Annual hike of Backbone Trail is scheduled

The Santa Monica Mountains Trails Council and Coastwalk have announced plans for this year's annual Backbone Trail Trek.

The council and Coastwalk are sponsoring the event to bring attention to the Backbone Trail, which runs the length of the Santa Monica Mountains and the California Coastal Trail.

The Backbone Trail Trek is a seven-day hike planned to begin May 3 in Point Mugu State Park and end May 10 in Will Rogers State Historical Park. The hike is about 67 miles with an average daily distance of 10 miles. Hikers carry only a daypack and camp overnight in campgrounds along the trail. A support team of volunteers will transport camping equipment between campgrounds and prepare meals.

Participation is open to the public, but the number of hikers is limited to 25. Registration began in mid-January and will continue until early April. There will be a fee to cover expenses for campgrounds, transportation of equipment, insurance and food.

For details, send an e-mail to Jerry Mitcham at backbonetrek2008@ roadrunner.com.