Solstice Canyon Trail

Solstice Canyon lies between 2 sets of fairly low hills in the Santa Monica Mountains adjacent to Malibu Beach. The trail is one of several accessible via the Pacific Coast Highway, just 30 minutes from Santa Monica. This is a short, relatively easy hike that is pawrfect for kiddos and pups. Much of it is paved, and the rest is easygoing packed dirt, and quite wide. The trail is open to equestrians and bicyclists, and its gradual incline makes it handicapped accessible as well. The presence of restrooms, a picnic area and water fountains make this a convenient, short and comfortable hike.

Surrounded by coastal sage brush and wildflowers, along with many beautiful shade trees, the trail follows a creek that arises from a 30-foot seasonal waterfall at its endpoint. The area is home to wildlife that includes many species of woodpeckers, songbirds, raptors and quail, plus lizards, snakes and deer. 

Two places of interest are the burnt ruins of the modest Keller House and the more mansion-like Roberts' Ranch. The Keller House can be viewed from beyond a wrought-iron fence on the other side of the creek from the trail. The Roberts' ruin, however is open to exploring the house and grounds. Surrounded by the man-made Tropical Terrace, it features many fireplaces, terraces and natural stone pools. A sign with photos of the house before it was destroyed, and some historical information, stands at the front of the house. Alongside, winding up a small hill, are stone steps that lead to the waterfall, literally in the house's backyard. A furtastic place for photos, the rocky waterfall is a mere trickle unless you're fortunate enough to visit after a rain. 

The Solstice Trail provides access to several others, including the Rising Sun which can be accessed by climbing past the waterfall and ascending a steep hill to the summit. The Rising Sun loops back down to the parking area and many hikers enjoy the additional couple of miles for its spectacular view of the Pacific and Catalina Island. 

Your woofer will love this trail's gradual and paw-friendly surface and sniffable wildlife, and so will you!