This is also a gentler hike for Thursday starting at Newton Canyon, another group is starting at 8:30 and going down the backbone trail. We will go up and cross over Kanan and hike to Latigo. This hike was a bit overgrown last time but I am hoping they have come and trimmed it back, but you might want to wear long pants. This hike is only 5 miles and will take us on a less-traveled but quite beautiful part of the 67-mile Backbone Trail, which runs through the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area from Will Rogers State Park in the east to Point Mugu in the west.
The route begins at Kanan Dume Road, there is a bit of a climb at first and then it levels out. They have graded this part of the hike and it is easier now. Then we cross over the southernmost tunnel (Tunnel 1) above Kanan Dume Road. We then proceed easterly roughly 2.2 miles and up 600 feet, gradually winding our way up and through Latigo Canyon, turning around at Latigo Canyon Road, and returning to the cars. Along the hike, you can take a short jog up to the ridgeline for spectacular Pacific Ocean views.
This hike is a combination of single and double-file trails with occasional stretches of loose rock and gravel (you may want to bring trekking poles). The majority of our out and back hike is wooded and shaded canyon trails, offering periodic glimpses of the Pacific. A deep “V” into a shaded cleft, with another 450′ of descent and climb will complete the elevation loss and gain.
The total distance for this hike will be approximately 5 miles with 600 feet of elevation gain. The parking lot will be pretty full, so if you can share a ride, do so.
Directions:
From the 101 – exit at the Kanan Road exit and drive south (toward the ocean) 7.8 miles, going through two of the three tunnels on this road (which changes name to Kanan Dume Road). Turn right into the “Backbone Trail” parking area at Newton Canyon, just before entering the third tunnel.
From PCH – turn up South Kanan Dume Road. Drive 4.4 miles from PCH, going through one tunnel, and then turn left into the “Backbone Trail” parking area, almost immediately after coming out of the tunnel. Free parking is available at the trailhead.
Disclaimer / Release of Liability
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:
The hike host is a volunteer 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 and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. No dogs.
