By This is a popular hike in Malibu, CA because it’s kid-friendly and has a historic site. The trailhead is not too far from the scenic Pacific Coast Hwy. There are several small parking areas. I arrived before 8:30 am on a holiday and was able to park in the main lot.
I love May Grey and June Gloom, unlike most people, live around here because I love hiking and running early in the morning. If you are traveling to Southern California, expect mornings to be cloudy every day during these two months. Sun comes out around noon though so it’s a nice balance.
The Solstice Canyon Trail is mostly paved.
Recently, a thunderstorm came through this area. I didn’t realize how bad it had been until I saw the trail condition. There were sights similar to below on the hilly side of the trail where the gush of water coming down from the top created a wide pathway to the trail. Remnants of the mudslide.
The entire width used to be the trail but now the mud and the rocks piled up on the sides of the trail and made the trail narrower than before.
Lightning must have gotten this tree during the storm. Inside of the tree trunk was still healthy even though the outside was burned.
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Solstice Canyon trail has a gradual uphill which makes it family-friendly. At 1.2 mile mark, you will reach this sign below and the ruins of the old stone house which was burned down by the fire.
For those history lovers out there…
We took a break here and walked around to explore the remnants of the house. At this point, a lot of people turn around and go back to the trailhead. Instead, I took the Rising Sun Trail to make this hike a loop. Time to climb.
Canyon view
You can also see the ocean from the Rising Sun Trail. We almost completed the loop and the main parking lot was in our view.
Good to Know:
- Hike Date: 5.25.15
- Distance: 3.1 miles RT
- Elevation Gain: 797 ft
- Difficulty Rating: Moderate
- Restrooms available near the trailhead
- Heavily-trafficked, dogs on leash
Get Our Latest Comprehensive Dog-friendly Trail List Here. Enjoy!
Happy Hiking!
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Hiking Girl with Dog 
I would have really enjoyed this walk. I love seeing the remains of old buildings. I always take a bit of time to imagine what it would have been like full of people and busyness. Like you, I don’t mind cloudy weather on a walk. I expect Californian days can get quite hot. Cloudy days here give me some relief from the baking Australian summer sun. You made me laugh about the snake. Thanks for the entertainment! 🙂
Ha ha, welcome to my world. Yes, you would’ve liked this hike based on your adventures!