right to Latigo canyon road from pch and drive about 7 miles till you get to a dirt lot. You won't be able to miss it. I thought I would but you will recognize a dirt parking lot when you see it (keep going past the winery and you will be close). The road is very winding up to the trail head so I suggest you take it slow. I was going about 20 mph the whole way because there are many mountain bikers and other cars going down at a fast speed and sometimes you can't see around the bend. The trail is pretty narrow but not too bad. It was gravelly but overall not a strenuous hike, just long. I enjoyed it a lot, especially because it wasn't hot and there was a lot of shade. I suggest hiking with a buddy, because this trail is not very well known with hikers. I saw a lot of mountain bikers so you're not completely isolated, but the trail can get lonely. It is about 1.5 miles to get to the antennas, and another 3ish miles to get to corral canyon. I did meet one hiker who told me to be careful with ticks during this time. I was worried about my dog, but I suggest just watching your pet closely and giving him or her a thorough bath once you get home. I would definitely come back here again to complete the trail since it was a good work out, but not have my dog with me since 4 miles is the max she can do. read more

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Breathtaking view. fairly easy hike. Totally worth the scenery and vast beauty you encounter during your hike. It is a total of 8.4 miles to hike and I love that it is not crowded at all. If you are in the area, I recommend this hike. I believe it is dog friendly as well. The whole hike took me about 3 hours with mini stops to enjoy the beautiful scenery and view of Malibu beach. read more

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I did not like this trail...hiked it with friends and everyone decided to end hike early and go somewhere else. The problem with this trail is that the shrubbery that aligns the trail blocks your view...you can only see in front of you and behind you. It is a good workout, but not the best for enjoying nature and beautiful views. read more

Well, we were aiming for the Solstice trail and epically failed, so maybe next time :) haha But the backbone trail we only went 3 miles in and turned around, but it's definitely beautiful! And such a long trail. Can se all the greens, Definitely glad we went early in the morning! And i wouldn't want to do it in the middle of heat, and it's only February.... read more

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Awesome Hike in Malibu. The opposite of Runyon. No crowds, challenging inclines! On some days you can see the Pacific Ocean, depending on the amount of Marine Layer Present. read more

Backbone Trail - Awesome 7 mile hike, based in Malibu - Hiking Near Me - Malibu, California

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I do not recommend this Trail 4 mountain bikes. A good portion of it is not even open for bikes and you are risking getting a ticket from the Ranger. In addition, you will find yourself carrying your bike uphill for miles and making numerous stops getting off and on the bike over Boulder's. Yes, the views are breathtaking. Next time I might be hiking it. read more

Backbone Trail - Hiking Near Me - Malibu, California

The trailhead and parking lot were closed as of 2/18/19 with no end date listed on the sign. Can't wait for it to reopen!

This was probably one of my favorite hikes! First off, it was completely empty (not only because it's a hidden gem, but because it was sprinkling) There is a lot right outside the entrance. But there's limited parking spaces! Not a lot. So be sure to get here quite early! I did not see any other spots (street parking) you could potentially park at. The bathrooms are CLEAN!! I was in shock. I was expecting it to be dirty with urine everywhere but it wasn't! I was quite pleased. TRAIL: This trail is really easy. It had some uphill, but nothing too hard. I think it would be a good trail for beginners. It's an enjoyable experience. I do not recommend strollers / or any of that sort. It does have some rocky parts in the beginning of the trail. The trail is 2.5 miles long. However, If you continue to go on to a different trail, the 2.5 miles stretch out to 8 miles. read more

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One of the best running trails in California. Just watch out for creepers. A year ago I was approached by a weirdo in the parking lot but the mountain bikers know me and scared him off. Bring mace ladies. It's isolated and not for ppl who get scared of being alone in the mountains. I love being alone so I'm cool w it. You can do the 2.5 hike in and out for a total of 5 miles or you can follow the fire road up to he left and keep going. Great view at the top which is about another 2.5 miles up. So in and our can be as long or short as you like:) I do 10miles. read more

A bit of a slog to drive up there but the views are worth it - both toward the ocean and inland - and the hike has some ups and downs but nothing difficult. Next time we will plan to do the full 5 miles out and back (10-mi RT). Went on a Tuesday and saw nobody else on the trail. We parked on a siding a few hundred yards past the trailhead, on the left. Not the one that says private (though I question whether it really is) but the one just past it that has a 'Federal Land' signs and a piece of big old wheeled machinery. read more

