SOLSTICE CANYONLocation: Malibu, CA
Accessibility: Easy Created: 1900-1952 |
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Malibu, California is known for ocean views, Mediterranean climate, and celebrity residents. Of course, the stretch of Pacific Coast Highway that runs through Malibu is a well-traveled road for locals and those anxious to spend a day on Malibu Beach, or on a hiking trail. Located off Corral Canyon Road and the PCH, Solstice Canyon is one of the most popular hiking trails in Malibu, and hosts more than scenic views and gentle waterfalls. Visitors of Solstice Canyon have the opportunity to not just take a hike, but to explore architectural ruins of the recent past.
Roughly located half a mile into Solstice Canyon from the parking lot (and across a bridge) are the Keller House ruins. Henry Keller purchased a wooden cabin that was destroyed in the wildfires of Solstice Canyon in 1903. Shortly after, Keller rebuilt the home which also met its demise from the 2007 Corral Canyon Fire. As it stands, the remnants of the Keller house are believed to be one of the oldest stone structures in Malibu.
The main attraction of Solstice Canyon are the ruins of the Roberts’ Family house. Established due to founding a successful grocery store chain, the Roberts owned over 1,000 acres of property. In 1952, Fred and Florence Roberts commissioned architect Paul Revere Williams to design a vacation home on their family ranch in Malibu. Reportedly, the Roberts worked closely with Williams to ensure the home donned a tropical ambiance.
Intended to be their vacation home called “Tropical Terrace”, the Roberts’ house was built in a high-risk fire area. Unfortunately, Fred Roberts passed away in 1976 and never saw the home complete. In 1982, a wildfire raged through the area that claimed most of Roberts’ home. Join us as we trek through the hills of Malibu to seek out the ruins of Solstice Canyon - and find a few surprises along the way.
Roughly located half a mile into Solstice Canyon from the parking lot (and across a bridge) are the Keller House ruins. Henry Keller purchased a wooden cabin that was destroyed in the wildfires of Solstice Canyon in 1903. Shortly after, Keller rebuilt the home which also met its demise from the 2007 Corral Canyon Fire. As it stands, the remnants of the Keller house are believed to be one of the oldest stone structures in Malibu.
The main attraction of Solstice Canyon are the ruins of the Roberts’ Family house. Established due to founding a successful grocery store chain, the Roberts owned over 1,000 acres of property. In 1952, Fred and Florence Roberts commissioned architect Paul Revere Williams to design a vacation home on their family ranch in Malibu. Reportedly, the Roberts worked closely with Williams to ensure the home donned a tropical ambiance.
Intended to be their vacation home called “Tropical Terrace”, the Roberts’ house was built in a high-risk fire area. Unfortunately, Fred Roberts passed away in 1976 and never saw the home complete. In 1982, a wildfire raged through the area that claimed most of Roberts’ home. Join us as we trek through the hills of Malibu to seek out the ruins of Solstice Canyon - and find a few surprises along the way.