Sandstone Peak, Inspiration Point, and Balancing Rock

We hiked up to Sandstone Peak and completed the loop over to Inspiration Point and beyond to balancing rock. Sandstone Peak is the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountain and is on the Back Bone Trail! That you can also go over to Inspiration Point, and then the most improbable feature in nature, Balancing Rock. It is a 7.5 mile trek with 1300 feet of elevation gain. If you find yourself in Los Angeles this hike is a must!

The parking lot is right off of Yerba Buena Rd and quite large.The trail leaves to the north end of the parking lot and starts out with a steep grade and never gives it up.

From the trail up to Sand Stone Peak, don't forget to look to your right off of the trail to spot balancing rock just above the cliffs.

There she is!

Up the rock trail to get to the top.

Still scrambling to get to the top.

Marv sitting on Mr. Allen.

Don't forget to climb over to the shorter peak to the east and get your picture taken.

I had to......

The view of the ocean from the top is spectacular!

To the east you can see Lake Sherwood and beyond the San Fernando Valley.

What's in there?

A book to log your visit.

Thanks Marv for signing us in.

Taking the lead over to Inspiration Point.

Our first glimpse of Balance Rock coming around the loop trail.

How crazy is this rock, and how did it get there?

Once there was a little old ant!

Hold on Marv, i'll be right there!

As always, our plan for the day.