Sarah, Kelvin, and I headed north up PCH past Malibu to hike to Sandstone Peak today. This gorgeous hike was well worth the drive. The hike gives you unexpected views of southern California’s gorgeous wilderness.
Hike Basics
Miles: 6 miles, loop
Elevation Gain: 1400 ft.
Duration: 2 Hours and 45 Minutes
The address of the trailhead and parking area is 13500 Yerba Buena Rd, Malibu, CA 90265.
For the hike, we used this map generously provided to us by a park ranger in the dirt parking lot, but it can also be found through the NPS website on Circle X Ranch. We took Mishe Mokwa Trail up and the Backbone Trail down, taking the back and out trail to climb up to Sandstone Peak. The trails are very well maintained, however watch out for the occasional poison oak along the trails. There are some shady areas on the Mishe Mokwa Trail, but for the most part the trails are uncovered. Definitely bring plenty of water and wear sunscreen.
I loved the views of these gorgeous green mountains throughout the hike.
There were tons of pretty wildflowers all along the trails. Sustainable plants can totally be beautiful.
There were lots of large boulders scattered along the mountains.
Sarah!
The Balanced Rock.
Kelvin in front of Split Rock.
This rock looks like an elephant/hippo.
I’ve been really into succulents, and I was super excited to see a healthy one in the wild!
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