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Solstice Canyon: Malibu's Natural and Historical Gem

Explore Malibu's Solstice Canyon: Hike through history and nature in the Santa Monica Mountains. Discover ruins, a waterfall, and ocean views.

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Solstice Canyon, nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains near Malibu, California, offers a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Hike past the ruins of a stone hunting cabin, a grand ranch house designed by a prominent African-American architect, and the remnants of a space-age research facility, all while enjoying the tranquility of a perennial stream and diverse plant life.

A brief summary to Solstice Canyon

  • Monday 6 am-9 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-9 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-9 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-9 pm
  • Friday 6 am-9 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-9 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-9 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the parking lot is small and fills up quickly.
  • Bring water and wear sturdy shoes, as some trails can be steep and uneven.
  • Be aware of potential hazards such as ticks, bees, rattlesnakes, and poison oak.
  • Dogs are allowed on leash, but not at the waterfall.
  • Check the National Park Service website for current fire restrictions and trail closures.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) in Malibu, turn inland onto Corral Canyon Road. Drive approximately 0.25 miles to the park entrance on the left. Limited parking is available in the main lot, which is open from 8:00 a.m. to sunset. If the main lot is full, there is a small overflow lot right after the entrance. If both lots are full, you can park along Corral Canyon Road, exercising caution and ensuring your vehicle is completely outside the road striping. Be prepared for a longer walk to the trailhead from Corral Canyon Road. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    While there isn't a direct public transportation route to Solstice Canyon, the Metro 534 bus runs along Pacific Coast Highway. From the nearest bus stop on PCH, you would need to walk inland along Corral Canyon Road to reach the park entrance, adding approximately 0.25 miles to your journey. Check the Metro website or app for the most up-to-date bus schedules and fare information. A single ride on Metro costs $1.75.

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Discover more about Solstice Canyon

Solstice Canyon, located within the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, is a captivating destination where nature intertwines with history. The canyon has attracted people for thousands of years, starting with the Chumash who utilized the land for food, water, and shelter. The main trail, Solstice Canyon Trail, is an easy 2.1-mile round trip that gently ascends, following the creek through a riparian corridor of oak and sycamore trees. Along the way, hikers can explore the ruins of the Keller House, a stone hunting cabin built in 1903 after a wildfire destroyed the original wooden structure. The stone walls are still visible across the stream, offering a glimpse into the past. Further upstream lies the Roberts Ranch House, designed in 1952 by renowned African-American architect Paul Williams for Fred and Florence Roberts. The house incorporated natural features like waterfalls and springs into its design. Though ravaged by fire in 1982, the foundation remains, allowing visitors to experience the layout of this once-grand home. For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Rising Sun Trail offers a 1.5-mile climb along the eastern ridgeline, rewarding hikers with panoramic ocean views. Another option is the 3.9-mile Deer Valley Loop, which meanders through chaparral and coastal sage scrub to the western ridge of the canyon. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, quail, bobcats, lizards, and various bird species. Solstice Canyon also holds a unique place in space exploration history. From 1961 to 1973, a research facility operated here, testing satellite equipment for space missions, including the Pioneer series. The TRW Loop Trail leads past the remains of this facility, where you can see the foundations of the buildings, including the circular base of the silo-like structure used for magnetometer testing. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply a peaceful escape, Solstice Canyon offers something for everyone. Remember to bring water, wear appropriate footwear, and be aware of potential hazards such as ticks, bees, rattlesnakes, and poison oak.

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