Solstice Canyon – Deer Valley Loop Hike

The weather has warmed up as we hiked Solstice Canyon with great views of the Pacific Ocean.  It was a 4 hour hike and we had 14 guys in attendance

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