What do you look for in a hike? Sweeping views, history, waterfalls – maybe just some nice scenery? If you answered “yes” to all, then the Solstice Canyon in Malibu sounds like it’s right up your alley. This three-mile loop trail is quite popular because it packs in a ton of awesome scenery and history in a short amount of time. Following the trail, you’ll be led to historic ruins and even a gorgeous waterfall. Simply put, there’s never a dull moment on this canyon hike, so be sure to check it out for your next adventure.

Winding through a canyon in the Santa Monica Mountains is an easy loop trail that's jam-packed with things to see and explore. Leading you through the gorgeous Malibu hills, the Solstice Canyon Trail doesn't disappoint!
Marty B/Flickr
The short hike is just three miles round trip on a wide, well-maintained trail. Although there are a few steep sections, it's a mostly flat, unfussy walk through the canyon. This makes it perfect for hikers of all skill levels and an especially great adventure for families!
Steve Hardy/Flickr
The trail departs from the Solstice Canyon Education Shelter at the end of Corral Canyon Road. After climbing a staircase and dirt path, you'll meet up with the Rising Sun Trail which boasts fantastic, sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding mountains. There's not a lot of shade for this portion - water, sunscreen, and a hat are a must.
Thirsty in LA/Flickr

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The trail ends at the old ruins of what was once the Roberts Ranch House designed by renowned architect Paul R. Williams. Burned down by wildfires in 1982, all that remains of this relaxing retreat are a few brick walls and a chimney.
Juan Monroy/Flickr
The sound of rushing water near the ranch house ruins will lead you to a lovely waterfall. Cascading into several small pools, the pretty little falls are a great spot to sit and enjoy lunch before heading back to the trailhead.
Don Barrett/Flickr
The great thing about the Solstice Canyon Trail is that there's so much to explore! There are several smaller ruins along the bank of the creek that are fun to seek out.
Jason Rojas/Flickr
You could easily extend the hike for a longer adventure by hopping on the Deer Valley Loop Trail just south of the ranch ruins. Otherwise, you can retrace your steps back to the trailhead at the Education Shelter. Breathtaking views, history, and a gorgeous waterfall - this hike truly has it all.
Marty B/Flickr

Have you checked off the Solstice Canyon Trail from your bucket list? Let us know what you think of this one-of-a-kind hike in Southern California below! While you’re exploring the beauty of Southern California, take a look at some secret spots where you can get away from it all.

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Southern California has a lot of mysterious natural wonders to observe. In Death Valley, there’s an area called The Racetrack where large stones on the cracked desert appear to move of their own accord, leaving trails in the ground behind them. The Mojave Desert contains the Trona Pinnacles, which are spires of porous tufa rock that look like the landscape of another planet. Then there’s the lava tube in the Mojave Natural Preserve where sunlight shines through a hole at the top, lighting up what looks like a prehistoric cave.

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Southern California is completely packed with gorgeous state parks. One of the best is El Capitan Beach State Park where cliffs laden with ice plant overlook pristine beaches. Monarch butterflies can be seen here especially when the ice plant is blooming with its purplish flowers. It’s a lovely scene all around. Will Rogers State Park is a gorgeous 186-acre nature preserve that is so serene and beautiful to behold. Saddleback Butte State Park in Antelope Valley has intriguing rock formations and it a wonderful camping area. During the spring it comes alive with wildflowers.

What places in Southern California have the most stunning views?

There is no shortage of vistas, overlooks, and various other breathtaking views in Southern California. Joshua Tree tends to attract a lot of artists and photographers, and for good reason. The wide landscape is filled with yucca trees and there are interesting rock formations of every shape. The sunsets cast an ethereal glow on the area in the evening. Laguna Beach has a stone tower that looks like a medieval relic, and it’s right on the shore, creating a view that looks like something from a fantasy novel.

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3455 Solstice Canyon Rd, Malibu, CA 90265, USA