The Backbone Trail, now designated as a National Recreation Trail, traverses the length of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. It follows ridges and canyons crossing chaparral-covered hillsides, oak woodlands, creeks and valleys. The daily hikes are rated moderate to strenuous difficulty and average about 10 miles per day, with daily elevation changes ranging from 500 to 3,000 feet. Hikers carry only a daypack with lunch, water and personal items. While this hike is much less strenuous than a backpack trip, it is not for the casual hiker. Keep in mind, each day's hike is rated moderate to strenuous and a 10 mile hike every day may have a cumulative effect on one's physical condition, increasing the difficulty as the hike progresses day to day.
Volunteers truck the hiker's camping equipment between campgrounds and when necessary, a van shuttle is provided to and from the trailhead. Upon arriving at the night's campground, usually around 3:00 PM, participants may relax while being treated to light snacks and cool drinks. While accommodations at the campgrounds vary, all have potable water, toilets, picnic tables and some have shower facilities. Hot meals prepared by volunteers are served every evening. In the mornings, hikers prepare their own breakfast, lunch and trail snacks from an assortment of provided "fixings".
The BBT begins at La Jolla Canyon in Point Mugu State Park. The first day of the event, hikers will meet in the afternoon at the La Jolla Group Campground in Point Mugu State Park. After unloading individual equipment and shuttling private vehicles to a secure parking area, hikers have an opportunity to meet the other hikers and the event's volunteers, share a light dinner and receive an event orientation. The BBT culminates at Will Rogers State Historic Park. A light lunch and cool drinks are provided while all participants share their experiences and say good-byes. After lunch, participants are shuttled back to the vehicle parking area to pick up personal camping gear and private autos.
The fee for this event is $435.00 - covers all expenses and includes a one year membership in the Santa Monica Mountains Trails Council. Registration opens on February 1, 2020 and closes on April 8, 2020. Come join us for a great week in the local mountains!
La Jolla Canyon Backbone Trail, trailhead to Danielson Ranch Group Camp - Moderate: 8.2 miles, 1,330 foot climb
Backbone Trail Odometer Readings
[Begin:0][Miles:8.2][Cumulative:8.2][Gain:1200]
Danielson Ranch Group Camp to Triunfo Peak Trailhead - Difficult: 8.4 miles, 3,060 foot climb with the option of including an additional 4.6 mile section of the Backbone Trail for a total of 13.2 miles
Backbone Trail Odometer Readings
[Begin:8.2][Miles:13.2][Gain:3700][Cumulative:21.4,4900']
Backbone Trail Odometer Readings
[Begin:21.4][Miles:12.7][Cumulative:34.1]
Latigo Canyon Trailhead to Malibu Canyon Road Trailhead - Difficult: 9.8 mi., 1,120 ft. climb
Backbone Trail Odometer Readings
[Begin:34.1][Miles:9.8][Cumulative:43.9]
Malibu Creek State Park Campground to Saddle Peak Trailhead - Difficult: 7.1 mi., 2,500 ft. climb
Backbone Trail Odometer Readings
[Begin:43.9][Miles:7.1][Cumulative:51.0]
Saddle Peak Trailhead to Musch Camp - Moderate: 7.6 miles, mostly downhill but includes a 970 foot climb
Backbone Trail Odometer Readings
[Begin:51.0][Miles:7.6][Cumulative:58.6]
Musch Camp to Will Rogers Historic Park - Difficult: 9.6 miles, 1,360 foot climb
Backbone Trail Odometer Readings
[Begin:58.6][Miles:9.6][Cumulative:68.2]
The Backbone Trek, organized and run by volunteers is a week-long journey into the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains. Jerry, Dave, Diane, Barry, John, Barb, and Carlyn have teamed together to share their enthusiasm because of the idea that the Backbone Trail represents: a sixty-seven-mile walk that immerses one into a surprising and diverse natural environment. Our association with the Backbone Trail began nearly fifty years ago. Envisioning the Backbone Trail, funding construction of several segments, to continually maintaining the trail. The trek is one more way to share our passion for this trail with the public.
Frequently Asked Questions - Submit your Backbone Trek questions to Jerry Mitcham at (818) 406-1269 or backbonetrek@yahoo.com.
What are the toilet facilities like?
