Castro Crest is located 1.4 miles from Latigo Canyon Road up a pleasant section of the Backbone Trail. The crest offers excellent views over Malibu’s Santa Monica Mountains, with the option to continue another half-mile up Castro Peak. The summit may not be reached however, as it is privately owned and extremely closed to the public.
Another popular extension is to continue on the Backbone Trail for another 2.75 miles across Upper Solstice Canyon to Corral Canyon Fire Road. The section of the Backbone Trail between Latigo Canyon and Castro Crest crosses a lush canyon and climbs to panoramic views over the range. The hike to the gate near the top of Castro Peak is 3.8 miles out and back with 650 feet of elevation between the low and high points of the trail.
To get to the trailhead: From PCH in Malibu, drive 7.3 miles inland on Latigo Canyon Road. After passing Upper Ramirez Motorway, turn right into the dirt pullout at the trailhead. The parking area is unmarked, so watch your odometer. From the 101 Freeway in Lost Hills, take Kanan Dune Road south for 6.8 mile. Turn left, heading east on Latigo Canyon Road and drive three miles to the trailhead.
Dogs must be on leash.