Kanan Dume to Latigo ~ Gentler Friendly - Not Beginner

We will start on Kanan at Newton Canyon and hike to Latigo Canyon Rd. It is a little steep at the beginning but then turns into a nice hike. This hike is about 6 miles with about 1000’ gain and will take us on a less-traveled but quite beautiful part of the 67-mile Backbone trail.

Please only sign up for one hike.

The route begins at Kanan Dume Road, there is a bit of a climb at first and then it levels out, allowing us to cross over the southernmost tunnel (Tunnel 1) above Kanan Dume Road. We then proceed easterly roughly 3 miles and up 1000 feet gain, gradually winding our way up and through Latigo Canyon, turning around at Latigo Canyon Road, and returning to the cars. Along the hike, you can take a short jog up to the ridgeline for spectacular Pacific Ocean views.

The terrain is a mix of single and double-file trail with occasional stretches of loose rock and gravel (you may want to bring trekking poles). The majority of our out and back hike is wooded and shaded canyon trails, offering periodic glimpses of the Pacific.

NOTE: Please review the guidelines to participate in our hikes. Here are some highlights and a link to the guidelines:

https://www.meetup.com/The-Weekday-Trailblazers/about/
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:
Don't show up unless you're on the "Attending" list
No "Plus Ones" on this hike
Plan on completing the entire hike at an intermediate pace or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
No dogs allowed.

Directions:

From the 101 – exit at the Kanan Road exit and drive south (toward the ocean) 7.8 miles, going through two of the three tunnels on this road (which changes name to Kanan Dume Road). Turn right into the “Backbone Trail” parking area, just before entering the third tunnel.

From PCH – turn up South Kanan Dume Road. Drive 4.4 miles from PCH, going through one tunnel, and then turn left into the “Backbone Trail” parking area, almost immediately after coming out of the tunnel. Free parking is available at the trailhead.

Disclaimer / Release of Liability
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:

The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.

Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers 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.

If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.

All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. No dogs.