Milt McAuley, an avid outdoorsman, expert hiker, and tireless protector of the Santa Monica Mountains, has passed away at the age of 89.
McAuley was the first person to write a hiking guide to the Los Angeles area, and was concerned not only with protecting the trails — but also promoting them to the public. He was one of the people who plotted out the route for the Backbone Trail, and often led hikes through its undeveloped areas to help sell the idea.
The LA Times has an excellent obituary posted. If you can, try to get out and hike a part of the Backbone Trail to thank Milt for all his hard work.
The family is requesting memorial donations be made to the Santa Monica Mountains Trails Council, Box 345, Agoura Hills, 91376.
