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Solstice Canyon: Malibu's Natural and Historical Gem

Explore Malibu's Solstice Canyon: Hike through history and nature, discover ruins, and enjoy ocean views in this Santa Monica Mountains gem.

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Solstice Canyon, nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains near Malibu, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. This accessible park features a variety of hiking trails, from easy strolls along a shaded, creek-side path to more challenging climbs with panoramic ocean views. Discover the ruins of the Keller House, a stone hunting cabin dating back to the late 19th century, and the remnants of the Roberts Ranch House, a mid-20th century modern residence designed by renowned African-American architect Paul Revere Williams. The perennial waterfall, though sometimes a trickle, adds to the canyon's charm, making it a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers, and history buffs alike. With its rich history, diverse trails, and stunning scenery, Solstice Canyon provides a memorable escape into Southern California's natural landscape.

A brief summary to Solstice Canyon

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking is limited and the lot fills up quickly. Consider carpooling or using public transportation.
  • Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and protect yourself from the sun, as some trails offer limited shade.
  • Explore beyond the main Solstice Canyon Trail to discover more secluded trails and panoramic ocean views.
  • Visit after a rainfall to experience the waterfall at its fullest, but be prepared for potentially muddy trails.
  • Be aware of potential hazards such as ticks, rattlesnakes, and poison oak, and take necessary precautions.
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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 free parking is available in the main lot. If the lot is full, parking is permitted along Corral Canyon Road, ensuring your vehicle is entirely outside the road striping to avoid towing. Exercise caution while walking from Corral Canyon Road to the park entrance.

  • Public Transport

    Take Metro Bus 534, which stops a few hundred feet south of the park entrance on Pacific Coast Highway. From the bus stop, walk north along PCH to Corral Canyon Road, then turn inland and walk approximately 0.25 miles to the park entrance on the left. The cost for a single ride on Metro Bus 534 is $1.75.

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Discover more about Solstice Canyon

Solstice Canyon, a part of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and historical remnants, easily accessible from the Pacific Coast Highway near Malibu. This canyon has drawn people for thousands of years, starting with the Chumash who utilized its resources for sustenance and shelter. Today, it offers visitors a chance to explore diverse hiking trails, discover architectural ruins, and enjoy the tranquility of a perennial stream. Solstice Canyon's trails cater to a range of abilities, from leisurely walkers to seasoned hikers. The Solstice Canyon Trail, a mostly paved path, gently meanders alongside a shaded riparian corridor, making it ideal for families and casual strolls. For a more challenging experience, the Rising Sun Trail ascends the eastern ridgeline, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastal landscape. The Sostomo Trail and Deer Valley Loop offer longer, more strenuous hikes through chaparral and coastal sage scrub, providing a deeper immersion into the canyon's natural environment. As you explore Solstice Canyon, you'll encounter remnants of its rich past. The Keller House, believed to be the oldest stone building in Malibu, stands as a testament to the area's early settlers. Built in the late 19th century, this hunting cabin has withstood numerous wildfires, though the 2007 Corral Fire ultimately left it in ruins. Further along the trail, you'll discover the Roberts Ranch House, designed in 1952 by Paul Revere Williams, a pioneering African-American architect who also designed homes for celebrities like Frank Sinatra and Lucille Ball. Though the house was destroyed by a fire in 1982, its foundations, walls, and other architectural elements remain, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of its former owners. The perennial waterfall, a popular destination within Solstice Canyon, adds to the area's allure. While the waterfall's flow may vary depending on the season and rainfall, it provides a refreshing respite and a scenic backdrop for exploration. The surrounding area is home to a variety of wildlife, including acorn woodpeckers, alligator lizards, fence lizards, and red-tailed hawks, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Solstice Canyon also holds a unique place in the history of space exploration. In the 1960s, Thompson-Ramo-Wooldridge (TRW) leased a portion of the Roberts Ranch to conduct research for the Pioneer series of NASA space missions. The area's electromagnetic quietude made it an ideal location for testing sensitive satellite equipment. Today, visitors can see the foundations of the TRW buildings at the TRW Overlook, a reminder of the canyon's role in early space research. Visiting Solstice Canyon requires some planning. Parking is limited, especially on weekends, so arriving early is highly recommended. Alternatively, consider taking the Metro bus 534, which stops near the park entrance. Be sure to bring water, wear sturdy shoes, and protect yourself from the sun, as some trails offer limited shade. Dogs are allowed on leashes, but they are not permitted at the waterfall. Stay on established trails to protect the canyon's delicate ecosystem and be aware of potential hazards such as ticks, rattlesnakes, and poison oak. Solstice Canyon is more than just a scenic hiking destination; it's a place where nature, history, and human ingenuity converge. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape into nature, a glimpse into Malibu's past, or a connection to the spirit of exploration, Solstice Canyon offers a unique and rewarding experience.

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