About This Event
We will begin by hiking northwest on the Upper Zuma Canyon segment of the Backbone Trail. Our first stop will be Newton Canyon Falls, a beautiful waterfall in a lush, forested grotto with moss-covered rocks (see picture on right). There are large, shaded boulders to sit on near the falls by cascading Newton Creek. Beginners can return to car at this point (or, if in the mood for more adventure, continue with group)
Newton Falls is just the appetizer. Our main course will be Upper Zuma Falls. While on the main trail it can be seen from the distance. However, not too long ago, we did an exploratory hike and found a path to the base of the falls. Although we will be hiking off-trail to get to the falls, the way is relatively clear of obstacles and mostly level
https://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/7/2/4/event_13019172.jpeg Here is a shot of Upper Zuma Falls from the Backbone Trail
https://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/c/4/b/600_13016395.jpeg Its form becomes more obvious with a zoom lens
https://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/4/c/f/highres_20553999.jpeg And here it is up close. You don't want to miss this one!
After visiting the falls, we'll return to the trail and continue to Zuma-Trancas Ridge, turn north, and search for a trail to the top of the falls
Length of hike will be 6-8 miles with moderate elevation gain
Bring the usual stuff, but most importantly, bring a sense of adventure!
Directions
From the Ventura Freeway 101, go south (toward beaches) on Kanan Road about 7.8 miles to just before the "third tunnel" (T1). The parking lot is on the right (west side of what is now Kanan-Dume Road) and easy to spot.
From Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, go north on Kanan Dume Road about 4.3 miles, just through the first tunnel, T1, and make a left turn into the parking lot on the west side of Kanan Dume.
