Solstice Canyon in Malibu
Solstice Canyon State Park in Malibu, CA is a very pretty park rich with history dating back to the early 20th century. There are hiking trails available for all levels of hikers – beginner short, flat trails to the biggie trails at over 6 miles!
This site is home to one of the only year-round waterfalls in the Santa Monica Mountains as well as the ruins of 2 homesteads. Historically, the Chumash originally used the land for food, water and shelter. Ranchers would graze their cattle here. Matthew Keller built a stone cottage in Solstice Canyon sometime around 1865. The frame of the house still stands and is believed to be the oldest existing stone in Malibu. It is still visible today as you walk down the Solstice Canyon Trail.
In 1952, renowned African-American architect Paul Williams designed a house for Fred and Florence Roberts. The home was later acknowledged for its unique design skillfully blending nature with modern conveniences. Unfortunately it was destroyed in a fire in the late 80’s. However, you can still see the buildings foundation and get a good feel for what it would have been like. Can you find 2 horseshoe prints forever locked in time?
Another cool, little known fact is that Solstice Canyon played a very important role in pioneering space research. Technology Laboratories, Inc rented 10 acres from the Roberts family and used it to test satellite equipment for space missions, including the Pioneer 12, from 1961-1973. Solstice Canyon in Malibu was chosen due to the lack of man-made or natural disturbances and is one of only 3 places in the world chosen for such tests.
It is a fun hike for people of all ages and abilities.
We hiked Solstice Canyon in Malibu with a group of friends with kids age range 2 – 8 yrs/old. All of the kids did great and there were plenty of interesting spots to check out to keep their attention. It took about 3 hours, with the kids, to hike to the small waterfall and back.
Just be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks!
It does get really packed on weekends and holidays. Parking is free and limited so try to carpool if possible. This is a pet friendly trail so it is a pretty popular one here in Malibu.
If you can, check it out on a weekday – there will be way less people and you may just get an up close parking spot!
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