Hiking Trails – Three I Love Near Malibu

This is the perfect time of year to get outside and enjoy the beautiful Southern California weather. Although the beach is a big part of being outside on the Westside, it certainly isn’t the only attraction. In fact, the one thing I love about the area is the number of free hiking trails.

A great source I use called Modern Hiker (https://modernhiker.com/park/los-angeles-county) shows that there are 93 different hiking trails in the Los Angeles area. Today, I’d like to focus on the three closest to Mailbu: Escondido Falls, Solstice Canyon, and Corral Canyon.

Escondido Falls

Distance: 4 miles
Time: 2 hours
Elevation Gain: 416 feet
Difficulty: Moderate

If you love waterfalls, then you’ll love this trail that leads to the tallest falls in the Santa Monica Mountains. Getting to the lower fall is an easy hike. For some people, this is enough.

Others, however, want to see the upper level where they can see the three-tiered cascade. This is a steep trail, so only give it a try if you are prepared to get your hands dirty as you haul yourself up the side of the mountain with ropes tied to trees and clamber over boulders.

If you need a bit more adventure, you can head to the top of the Upper Falls. Of course, this is for advanced hikers only.

Solstice Canyon

Distance: 6 miles
Time: 2 hours
Elevation Gain: 800 feet
Difficulty: Easy

If you are looking for a waterfall without the difficult hike, then the paved Solstice Canyon Trail may be just right for you. In addition to the waterfall, you can also see the oldest stone building in Malibu, a statuary, and the remains of a mansion. What’s more, this hike is easily accessible from the Metro (Bus 534).

One beautiful feature of this hike is a little stream that doesn’t dry out even in the worst of droughts. The foliage running alongside the stream is always green and lush. After the stream meanders past the statuary and mansion, you’ll see a small, multi-tiered waterfall with great small pools to soak your feet.

From there, you will see some great views of the ocean. The final descent is along the banks of Solstice Canyon Creek again and is a nice, easy stretch of trail with plenty of shade.

Corral Canyon

Distance: 2.5 miles
Time: 1.5 hours
Elevation Gain: 537 feet
Difficulty: Easy

Although far shorter than Solstice Canyon, this hike takes about as long because it is just a bit more rugged. However, the plant life here is amazing. I suggest that you stay to the left at the loop of the trail to give you the best views toward the end of your hike. I’ve always like saving the best for last!

The trailhead starts at a creekbed that is covered in California sagebrush. The smell is heavenly. Once you go over Corral Canyon Creek, you’ll turn north and begin to see the California Bay Laurel. Another beautiful aroma.

The midsection of the hike is where you get the elevation. During this time, look ahead to see the canyons and look behind to see nice views of the Pacific Ocean. Once you get to the top, you’ll head south again, going back toward the coast with unbelievable views of the coastline.