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.
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.

