Sandstone Peak, Tri Peaks and Balance Rock

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/6/a/2/event_213758562.jpeg

Length: 7-9 miles
Elevation Gain: 1700ft
Dogs: On Leash
Bathroom at Trailhead: Yes
Difficulty: Moderate
Sunset: 8:08pm
What to Bring: Water, Snacks, Flashlight and Sweater/Jacket if you get cold easy.

Sandstone Peak, officially Mount Allen, is a mountain in Ventura County, California, and the highest summit in the Santa Monica Mountains with an elevation of 3,111 feet (948.2 m). Located near the western edge of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, the summit provides breathtaking views of Malibu, The Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica, the Conejo Valley, and four of the Channel Islands. The Sandstone Peak Trail, which leads to the top, connects to a vast trail system in the area, including the Backbone Trail. The mountain is highly popular with climbers, hikers, and photographers. Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandstone_Peak)

Disclosure:
I have hiked the backbone trail in this area before, but not this route. I did however find a map, so let's go. A more interactive map is found on the link below:
http://www.everytrail.com/guide/sandstone-peak/map# (http://www.everytrail.com/guide/sandstone-peak/map)

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A6vPiyQpj4w/TEE1sB425bI/AAAAAAAAACw/4K3uKXFFKEs/s1600/CircleX8-08+cropped.jpg

DirectionsFrom PCH: The trail head is 1 mile east of the Circle X Ranch, which is located 5 ½ miles from Pacific Coast Highway on Yerba Buena Road in Malibu.

From Westlake Village: Exit on Westlake Blvd from the 101 Freeway, and follow it south for several miles as 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 (about a mile before you hit the Circle X Ranch Ranger Station).

Parking
There are a few parking lots in this area. We are planning to meet at the parking lot with the bathroom (marked Sandstone Peak Trailhead on the above map). If this lot is full, you can park in the overflow (Mishe Mokwa lot), but there is a walk to get to the bathroom lot. We will do the loop in a counter clockwise fashion.

Rain will postpone this hike.

Pending Hike Requests:

• Eagle Rock (Topanga State Park)
• Paramount Ranch
• Eaton Canyon
  Disclaimer / Release of Liability:
  You must RSVP to attend this event, no exceptions. Hiking and other outdoor events are inherently dangerous and accidents can happen. By participating in any posted event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. This Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. You are responsible for you. If you choose to sign up for any events, you are releasing the Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgement and experience. This applies to any guests you may invite.