Sandstone Peak

If you live in Los Angeles, Sandstone Peak is a must!

The hike to the summit can be done on a 2 mile hike up and back on Sandstone Peak Trail, or a 6.5 mile hike up and back on Backbone Trail. The shorter trail is more popular, yet both are equally rewarding. You won't believe the views from the summit!

Centered along Yerba Buena Rd. are the two parking lots for the different trails. The lots are roughly 6 miles from Pacific Crest Highway to the south, or Mulholland Highway to the east. Both are well marked and on the northern side of the road. Even if parking fills in the the lots, there is room along the road for overflow.

Both trails are well marked, and the trails well maintained. For Sandstone Peak, follow the gentle switchbacking trail up the north face of the ridge, enjoying views that wind around looking out into the Santa Clara Valley. The brush stands tall here, and it shades the trail up to the stairs at the summit.

The Backbone Trail is longer, and switch backs up from a smaller parking lot a mile to the east of the Sandstone Peak Trail parking lot. The views are more focused into the sandstone gorge to the north, before climbing up to the clearing where the stairs to the summit are. If you continue past, you will hike into the sister peaks, which offer some quieter places to chill, or areas better suited for bouldering and climbing, away from crowds.

The stairs climb about 50 feet and goat paths split off in the brush toward the ridge. Stick to the left and walk up to the base of the peak boulder. Here there are many routes that all go to the top. The ridge hangs out into space on the east side, so watch the ledge. At the summit there is a marker stating: "Mt. Allen, Highest Peak in the Santa Monicas". Below the plaque is a brass box, containing notepads and pens for you to leave your name, some wisdom, or learn something from a fellow traveler.

From above the marker you have full 360º views of the entire mountain range from Palos Verdes and Catalina Island, to Santa Barbara and Channel Islands National Park. To the north are the Traverse Ranges, Ojai and the Santa Clara Valley. All around are impressive sandstone formations, making this a very unique setting. Sit back on the rock and soak in the views.

On your way back down, head into Malibu and avoid the vineyards to the north. The Sunset has happy hour specials, and the best view of the setting sun over Zuma Beach and the waves. This makes for a perfect end to a very Golden State day.