Discover great mountain bike trails in the Zuma region of the Santa Monicas
Zuma-Backbone Trail Area Summary Location: Malibu Best For: Strong intermediate riders Suitable For: All levels Ground Cover: Brush-covered hillsides and riparian woodlands Seasons: Good year round.
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
Description:
If you're looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of L.A. and leave crowded trails behind even on weekends, the Zuma Canyon area might be just the ticket. Encompassing open space between Kanan Dume and Decker roads, this region seems to get the smallest crowds of all the Santa Monica Mountains destinations.
The terrain here is typical SoCal, with chaparral predominating, interspersed with smaller areas of riparian woodlands and open grasslands. The riding generally consists of steep fire roads, though a beautiful segment of the Backbone Trail as well as the beginner- oriented Charmlee Park add variety.
Strong intermediate and advanced riders will love the Zuma-Backbone loop - moderately technical single-track interspersed with grinding fire road uphills and fast descents. Beginners should head to Charmlee Park off Encinal Canyon Road, which offers an array of easy fire roads through beautiful meadows.
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Directions to trailhead(s):
The trailhead for ride #1 is located in a paved parking area four miles north of Pacific Coast Highway on the west side of Kanan Dume Road (immediately north of the southernmost tunnel). The ride #2 trailhead is located at the end of Busch Drive. From PCH heading west, Busch Drive is a right-hand turn one mile beyond Kanan Dume Road. Head uphill for one mile.