• FALL 2025 BACKBONE TRAIL 2024 #3 – Malibu Creek to Newton Canyon

    Backbone Trail Access at Kanan Backbone Trail, Malibu, CA, US

    Our third Falll 2025 Backbone Trail outing in the Santa Monica Mountains will be an 11 mile, 3000 gain outing from the Backbone Trail at Malibu Creek Trailhead to the Newton Canyon Trailhead. The BBT will take us through Newton, Corral, and Latigo Canyons. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a good attitude. Rain, excessive heat, […]

  • Christmas Eve Morning Special Newton Canyon Eastbound to Castro Crest

    Backbone Trail Access at Kanan Backbone Trail, Malibu, CA, US

    I can't find a fancy description so deal with it.... and wanted to post so I wouldnt lose my nerve…. - about 7 miles - about 1600 ascent We will start at Newton Canyon trailhead on Kanan-Dume Rd. and head over the road and up the hill. Down, and up, and then back again. Out […]

  • Newton Canyon – Gentler Friendly Hike

    Backbone Trail Access at Kanan Backbone Trail, Malibu, CA, US

    From the Kanan Rd trailhead, we'll jump on the Backbone Trail for a cruise down into Newton Canyon. On our way there, we'll cross the creek, pass under an oak canopy, and come out into an opening. At the opening, look toward the sandstone formations in the distance, and you'll see the now-maybe-flowing Upper Newton […]

  • Newton Canyon – Gentler Friendly Hike

    Backbone Trail Access at Kanan Backbone Trail, Malibu, CA, US

    From the Kanan Rd trailhead, we'll jump on the Backbone Trail for a cruise down into Newton Canyon. On our way there, we'll cross the creek, pass under an oak canopy, and come out into an opening. At the opening, look toward the sandstone formations in the distance, and you'll see the now-maybe-flowing Upper Newton […]

  • Newton Canyon Eastbound to Castro Crest

    Backbone Trail Access at Kanan Backbone Trail, Malibu, CA, US

    I can't find a fancy description so deal with it.... - about 7 miles - about 1600 ascent We will start at Newton Canyon trailhead on Kanan-Dume Rd. and head over the road and up the hill. Down, and up, and then back again. Out and back, please plan to complete the whole distance unless […]

  • Newton Canyon – Gentler Friendly Hike

    Backbone Trail Access at Kanan Backbone Trail, Malibu, CA, US

    From the Kanan Rd trailhead, we'll jump on the Backbone Trail for a cruise down into Newton Canyon. On our way there, we'll cross the creek, pass under an oak canopy, and come out into an opening. At the opening, look toward the sandstone formations in the distance, and you'll see the now-maybe-flowing Upper Newton […]

  • Upper Zuma Falls via Backbone and Zuma Canyon Trail

    Backbone Trail Access at Kanan Backbone Trail, Malibu, CA, US

    https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/upper-zuma-falls-via-backbone-and-zuma-canyon-trail Hello Fellow Hikers, This is a really pretty area so it can get crowded best to do this one during the weekdays to stay away from the crowds. This isn't to hard of a trail and great for most levels. With that said there is elevation so you will have some gradual incline. A […]

 

Trail statistics are approximate. For safety purposes always assume they are underestimated. But don’t be disappointed if they are overestimated. Bring more water and snacks than you think you’ll need.

Trail descriptions are based on previous hikes. Current conditions are unknown until arrival. Expect the unexpected and plan accordingly.

The Organizers and members of Hiking With Dean are not professional leaders, guides, or mountaineers. The function of the member or organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who shows up for a trip/meetup (and their guest or guests) is responsible for his or her own safety. By attending a hike, or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging that you and any guests that you bring are aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with the activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge the Organizers, Members of the Hiking With Dean Meetup Group from and against any and all liability arising from your participation in the group activities per our ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND LIABILITY WAIVER and Section 6.2 of the Meetup.com Terms of Service.