

#Backbone trail hike full
Lack of “legal” campsites and natural water sources, however, creates a tricky logistical puzzle for hikers who want to cover its entire length in one go.Īfter connecting the dots on a recent eastbound winter thru-hike of the Backbone Trail, I hope to demystify this incredible route so that more people can experience what I feel is one of the best-and most challenging-multi-day backpacking trips located near a major city (that’s Los Angeles, if you’re wondering).įind the full article written by Shawnté Salabert here. The complete trail is 7 miles long and is intersected by all three of the.

The other end is located on FR 339, also just off FH 59. Please register at the park office before climbing. Check out Backbone Trail for some of the most popular climbing spots. In the winter, explore the park’s snowmobile and cross-country ski trails. The trailhead is at Newton Canyon near Agoura Hills. This portion is known for the lush greenery plus ocean views throughout the canyon. One trailhead is just off FH 59 (Longleaf Scenic Byway) on FR 329 at the Caroline Dormon/Backbone Trailheads. Hike through the 21-mile trail system and venture along twisted and windblown cedars up rough, rocky staircases. Backbone Trail through Zumba Canyon: This difficult 9-mile hike is a gorgeous trek through oak and cottonwood trees, hummingbird sage, and purple flowering blue witch. It makes for a gorgeous backpacking route in winter and spring when hillsides explode with bright bursts of wildflowers and carpets of impossibly green foliage. Day Hiking Backbone Trail: The Backbone Trail is the main trail out of the 4 separate wilderness hikes. The Backbone Trail traces a rollercoaster path across the spine of Southern California’s Santa Monica Mountains, traversing craggy peaks, lush canyons, and grassy ridgelines, often within view of the Pacific Ocean. Backpacking the Santa Monica Mountains’ Backbone Trail 67 MILE HIKING AND BACKPACKING TRAIL IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
