![]() ![]() Those who parked back on Old Topanga Canyon Road must now hike back down the Hondo Canyon Trail for a 7.6-mile hike (or a 10.6-mile hike with one of the extensions). Both extensions are highly recommended, and add sweeping views to the secluded hike up Hondo Canyon. Just across the pavement, the Backbone Trail continues, reaching Saddle Peak after one mile. Cross the pavement and trot up the opposing ridge to gain a slightly better perspective down on the big blue.Įxtending the hike: From the top of Hondo Canyon Trail, a section of the Backbone Trail labeled “Fossil Ridge Trail” continues west above the road for 0.6 miles, connecting to Lois Ewen Overlook at the base of the trail Topanga Lookout (the Lookout is 0.9 miles from the junction). The trail finally reaches Saddle Peak Road, where one one gets a view down the other side of the ridge at the ocean below. The top of the ridge is never out of sight for long, but it takes an awful lot of switchbacks to achieve. In the spring, flower seekers will find intermittent purple nightshade and tree poppies along the trail. The trail switches through a dense forest made up largely of California bays (and a patch or two of poison oak). From there, the track climbs the east bank of the canyon, staying high above the small creek below. The trail remains easy to follow as it approaches Hondo Canyon, crossing a rocky perch with a nice view up and down the canyon. Deer are often visible in this area which offers an excellent perspective over Topanga and the surroundings. On the other side, follow the trail to the right as it climbs up fields of green grasses. A sign is posted that reads, “Backbone Trail.” Immediately, the trail crosses over a shallow creek where some rock hopping is required. Start down the single track leading from the southwest side of the road. Look for the Botts’ dots built into the road, which slow traffic through this area of ample roadside parking. To be eligible for the hike lottery you must submit an Application.The bottom of the trail is located along Old Topanga Canyon Road 0.4 miles west of Topanga Canyon Blvd. Questions should be emailed to: link below contains the Backbone Trail Application for the annual National Park Service led Backbone Trail hike. Groups of more than 2 hikers should be prepared to hike if their application is selected, but the rest of the group's aren't. Families use multiple forms listing each minor as Hiker #2 and responsible party as #1. Applicant’s name may only appear on one application (except for families). Using this Application Form you can sign up for yourself and one other adult, or a minor child. ![]() A randomized lottery will be conducted and results will be communicated the first week of November. ![]() HOW Applications will be accepted annually from October 25th through 31st. There is always an eager and hopeful waiting list. PLEASE CONSIDER POSTPONING your application until a future year if you are unable to calendar the dates for Orientation and 10 hikes (January thru May). If an 8.5 mile hike with 3,200’ of elevation gain/loss on uneven footing while exposed to the elements is outside of your comfort zone, or the idea of numerous breaks for trail discussions isn’t your cup of tea this may not be the hike for you. Injury free hikers in average to good physical condition of any age are welcome. The 20 or so at the top of the waiting list stand a good chance of being activated before the hike begins in January. The first 40 applications selected are considered active hikers. Attendance is required at a Hiker Orientation the morning of the 1st Saturday in December followed by an optional volunteer led hike in the afternoon. All hikes stage at 8AM and last no more than 7 hours before returning to your car. Additionally, allow for 2 hikes on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays in May in case we have to postpone hikes for whatever reason. The hike’s 8 segments occur on the 2nd and 4th Saturday (not every other Saturday) of each month beginning in January. The only fee is when using several California State Parks parking lots. Significant vehicle shuttling is involved to avoid “in and back” hikes. The hike is led by experienced National Park Service volunteers who stop frequently to discuss the area’s unique fauna, flora, geology, natural history and cultural history. The trail stretches 67 miles and enjoys a variety of terrain. ![]() The BBT Program consists of 8 day-long hikes with averages of 8.5 miles and 3,200 feet of elevation gain and loss. The Backbone Trail (BBT) is moderately difficult. Due to COVID-19, this hike is postponed indefinitely. ![]()
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