One of the funnest trail runs in all of LA. Slightly challenging but I couldn't ask for better topography and views. It's jaggedy at times but worth it! You can easily do a 10k or more with the easily marked trails. read more

I hiked half of the BBT from Kanan road to Pt. Magu last year (~35 miles). I started at 11am and finished the next day on the beach at about 3pm. Lack of water sources was the biggest problem and I had to ask hikers on Sandstone to share water as I was running out. Danielson ranch is the only place you can get a refill. The trail is very well marked from Kanan all the way to the State Park line (~8 miles north of Sandstone Peak). The NPS did a great job of marking the trail with the exception of the northward section near Encinal Cny Road. Keep to the left, and if you end up on the road you need to double back. Once you get to Big Sycamore Canyon Road (at Danielson ranch) you should rest up and DO NOT attempt to walk the 'Wood Cyn Trail' when the sun is high. Absolutely no shade here for the next 8 miles or so and ALL uphill. Grueling when hot. Lots of mtn bikers speeding at 20 miles per hr at you also on narrow path. Once you get to the top turn left to Overlook trail. This section is the most Confusing of all and really needs good trail markers. DO NOT go right toward Gudalasca or Loop trail. Loop trail claims to get you to Ray Miller but it was washed out and is not passable, plus its much longer. Continue on Overlook and you will be rewarded with the best sight of the whole trek: a beautiful blue ocean view. Second best view was on Sandstone Peak at 3,330 feet, the highest point of the Santa Monica mountains. I also camped up here. Hikers leave after sundown and arrive for sunrise. The walk up to Sandstone is hard after walking 20 miles but the descent on the north side is beautiful and serene with lots of vegetation. I even saw a few deer here. I highly recommend this hike (35 miles) but only for for experienced hikers because of the lack of water. I carried 5 liters (1.25 G) and it was not enough. See you on the trail and HYOH. ;) read more

Nice trail but leave the pups at home. Hiked today and my dog came out with 8 ticks!!!! I would hike this again but without my dog since the paths are pretty narrow. read more

Loved this Trail. Very nice view and not over crowded. Everyone we did encounter was polite. The mountain bike group had perfect trail etiquette and let us know how many they had so we could know when to proceed. It is great for hikers looking for a nice low difficulty trail. read more

Not to shabby but the down fall is the trail is not suitable for a stroller & the water fall was not as eye catching as it is online. There is however nice view's read more

Backbone Trail - Hiking Near Me - Malibu, California

Backbone Trail is one of the best mountain biking places in the Santa Monica mountains. There are many sections of the trail. There is a trailhead on Kanan just past the first tunnel if you are coming from the beach side. Facing the ocean, the side of the trail on the right is a really fun rolling intermediate with lots of down and up about three miles long. You can turn around at the end and it's an entirely different trail coming back the other direction. The side of the trail on the left starts with a small climb over the tunnel and takes you across Kanan to the other side. There are some sections that are very challenging and the whole trail is beautiful. All of this applies to hiking as well, but who would walk when you can bike?!?! read more

Wow! A great trail running experience out of Will Rogers State Park. I've run this trail twice now getting about six miles out on the trail for about a 12 mile out and back run. The views, terrain, plants and animals vary greatly as you enjoy this steep, technical trail. There are some sections that are very technical including rocks, roots, steps, and bridges. Other parts of the run are nice smooth trail with views that alternate between ocean and mountain ridges and canyons. The farther you get out on the trail the fewer people you encounter and the more able you are to enjoy the solitude. Bring lots of water! Both times I have run here it has been very hot. Both times I parked inside the State park and paid $12.00 for the privilege but feel strongly about supporting our parks! After running , the ranger gave me directions to the closest beach and I drove down the hill and had a great swim followed by a nice beach nap. Life is good! read more

Since Runyon Canyon is closed this summer, we decided to try the new Backbone Trail. We started at the eastern end trailhead in Will Rogers state park and hiked about 4 miles in. Hey, this is a 67 mile trail and I don't plan to ever hike the whole thing. However, for those suffering from Runyon withdrawal symptoms, this trail is a great substitute. We had fun. read more