NOTE CHANGE OF TIME:
Due to the current heat wave, and based on your responses, I've decided to move the meeting time one hour earlier to 8 AM. Let's also get ready faster and start the ride at 8:15 SHARP. This way we should be able to reach the other end of the ride overlooking Topanga State Park by 10:30 or so. From there it will be an easier ride back with more downhill than uphill.

I hope this change won't cause any of you not to be able to attend.

This is truly a trail that experienced cross country riders love and one of my personal favorites. Organizing a ride here has been on my agenda for a while. The ride is almost all single track and covered by forest much of the time. In other words, there is plenty of shade for the most part. However this is a challenging ride only suitable for well conditioned experienced riders.

Map:
I have provided a link to a map of the area below. We will be following the blue dotted line at the top of the map indicating the Backbone trail.

Click here to see a printable .pdf map of the area.

The Plan:
Looking at the map, we will park at trail head/parking a) at Encinal Canyon Road and head east along the trail sections (2) and (1) to the end at trail head/parking g). Here we'll take a well deserved lunch break and have some snacks while enjoying the view before heading back the same way we came.

We will meet at the trail head at 8 AM and start riding at 8:15 AM SHARP.

Distance:
About 22 mi round trip, almost 100% single track.

Time Required:
I expect about 4-5 hours or so riding time (including a short lunch break).

Difficulty:
Most of this ride is intermediate level with a few advanced spots. However, this is a long ride with a significant amount of climbing, including a couple of very steep technical climbs which will be quite challenging for most intermediate level riders. You also need to be very well conditioned for this ride if you plan on making it all the way to the other end and back. If you are unsure if this is an appropriate ride for you, please feel free to contact me (Stein).

Note: This is absolutely not a beginner ride, and if you sign up for this ride to in order to "challenge yourself", be prepared to ride on your own if you cannot keep up with the group. You have been warned. Generally I don't recommend riding alone if you are inexperienced so I suggest bringing a friend in this case.

Video:
Here is a video clip of part of the ride to give you an idea:

Video clip showing segments of the ride east of Kanan Dume.

Directions:
From Santa Monica: Take PCH north/west for for about 25 mi and turn right on Encinal Canyon Rd. Head up about 6 mi and park just past Rattle Snake Rd. on your right.

From the valley: Head west/north on the 101 and exit on Kanan Rd. Head South on Kanan Dume Rd for 6 mi and turn right on Mulholland Hwy. Continue on to Encinal Canyon Rd for 2.5 mi and park just before Rattle Snake Rd on your left.

Click here for Google Directions.

Note:
As this trail is very popular with hikers, we need to be courteous and careful not to startle them coming around turns etc. This is a treasure in terms of riding we cannot afford to lose.

IMPORTANT:
Mountain biking is an inherently risky sport, especially for those who tend to take chances (video). You can get hurt. As event organizers we assume absolutely no responsibility for you or your equipment. We are simply mountain biking "buddies", nothing more. If you choose to participate you assume all risk involved. Also, please adhere to the following:

• Always wear a helmet when mountain biking. This is mandatory, no exceptions.
  
• Make sure your bike is in good working condition, with the tires properly inflated and the chain lubricated prior to the ride.
  
• Protective pads, gloves etc are recommended on more technical rides.
  
• Know your limitations, and do not attempt what you are not comfortable with. Hike-a-bike is no shame.
  
• Bring at least one spare tube, sunscreen, energy bars/food and enough water. Hydration packs are encouraged.
  
• If you have two-way radios, toolkit, pump/co2, or first aid kit, bring them.
  
• Be familiar with and follow trail rules and etiquettes.