Guide to the best mountain
bike trails near Malibu Creek State Park
including the Backbone Trail
The trail map below is a jpeg of the actual maps from our books and map-sets.
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Description:
Malibu Creek State Park lies in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains and encompasses a full range of Southern California terrain. Situated near the intersection of Mulholland Highway and Malibu Canyon Road, the park headquarters region is largely rolling, semi-open oak woodlands offering beginners to mountain biking great opportunities to learn.
However, once you start climbing to Castro Crest on the Bulldog Motorway, you'll understand that Malibu Creek isn't just for beginners. The Bulldog loop is a classic, featuring relentless climbs, stellar views and screaming downhills. For those craving fun technical single-track, a multi-use segment of the Backbone Trail runs just to the ocean side of Castro Crest and offers miles of uninterrupted single-track with lots of challenges.
Kudos to CORBA, the local mountain bike trail access organization, for their hard work in opening and maintaining jewels such as this for all mountain bikers to enjoy.
Discover the Best Mountain Biking in LA's Santa Monica Mountains Our 2-sided mountain biking maps include Malibu Creek State Park, Point Mugu State Park, Topanga State Park, Cheeseboro Canyon area and the Zuma area
Malibu Creek State Park Area Summary Location: Malibu/Calabasas Best For: Advanced riders Suitable For: All levels Ground Cover: Brush-covered hillsides and riparian woodlands. Seasons: Good year round.
Directions to trailhead(s):
Malibu Creek State Park is located just west of the intersection of Mulholland Highway and Malibu Canyon Road near Calabasas. The Backbone Trail can be accessed from Kanan Road, 4 miles north from PCH (Hwy. 1), just past the first tunnel. There is additional access to the Backbone Trail from the top of Corral Canyon Road, 5 miles north from PCH.
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