Are you looking to explore this summer? What better way to get to know an area than a scenic hike? Malibu has access to some of the best views in California. Since there are so many different trails, it can be hard to navigate which hikes are the most suitable. Lucky for you, we laid it all out! We listed three of the best trails and categorized them based on the level of difficulty. New to hiking? Don’t worry; we have something for you. Want to challenge yourself? Again, this list has the perfect options. After a long day of hiking, get back in your car and explore Malibu, sitting down through our Wayfarer App! If you need some hiking gear, we recommend stopping at the REI in Santa Monica (402 Santa Monica Blvd). Happy Hiking!! 

Escondido Falls Trail (Beginner)

Starting our list off strong is the famous Escondido Falls Trail! This 3.7-mile hike is a perfect length for beginners. Although this almost 4-mile hike can seem daunting to novice hikers, we promise time will fly by with the views of waterfalls and the beautiful Malibu mountains. The waterfall falls from 150 feet, making the water leap over a backdrop of lush green moss and land in a serene pool. The scenery will spill out before you, and transport you out of the Los Angeles ocean town and into the beautiful tropics. 

Getting to the trail is also relatively easy, as the entrance is just off the Pacific Coast Highway. The easy access makes it an easy stop if you are doing our Malibu Tour already or if you want to get on the tour after the hike!  

Are you traveling with family or pets? This is the hike for you. This hike stays relatively flat, making it easy to bring the children along for a fun adventure. Also, the walk is a single track, which makes it easy to navigate. Just make sure you pack lots of water and snacks. Furry friends are also welcomed to join; just make sure to bring a leash.  

Solstice Canyon Loop (Intermediate)

Next on the list is Solstice Canyon Loop, which is actually featured as a stop on our Malibu tour, making it a convenient stop! This hike is complete with a waterfall and beautiful ocean views to accompany your walk. Coming in at a humble 3 miles, Solstice Canyon is one of the most popular and well-known hikes among locals. 

Along with the waterfall, you will also get to see a little bit of history on your journey up the path. At the beginning of the trial, you will see what’s left of Roberts House Ranch, a Paul R. Williams-built mid-century modern Malibu wonder. 

Since this hike is a bit rockier and more of an uphill climb than the previous trail, it is recommended that you do bring kids that are a bit older. Also, dogs are allowed as long as you get a leash!

Mugu Peak Trail (Master)

If you are feeling up to the challenge, Mugu Peak Trail is the hike for you. Don’t let the 2.7-mile length fool you into thinking it will be an easy journey. This hike is an uphill battle that will leave your legs screaming, but like the other hikes on this list, the views are entirely worth it. By the end of the trail, you may be out of breath, but you will be rewarded with a 180-degree view of the Pacific at Point Mugu. 

Since this hike is near Oxnard, it is not as crowded as the rest of the trails, making it the perfect refuge away from the city. Furthermore, Point Mugu is the last stop on our Malibu Tour, so after a day of exploring the iconic ocean town in your car, you can stretch out your legs with this challenging hike that will allow you to see Malibu in a new way.  

Written by Jada Gritton