Each night we will be camping at an established campground with toilet facilities. There will be periodic "split breaks" on the trail during the day.
Cell Phone Coverage?
There is usually poor cell phone coverage in the campgrounds. However, during the days we will be hiking over and along high ridges, which usually permit cell phone service.
During the trek, will we be reachable in the event of an emergency?
Prior to the trek, you will be provided with an emergency number which friends or family may use to get in touch in case of an emergency.
Will special dietary needs be accommodated?
Special dietary needs may be accommodated if the staff is notified in advance. Send your requirements to the BBTrek coordinator at backbonetrek@yahoo.com.
I am a slow hiker. How fast is the pace?
We usually maintain a pace of about 2 miles per hour. However, we accommodate hikers of all abilities. There will be plenty of time to enjoy the views, take pictures, etc. Each day's hike is classified as moderate or difficult. However, keep in mind a 10-mile hike every day, with elevation changes, may have a cumulative effect on one's physical condition, increasing the difficulty as the hike progresses day to day.
I am curious about where the camping sites are located. I'm not aware of enough campgrounds spaced at the necessary distances for the hike.
Three of the campgrounds are on or near the trail: La Jolla Group Campground, Danielson Group Campground and Musch Camp. Circle X Group Camp and Malibu Creek Group Camp are not on the trail and for those days a shuttle will be utilized. Campgrounds for each night of the trek are listed in the Itinerary
Will there be time on the hikes to do some geocaching?
Yes. We will maintain a pace to allow everyone time to enjoy the views, take pictures, geocache, etc.
Do you anticipate there will be many wildflowers to see?
We typically see 140 to 150 blooming species during the hike. Even in low rainfall years we manage to see many different flowers. If you need a reference for wildflowers in the Santa Monica Mountains, we recommend Wildflowers of the Santa Monica Mountains, by Milt McAuley, second edition, 1996.
Will we be exposed to Poison Oak on the Backbone Trail?
Yes. We can expect to encounter Poison Oak on many sections of the trail. All hikers should be sure to bring protective clothing such as long pants and long sleeve shirts. If you are one of those folks who have a reaction to the plant, you should consider bringing a treatment such as "Tecnu®").
Will there be facilities to recharge the batteries in our cell phone and camera?
Yes. Some of the campgrounds have electric outlets. We will also have a portable charging station available for the other sites. Be sure to bring your adapter for AC or auto outlets.
Will we have to pump water?
No. There is potable water in all the campgrounds. You will have carry your full day's supply each day on the trail.
The more stuff you leave behind, the more enjoyable your experience? Of course, be sure to bring the essentials! Temperatures typically range from a minimum of 48 to a maximum of 103 degrees. Here's a basic list to help you pack for the Backbone Trek.
Equipment: Sleeping bag, pad and ground cloth, tarp or tent to protect against insects. A pillow may make your sleeping more comfortable.
Clothing: Rain would be unusual, but coastal fog is likely, so a rain resistant windbreaker with layers should be the best combination. Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes and good hiking socks for the trail; comfortable shoes to wear in camp; and a hat are musts. It is likely that it will be sunny and hot at least some of the time. Shorts would be OK on most days.
Eating Utensils: Bring your own cup, plate, bowl and eating utensils; plastic container to carry your sandwich and for leftovers; cloth napkin and dish towel.
Personal Items: Bring a towel, soap, shampoo, comb, hairbrush, chap-stick, sunscreen and dental care items. For two days we will be without showers, so you might want to bring a solar shower if a daily shower is important to you.
Basic First Aid: Bring first aid supplies such as bandages, insect repellent, aspirin, moleskin for blister protection and your own special needs. Bring any prescription medications you require.
Trail Items: Bring a daypack, 3 liters of water (water bottles or hydration bladder) and sunglasses. Camera, notebook and pen, and binoculars (optional).
Chairs: I recommend one of those lightweight camp seats that fold up into a small cylindrical stuff sack. The stores call them sling chairs or hammock chairs.
Other Stuff: A flashlight and extra batteries are essential. You’ll want some money for extras (we will be making shopping runs during the week.)
The bottom line: We will have a large truck to haul your equipment, so you don't have to be too weight conscious. However, you will have to pack/unpack and load/unload your own equipment each day, so don't bring the kitchen sink.
