The 10 Best Hiking Trails in Malibu
The Malibu area has various outdoor activities that individuals can engage in during their free time. With its scenic environment, the area presents the best hiking trail to help you relax your mind. Do you know the best hiking trails in Malibu for your next outdoor activities? Keep reading to discover more about the Malibu hiking trails.
1. Point Dume Cove Trail
If you want an area to list the best hiking trails in Malibu, the Point Dume Cove trail should be at the top spot on your list. The trail features an amazing ocean view and sandy beaches. In addition, Point Dume offers a serene and peaceful ambiance, ideal for unwinding and hanging out with friends.
When hiking on these trails, you’ll enjoy views from the coastal bluffs. The trail is well-maintained, making it ideal for children. However, some areas have rough terrain, which would require extra care when hiking with children. In addition, the coastal terrain might be difficult to maneuver if you don’t wear comfortable shoes.
Point Dume presents an ideal trail for people seeking to spend their afternoon on the beach. The best part about this area is that minimal connective paths make it impossible to get lost.
2. Los Liones Trail
The Los Liones area is popular among hikers and backpackers due to its scenic nature. It’s the ideal place to choose if you are looking for a challenging nature trail. The trail begins with steep terrain, and the first few miles have minimal shade. However, the final few miles provide the best terrain for hiking, and with plenty of trees, you get to hike under shade.
The Los Liones trail offers an amazing view of the Pacific Ocean and the Will Rogers State Beach. However, if you plan to hike with your dog, you should look for another trail because Los Liones doesn’t allow dogs in the area.
The Los Liones trail park allows you to pass through Topanga State Park as you enjoy the beauty of nature. It’s an ideal location for people seeking to unwind after weeks of hard work.
3. Solstice Canyon Loop
The Solstice Canyon Loop is one of Malibu’s most popular nature trails. The main advantage of this area is that you hike under the shade throughout the trail. Hikers pass through moderately rough terrain before reaching the Roberts house Ranch, one of the common landmarks in the location.
You get a clear view of a waterfall as you progress up the mountain. Then, you will take a zigzag path to the mountain’s top, where hikers catch their breath. At the mountain’s top, you get to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. If your dog must tag along, ensure it’s on a leash. It’s also accessible throughout the year.
4. Mugu Peak Trail
According to Backpacker Goods, Mugu Peak offers the best location if you are looking for a challenging trail to facilitate a workout. The trail is not long but has steep terrain that will engage your core muscles as you walk toward Point Mugu. You’ll need to catch your breath after the first mile, regardless of your fitness level.
The trail passes near a rifle range, so you will sometimes hear gunshots. It doesn’t have an official parking area, so it’s up to you to know where you will park your vehicle. Also, the Mugu Peak trail doesn’t allow dogs in the area.
Are you a lover of oceanic waters? Then, getting to the top of the trail is worth the effort because you’ll enjoy the great view of the Pacific Ocean.
5. Zuma Canyon Loop Trail
The Zuma Canyon Loop Trail is among the longest in the region, thus presenting hikers with a challenging experience. The area is ideal for experienced hikers seeking hours of workouts as they enjoy the amazing views of the California landscape.
The 10-mile trail has plenty of wildlife, offering a scenic and ambient environment to relax your mind. Unfortunately, the area doesn’t have a lot of shade, so it’s important to carry plenty of sunscreen and water.
Do you love hiking with your dog? The Zuma Canyon Loop Trail allows dogs but only on a leash. It also allows horses and mountain bikes, hence ideal for different age groups and people who can’t walk for long distances. Therefore, the next time you think of bike riding, the area will be among your top picks.
6. Topanga Lookout Trail
The 2-mile trail allows people to hike all year round as they enjoy amazing sunset views during the summer. People describe it as the best place to view cotton candy clouds. The trail is located in the Santa Monica hills and allows people to walk along a graffitied ledge.
If you are looking for a hiking trail with your children, it’s an ideal option due to the moderate terrain. You can also hike with your dog while on a leash. People can park their vehicles on Stunt Rd or along the street. However, one needs to know the paring limitations to prevent car towing.
Most of the road is flat with several curves. The trail doesn’t have much shade, so people prefer to hike in the evenings when it’s less hot. The main feature of this trail is the amazing sunset views, which is an added advantage when hiking during the evening.
7. Rock Pool and Century Lake Trail
People access the Rock Pool and Century Lake Trail all year round. The trafficked trail has a lake and a terrain ideal for people with different hiking skills. Therefore, if you are a beginner worried that you’ll get tired, this is the best trail to choose. In addition, the lake offers a scenic and relaxing view.
You could also hike by horse if you don’t prefer walking for long distances. The Malibu Creek park offers various activities you can engage in during the hike. Among them are rock climbing, bird watching, and mountain biking.
8. Lake Vista Trail
The Lake Vista trail offers a scenic view of Malibu lake and its surrounding mountains. The trails consist of a network of routes offering a view of the lake. The trail begins by going downhill and ascending to the mountains surrounding Malibu lake.
The intersected trail system is ideal for adults, and no dogs are allowed. Therefore, you’ll need your map to ensure you don’t get lost in the mountains.
9. The Backbone Trail to Sandstone Peak
The Backbone Trail to Sandstone Peak offers a challenging experience for hikers. The starting point of this trail has moderate terrain and doesn’t change a lot throughout the course of the hike.
According to The Travel, it’s ideal for weekend hikes and suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The trail has 3.2 miles of hiking options leading to Sandstone Peak, among the most popular destinations in Malibu. You can tag along with your dog as long as it’s on a leash.
10. Escondido Falls
Escondido Falls is one of the easiest trails to get to, making it the most popular among the locals. The 3.8-mile trail offers a scenic view of Escondido Falls.
The trail has moderate ground, and you’ll enjoy a cool breeze as you hike along. It’s ideal for all ages and people who like taking pictures. However, if you love your dog, ensure it’s on a leash, or else it won’t be allowed onto the trail.
What Should I Bring During a Hiking Trail?
A hiking trail is a journey. It’s also an event you can enjoy with friends and family. Hiking trails will take you through beautiful places with amazing views, so you must be prepared for the journey. Prepare a list of the items you might need to facilitate your comfort.
If you plan to hike during the hot weather, ensure to carry protective wear such as sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen. You also need comfortable hiking boots, snacks, water, and a map to trace your location.
Can I Hike at Night?
Hiking is a great way to exercise and explore the outdoors. It’s also a time-honored tradition for camping and family fun in the summer months. Hiking at night is an accessible and fun way to enjoy the wilderness after dark, with few limitations as long as you plan.
Before going on your night hike, check with your local park service or trail manager. Many parks require you to register with them before going on a night hike. Additionally, some trails may only be accessible during the day hours when they are the most crowded, and other hikers may not be familiar with the rules of hiking at night. Therefore, it’s best to plan and be sure that wherever you’re hiking at night is accessible during those hours.
It’s also important that you don’t hike alone for safety reasons. The best part about hiking at night is that you won’t need sunscreen or too much water. The quietness after dark offers an ideal ambiance to relax your mind. Some trails would also provide you with amazing views of the neighboring cities as you enjoy the view of the stars during the summer.
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