THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Guide to the City's Best Trails, Parks, and Recreational Activities

Malibu is renowned for its beaches, parks, and canyons, offering many outdoor recreational activities beyond its scenic seascapes. The city's beautiful surroundings provide countless opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and more.

Among Malibu's treasured trails is the Zuma Ridge Trailhead. A moderately challenging 5.6-mile trail, it offers sweeping vistas of Zuma Beach, Point Dume, Malibu High School, and the ocean. The trail welcomes hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers year-round. As one ascends, the stunning views are amplified at various lookout points. The trail's peak elevation is 1,800 feet, providing a robust workout for those looking for a physical challenge.

In contrast, the Solstice Canyon trail caters to hikers of different skill levels with options for easy, moderate, or strenuous hikes. The 2.6-mile trail meanders through coastal sage scrub and riparian plant communities, leading to a popular waterfall destination. The remnants of the Keller House, a century-old stone hunting cabin, add a touch of historical intrigue to the hike.

For birding, hiking, and mountain biking enthusiasts, the Backbone Trail to Sandstone Peak provides a moderately challenging 3.2-mile trail. Offering stunning views throughout the year, this trail has a welcoming policy for dogs, provided they are kept on a leash.

Beyond trails, Malibu is home to multiple parks. The conveniently located Malibu Bluffs Park offers stunning Pacific Ocean views, sports fields, a playground, and the Michael Landon Community Center. On the other hand, the peaceful Las Flores Creek Park, nestled a quarter-mile up Las Flores Canyon Road from Pacific Coast Highway, provides a tranquil retreat with a trail, picnic tables, and a playground. It also hosts 45 varieties of native plant species.

Trancas Canyon Park is unique as Malibu's first and only off-leash dog park, ideal for pets to socialize and play. Other tranquil spots include Legacy Park, an outdoor learning center located in the heart of Malibu, and Escondido Canyon Park, which houses one of California's top ten waterfalls. Lastly, Point Dume Natural Preserve, a tranquil gem offering awe-inspiring views, is an excellent spot for observing the migration of gray whales.