The Backbone Trail is a long stretch of double track that runs all the way from Will Rogers to Pt. Mugu, a total of 68 miles. It isn't the most exciting trail, and is often crowded, but you can use sections of it to connect to other trails and great stretches of single track.
1 On a crowded weekend afternoon on the Backbone Trail, the best bet is to get onto one of the unmarked single track trails running roughly parrallel to the Backbone. On this day, I didn't see a single person on the single track while Backbone was packed!
2 The single track can get overgrown in places but is always followable.
3 Looking down at the Backbone Trail from the single track running parrallel along the ridge above the main trail.
4 The Backbone Trail is mostly wide single/double track. It's primarily exposed chapparel but has some nice tree cover in places.
5 The trail gets narrower and greener in spots.
6 Switbacks on the 0.4 mile trail heading from the Backbone Trail down into Rustic Canyon. It's a 700' 0.4 miles!
7 Looking down Rivas Canyon from the Backbone Trail.
8 A good look at the steep hills along the ridge with Downtown LA in the distance.
9 Ocean view from the Backbone.
10 The trail bridge leading up to a prominent peak near Will Rogers State Historic Park.
11 The peak high above Will Rogers and Inspiration Point.
12 The Backbone Trail continuing on into Topanga State park along the South ridge of Rustic Canyon.
13 Ocean view from the peak.
14 Looking down at the trail bridge and out towards the ocean.