FATMAP by Strava

Traverse of Santa Monica Mountains: the Backbone Trail

Santa Monica Mountains

A complete traverse of the Santa Monica Mountains outside of Los Angeles along the Backbone Trail with terminuses at Will Rogers State Park and Ray Miller Trailhead

Trail Running Difficult

Distance
106 km
Ascent
3.8 km
Descent
4 km
Duration
1 day +
Low Point
14 m
High Point
909 m
Gradient
Traverse of Santa Monica Mountains: the Backbone Trail Map

This is a complete traverse of the Santa Monica Mountains on a single trail, the Backbone Trail. Therefore, the route is rad!

Description

It is one of my favourite runs that I have done in the US, hands down. You get views of the mountains and the Pacific Ocean along much of the course. And, the vegetation, smells, and sounds are distinctively SoCal!

The route is fairly straightforward. It follows the same trail throughout the entire route. That said, there are many trails that intertwine along the Santa Monicas so having a good study of the route beforehand, and reviewing at junctions could be of benefit!

It is a point-to-point route so having someone pick you up at the other end would be great!

Difficulty

Difficult

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

all year round

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area