Solstice Canyon
Santa Monica Mountains
Distance: 3.3 miles
Duration: 2 hours
Elevation Gain: 400 feet
Difficulty: 2 (highest 5)
Season: All year round
Recommended rating: 4 (out of 5)
Outline
- Introduction
- Getting There
- The Hiking Trail
- Roberts Family Mansion
- Rising Sun Trail
- El Nido Trail
- Conclusion
- FAQs
- Links & References
Introduction
Solstice Canyon, situated in Malibu, California, is a mesmerizing hiking trail that presents hikers with an opportunity to witness the splendor of California’s natural scenery. This hiking trail is an absolute must-visit destination for nature lovers and enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore why Solstice Canyon Hiking Trail is an exceptional experience and an attraction that should be noticed.
Getting There
Getting to Solstice Canyon is simple. From the end of the Santa Monica Freeway (10Fwy), follow Route 1 (Pacific Coast Hwy) for approximately 15 miles until you reach Corral Canyon. At the entrance to Solstice Canyon, there is a parking lot where you can park your car. Once you have parked, you will find multiple hiking trails.
The Hiking Trail
The Solstice Canyon hiking trail is a 3.3-mile loop that usually takes around two hours to complete. With a 400 feet climbing altitude and a difficulty rating of 2 (out of 5), the hiking trail is open throughout the year. The rating is 4 out of 5, making it a popular hiking destination for individuals of all ages.
As you begin your hike, you will be surrounded by breathtaking tall trees, such as oaks and alder trees that grow in the valley. The trail is full of grasses and flowers, giving it a unique charm. With the sound of the waterway adding to its peacefulness, the hiking trail is quite secluded. For the first two miles, you will walk along a paved road, and the trail is full of grasses and flowers of radish height.
Roberts Family Mansion
After walking for a little over a mile, on your left, you will see an oak tree with its branches covering the sky, and by its shape and size, you can tell that it is no ordinary tree. Following the stream flowing from the top of the canyon, you will come across a house built in 1952 by the Roberts Family, the owners of this place. This mansion, built alongside a stream with large palm trees, waterfalls, and crystal-clear water, was renowned for its exceptional design in harmony with nature.
Rising Sun Trail
Look at the house named ‘Tropical Terrace’ on the map and go up along the Rising Sun Trail across the stream. The signpost indicates 1.6 miles to the parking lot. This road leads directly to the ridge, and as you ascend, you will encounter low peaks draped in verdant greenery. Continuing to climb along the hiking trail and eventually turning downhill, you will be mesmerized by the Pacific Ocean spreading out before your eyes. As you descend along the ridge overlooking the valley, you will eventually return to the starting point.
El Nido Trail
Another popular hiking trail in the Solstice Canyon area, is the El Nido Trail. The first Keller House, known as Malibu’s oldest stone house, was built in 1865. This hiking trail is longer than the Solstice Canyon trail, at 5.5 miles long, and takes 3-4 hours to complete. This hiking trail is more challenging than the Solstice Canyon trail, with a difficulty rating of 3 (out of 5).
Conclusion
In summary, Solstice Canyon Hiking Trail is a hidden gem in Malibu, California, providing a peaceful and stunning natural experience. Visitors have a range of hiking trails to appreciate California’s landscape’s unique beauty. The Solstice Canyon trail is ideal for people of all ages and skill levels. At the same time, the El Nido Trail is more challenging and suited for experienced hikers. Regardless of the trail chosen, visitors will enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the opportunity to witness the splendor of California’s natural scenery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is there an entrance fee for the Solstice Canyon hiking trail? A: No, there is no entrance fee for the Solstice Canyon hiking trail.
Q: Are dogs allowed on the Solstice Canyon hiking trail? A: Dogs are allowed on the Solstice Canyon hiking trail, but they must always be kept on a leash.
Q: Is there a restroom on the hiking trail? A: Yes, there is a restroom near the parking lot at the hiking trail entrance.
Q: Is there a picnic area on the hiking trail? A: Yes, there is a picnic area near the parking lot at the hiking trail entrance.
Links & References
- Solstice Canyon – National Park Service website: https://www.nps.gov/samo/planyourvisit/solsticecanyon.htm
- California State Parks – Solstice Canyon State Park website: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=616
- Friends of Solstice Canyon – Official website of a non-profit organization that supports Solstice Canyon: https://www.friendsofsolsticecanyon.org/
