1/27/2024 0 Comments Backbone trail malibuCastro Peak, the highest point in the eastern Santa Monica Mountains, towers above. This spot, the highest point on the route, provides views in both directions and makes a good turnaround point for those short on time, traveling with kids or on warm days. You climb a little over 500 feet in a mile, the upper part of which is exposed, to reach a saddle called Castro Crest (2.7 miles from the start). The trail meanders across a meadow, through a mixed woodland of oaks and sycamores and crosses a couple of stream beds (usually dry) before beginning the first major ascent of the route. You soon merge briefly with a service road and then continue southwest, dropping into the upper reaches of Solstice Canyon. While it may seem a little long for a hike that doesn’t pay off in a major summit or other recognizable destination, its relatively light visitation makes it one of the better spots in the Santa Monica Mountains for solitude.įrom the parking area, follow the Backbone Trail downhill and west, descending through oak chaparral. This central section of the Backbone Trail makes for an enjoyable moderate day hike, with secluded woodlands, interesting geology, spring wildflowers and some panoramic views. Country Trails description/map of the trail here (Corral Canyon to Castro Crest) and here (Castro Crest to Latigo Canyon) More information: Trip descriptions here and here Area trail map and descriptions here L.A.The nearest camping is available at Malibu Creek State Park. Cell phone reception: None for most of the route weak at the western end of the hike (Latigo Canyon Road).Dogs: Allowed on leash (exercise caution on warm days watch out for poison oak).Difficulty Rating: PG-13 (distance, elevation gain).Agency: Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. The Backbone Trail heads downhill from the west side of the lot. From the Pacific Coast Highway, take Corral Canyon (2.3 miles west of Malibu Canyon Road, 0.7 miles east of Latigo Canyon Road) north for 5 miles to its end in a large dirt lot. Location: Santa Monica Mountains, near Malibu.
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