Trail Overview
The Ray Miller Trail climbs the coastal slopes of Point Mugu State Park. This guide follows the trail from La Jolla Canyon to its ridge junction with Overlook Fire Road, then returns the same way.
The park can restrict access during Red Flag Warnings. Check California State Parks notices before traveling; this independent guide does not provide live opening status.
- Route
- Out and back to Overlook Fire Road
- Distance
- About 6 miles round trip
- Landscape
- Coastal sage scrub and ocean views
- Dogs
- Not allowed on trails
The Hike
Find the Ray Miller trailhead
Start at the signed Ray Miller Trail in the La Jolla Canyon day-use area off Pacific Coast Highway.
Follow the hillside trail
Climb steadily on the winding trail above the coast. The National Park Service describes ocean views and, in clear weather, views toward the Channel Islands and Boney Ridge.
Turn back at the ridge junction
The ridge and Overlook Fire Road are reached just under three miles from the start in the NPS route description. Return along Ray Miller Trail; continuing along the fire road makes a different, longer outing.
Getting Here & Parking
Use the La Jolla Canyon day-use access for Ray Miller Trail. NPS places this trailhead 1.6 miles west of Sycamore Canyon Campground along Pacific Coast Highway.
Follow posted parking hours and fee instructions. Check the State Parks page for current charges and access notices before leaving.
Google Maps Reviews
4.8 / 5 · 181 reviews, checked 2026-10-14.
A Few Common Questions
Is this the full Backbone Trail?
No. Ray Miller is its western starting section. This guide turns around at Overlook Fire Road rather than continuing inland.
Can I bring a dog?
California State Parks does not allow dogs on Point Mugu trails.
Does this route go through La Jolla Canyon?
It starts at the La Jolla Canyon day-use area but follows Ray Miller Trail up the coastal hillside. Do not substitute a canyon-loop itinerary for this out-and-back.
Is parking free?
Check current State Parks fees and posted signs. This guide does not quote a fixed price or recommend highway-shoulder parking.
Trail Information Sources
- National Park Service: Backbone Trail segment 1 route description
- National Park Service: Point Mugu trailhead information
- California State Parks: Point Mugu notices, hours and rules
Independent trail guide. Check the land manager’s current notices before visiting.