Date:     Sunday, March 29, 2015
Time:    9:30AM
Near:    Malibu 90265                                                                                               
Length:  6-7 miles – 4 1/2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain:  1200 feet
Configuration:  Loop
Exposure:  Sun/Shade
Note:  Dogs are allowed on leash

Highlights:  Panoramic Views of Canyons and Ocean – Beautiful Oak Groves, Streams and Meadows

Summary

We will enjoy some of the best ocean views in the Santa Monica Mountains as we hike along the Rising Sun Trail through chaparral and coastal sage scrub to the west ridge of Solstice Canyon to the Tropical Terrace and a waterfall.  The Tropical Terrace includes the remains of the Roberts house which was built in 1952 and burned in a fire in 1982. The house was featured in an issue of Architectural Digest for its incorporation of natural features such as waterfalls and trees within the design.

Next, we go up on the Sostomo Trail and the Deer Valley Loop to our lunch spot with a great view of the Pacific Ocean near Point Mugu. This is one of the best views of the Pacific Ocean in the Santa Monica Mountains. Finally, we complete the second half of the Deer Valley Loop and return to our starting point via the Solstice Canyon Trail.  For more information about Solstice Canyon:  http://www.nps.gov/samo/upload/SitePub_solstice.pdf

Directions: Take PCH 3.5 miles west of Malibu Canyon Road, Pepperdine University, and make a right on to Corral Canyon Road at the Union 76 gas station. Proceed only 0.2 of a mile and make the first left. Go end parking lot and this is where we will meet.

Parking: The best parking location is inside the park in the upper parking lot at Solstice Canyon which is very near the hike meeting place.  On Coral Canyon road within 0.25 miles of Pacific Coast Highway you will see the park entrance on the left. The overflow parking lot is right by the entrance. If both parking lots are full you can park on Pacific Coast Highway near the turn off for Coral Canyon Road and walk to the trail head. There is no charge for parking within the park. PLEASE allow for plenty of time to park and walk to the hike starting point!

Meeting Place:  The entrance to Solstice Canyon is on Corral Canyon Road 0.25 miles inland from Pacific Coast Highway on the left side of the street. Enter the park at this point, pass the small parking lot at the entrance and follow the road to a second larger parking lot. We will meet at the bulletin board at the far end of the second parking lot which is about 0.5 miles from the first parking lot.

What to Bring: Good hiking boots/shoes. A hiking/trekking pole may be useful for the occasional step ascent/descent on the trail, but not necessary. Pack a lunch, snacks and bring plenty of water. Bring a hat/cap, sunscreen and jacket/sweater. Rain Cancels.