Overview
Highest Point in the Santa Monica Mountains. Apparently known as Mt. Allen to the Boy Scouts. Modertly difficult hike covering 5.8 mi and 1,400 ft elevation gain. The trail covers volcanic rock and lush vegetation, sepecially in spring where you can see a variety of wildflowers.
Backbone Trail to Sandstone Peak is about 3 miles round trip, and fairly strenuous—Starting at the Sand-stone Peak Trailhead at an elevation of 2,030 feet, this trail provides views of the Conejo and San Fernando Valleys, as well as the Pacific Coast. Note: The Backbone Trail continues west to Sycamore Canyon and other trails in Point Mugu State Park.
Getting There
From L.A.:
Take PCH to Yerba Buena Road. Follow this road for about 5.5 miles or until you are about 1 mile East of Circle X Ranch in Malibu. Park at the turnoff near Triunfo Pass.
OR
From Westlake Village take Westlake Blvd off of the 101 Freeway. Follow it south for until it merges with Mulholland highway. Turn right onto Little Sycamore Canyon and it will become Yerba Buena Road as you cross the county line. Proceed on Yerba Buena Road for about 4 miles to trailhead or about 1 mile before the Circle X Ranch Ranger Station
Red Tape
No permits required for this hike.
Use USGS 7.5 min. Triunfo Pass, Newbury Park map.
When To Climb
October through June is best. Great views of the Pacific Ocean and even the Channel Islands on a clear day. Summer tends to be quite hot despite the proximity to the Pacific Ocean.
Camping
http://www.nps.gov/samo/maps/cx.htm
A group campground is available (reservations required (805)-370-2300 x 1702, limit 75 persons). A Ranch House which includes a meeting room for 75 people with a kitchen, fireplace and lounge is available through reservation. No overnight accomodations. Call (805)-370-1854.
Mountain Conditions
Official Site:
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
401 West Hillcrest Drive
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Visitor Center:(805) 370-2301
http://www.nps.gov/samo/
External LinksImages
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Santa Monica Mountains
