Today we’ll hike the Backbone Trail dreaming of the impending wildflowers. We’ll begin at Latigo Canyon and walk on dirt and stuff and strive to reach the familiar sandstone structures of Mesa Peak Motorway. Along the way, we’ll cross Castro Crest and descend into Upper Solstice Canyon before we climb toward Mesa Peak Motorway, at the top of Corral Canyon. There are LOTS OF WATER CROSSINGS!! Bring poles and waterproof boots.
We’re starting high, dipping down, then rising again from Latigo to Castro Crest for broad views of mountains and canyons. The descent from Castro Crest is the standard chaparral-blanketed fare we’re accustomed to in this area, and it happens to be BEAUTIFUL right now. Once on the floor of Upper Solstice, we’ll “ford” seasonal streams and check for the charred remnants of the previous cover. The climb up to Castro Peak Motorway becomes increasingly rocky, so poles may prove to be useful.
We will return the way we came.
Total total distance is 8.4 miles, with 1650’ of elevation gain.
Please review the guidelines to participate in our hikes. Here are some highlights.
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:
Don’t show up unless you’re on the “Attending” list.
No “Plus Ones” on this hike.
Plan on sticking with the group, and completing the entire hike at a reasonable pace and letting the hike leader know if you turn around early. She may also. Please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level if you have not hiked at this level before.
No dogs please.
Bring ample hydration.
Directions:
From the 101, take Kanan Dune Road south for 6.8 miles. Turn left, heading east on Latigo Canyon Road, and drive three miles to the unmarked dirt lot on the left. Use your odometer to gauge the distance.
From PCH, drive 7.3 miles inland on Latigo Canyon Road. After passing Upper Ramirez Motorway, turn right into the dirt pullout at the trailhead. The parking area is unmarked, so watch your odometer.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
The hike hosts are volunteers and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group, its organizers, and sponsors from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. You agree that you can navigate back to your transportation by yourself, and agree to do so if you fall behind and lose track of the main body of hikers.
There are no “Plus One’s” on this hike. If you want to bring someone along, have them sign up, and make sure they’re aware of, and agree to, this disclaimer.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
