Last weekend we found one of the coolest hiking gems in the Santa Monica mountains, Solistice Canyon in Malibu. To get there, head north on PCH and turn right onto Corral Canyon Road which is a few miles north of Pepperdine. You can park on the main road or in either of the two small parking lots.
The trail is a loop with a tale of two paths, the low road and high road. The first is a smooth gradual climb that will lead you directly to the back of the canyon. This is recommended for those who aren't experienced hikers or those short on time. Along that path, you will see the remains of a small single room cabin that was built around 1900 which later burned down and is now being preserved as a place of historical interest...and that's not the most interesting part. For those of you seeking a challenge jump on the high road, the Rising Sun train heads up the ridge to the right, and has spectacular ocean views along the way. This is a pretty steady climb and quick decent to the back of the canyon and even on a cool day, I was sweating my head off! I highly recommend taking this path for a good workout, it will totally be worth it when you reach your destination at the back of the canyon, to what is known as Tropical Terrace.
This is where you'll discover a 30' waterfall which runs through the ruins of an old style ranch house built in the 1950's. This home was originally built as a dream of a mid-western man who wanted his very own secluded west coast ranch. Unfortunately, the house burned down, not once, but twice. Known as the Roberts Family ranch, the foundation of the house still remains along with a couple of the chimneys and an old bath tub. There are plaques that show pictures of the original house so you can imagine how amazing this place truly was.
This site is great for exploring. There are plenty of boulders to climb, additional paths that shoot up past the falls, and even a sanctuary with some hidden spiritual statues and monuments. You can make this hike as relaxing or challenging as you want taking either path in or out. No matter how you plan on conquering Solistice Canyon and the Tropical Terrace, there is always room for wine!
After the hike, as a treat for your hard work, check out Malibu Wines! A quick drvie over the hill and you will find one of the best local wineries and picnic spots, located on Mulholland Highway west of Kanan. Grab yourself a glass of pinot at the wine bar, crack open that picnic basket, and settle down in this amazing atmosphere. Saturday afternoons they have some live music as well. Eat, Drink and Enjoy!
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