Wander through Southern California and you’ll find all sorts of hidden gems that you never even knew existed. Head out on this trail, for example, tucked inside the Santa Monica Mountains, and you’ll encounter some unexpected ruins that blend into the landscape and will make you drop your jaw. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll find along the Solstice Canyon Trail in Southern California.
Head to the Santa Monica Mountains and you’ll discover some breathtaking trails that are the perfect escape from the city.
thirsty in la/flickr
The trail we’re taking today is the Solstice Canyon Trail, which leads to some unexpected ruins left over from one of SoCal’s wildfires.
juan monroy/flickr
The Solstice Canyon Trail can be found at the intersection of Corral Canyon Road & Solstice Canyon Road in Malibu, CA 90265
all trails/courtney jones
Although the hike is moderate, there are points along the trail with a steep incline and several stairs to be climbed. You’ll want some sturdy shoes to navigate these areas along the trail.
eleanor sweeny/all trails
You can plan on a 3.2 mile hike out on the trail. It’s just enough distance to make an afternoon of it for a leisurely day outside.
flickr/juan monroy
In addition to the picturesque surroundings you’ll encounter along the trail, you’ll also see something a bit unexpected – the ruins of a former mansion destroyed in a forest fire.
juan monroy/flickr
You can’t help but stop and imagine what this once looked like before the fire destroyed the surroundings.
laura dondero/all trails
Built of stone, brick and wood, this stunning home that was originally started in the 1930s is nothing but a shell of what it once was.
juan monroy/flickr
After the home was destroyed in the fire, the remains of the structure were left in the Santa Monica Mountains as a reminder of the history of this area and as a reminder of the fire that destroyed the surrounding structures and land.
all trails/jennifer ashton
During your hike you’ll have a chance to stop and look around at this area once occupied by such a beautiful home nestled inside the Santa Monica Mountains.
juan monroy/flickr
It’s hard to believe that this is all that remains today.
milad salehi/all trails
What do you think of this hiking trail in Southern California? If you’ve ever had the chance to hike the Solstice Canyon Trail, we’d love to know in the comments.
thirsty in la/flickr
juan monroy/flickr
all trails/courtney jones
eleanor sweeny/all trails
flickr/juan monroy
laura dondero/all trails
all trails/jennifer ashton
milad salehi/all trails
For more epic hikes in Southern California, make sure to take a look at these short hikes that are all under three miles.
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