This is a gentle walk up a shaded canyon to ruins encased in a strangely tropical setting.
Location: Solstice
Canyon Park, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area Region: Malibu/Santa Monica Mountains Distance: 3.0-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy with moderate hills When to go: Year-round Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: 805-370-2301 Elevation Gain: 800 ft. Are dogs allowed: Yes, on a leash. Restrooms: In the parking lot. Parking: Free
Trail Information
Full Review: Tropical Terrace epitomizes
Southern California quirk. In this canyon enclave, camels and giraffes once
wandered among the tall palms and other imported tropical plants. The area
became park property in 1988, six years after it burned down in a Malibu
wildfire. Now, large-leafed foliage and ranch house ruins mark the spot. And
the surrounding canyon is one of the most under-appreciated chunks of land
in the Santa Monicas. Start off at the Solstice Canyon trailhead, on the
paved road just past the park office. As the trail follows a creek up the
canyon under cover of sycamore and live oaks, you'll pass by the stone
Keller house (c. 1865) on the right.
When you see the tall palms, you'll know you've reached Tropical Terrace.
Take time to explore the former ranch home, where curved steps lead to
fireplaces that rise upward from a concrete foundation. An oven door rests
half-open. Strange looking plants and tropical flowers surround the
property. This house was once one of Malibu's most ornate.
For the easiest return, walk back the way you came. Or, for a bit more
challenge and scenic variation, make it a loop by hiking home on the Rising
Sun Trail (you'll find it on the far end of the ruins). This option gets you
off the pavement and onto a singletrack trail that climbs an exposed
ridgeline overlooking the Pacific. Clearly marked signs point you down to
the parking lot.
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