Santa Monica Mountains ridgeline trail has been a vision for more than 50 years. Originally, it was to run from Griffith Park to Point Mugu, but that idea never went forward. In the 1970s, with the establishment of state parks in the mountains, the notion began to crystallize. The Backbone Trail would stretch from Will Rogers State Historic Park to Point Mugu, anchored in the middle by Malibu Creek State Park.
When completed, The Backbone Trail will be 65 miles long. Unfortunately, not all of it will be open to mountain bikers. Bikes will be restricted to fireroads except for certain areas of singletrack. This route describes a 12.66-mile out-and-back section of nicely maintained singletrack with a high fun factor which is a favorite of local riders.
This route goes east from the TH parking area. Begin with a steep climb going south. The trail will then turn east and take you across Kanan Road by crossing the top of the tunnel. You will cross Latigo Canyon Road (and TH) at mile 2.23. You will arrive at the saddle (Newton Mtwy) at mile 3.63 and reach your turnaround point at Corral Canyon Road (and TH) at mile 6.35.
This route has a lot of fun descents going both ways; which you will earn with a series of climbs. Nothing too serious and all doable. You will feel like you've had a great ride when you're back to your vehicle.
This trail has a bit of everything. Some semi-challenging climbs, some flowy sections, rock gardens, shaded canyons. We like riding this trail a lot watch for poison oak in the canyon sections
| ThankThis is a great trail with fantastic views. It is really hard to believe that you are right in the middle of one of the densest population areas in the State. Lots of ups and downs but nothing too extreme. Just really good singletrack in a great location. A definite SoCal must-do.
| ThankThere's a lot of fun riding in this section of the Backbone Trail. Very worth your effort to go check it out. You want to come back and do it again.
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