Solstice Canyon
Looking for a cool and relaxing hike during the recent hot days of late summer?
Location
Entrance is located at the intersection of Corral Canyon Road and Solstice Canyon Road in Malibu, CA, 90265
Details
Solstice Canyon is a hidden gem right off PCH that’s part of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Good thing too as it allows dogs (on leashes of course)! There are several trails to choose from but of the two we hiked, we definitely recommend the Solstice Canyon Trail when hiking with dogs.
Early morning is ideal on weekends for both finding parking (the small lot fills up fast) and to avoid the heat. Yes, the heat! Even by the ocean, it can get very sunny and hot. The Solstice Canyon Trail is an easy 2.1 mile round trip hike mostly through shade. You’ll pass by the Keller House ruins and arrive at the ruins of the Roberts Home, a house built in 1952 that burned down in the 1982 Dayton Canyon fire. What remains are several fireplaces, a bathtub, and the many steps that made up the layout this unique home.
Beyond the Roberts Home are a series of waterfalls. Dogs are not allowed in this area. It’s quite rocky and slippery. However, there are other spots downsteam for your dog to soak in the water and cool down.
When we visited in late May (when the area was still lush and green), we started with the Rising Sun Trail and then came back on the Solstice Canyon Trail. While the Rising Sun Trail has stunning views of the ocean, there’s no shade at all for the entire length of the trail. On a sunny day in fairly cool weather, this was almost too much for our little Baxter. We stopped constantly to make sure he got enough water and it was a relief to make it down to the Roberts Home ruins and rest in shade. The return trip on the Solstice Canyon Trail was much easier and enjoyable for all of us.
We definitely want to return to check out the Sostomo Trail, Deer Valley Loop, and Dry Canyon trails with Baxter. This is a great area for hiking with dogs but we recommend skipping the Rising Sun Trail on sunny days for your dog’s sake.
More Photos
Resources
Baxter’s Rating
Solstice Canyon Trail
Rising Sun Trail
- Alyse
This looks so cool! I am adding this to my list of things to check out soon!
this website is SO helpful! Bookmarked with Gratitude! Thanks SO Much!!!
I’m glad you’ve found it helpful! Thanks! 🙂