Newton Canyon & Upper Solstice Canyon

http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/b/9/2/event_243803442.jpegJoin us for a hike through a remote section of the backbone trail. The first ascent is right out of the parking lot: up a trail that crosses over the Kanan Dume Road tunnel. Soon after dropping down on the other side of the tunnel into Newton Canyon, we cross a bridge and continue into the woods as the noise from Kanan Dume Road fades away.

(Note: some Organizers incorrectly identify Upper Zuma Canyon as Newton Canyon. We will be hiking in the real Newton Canyon, not Upper Zuma)

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/8/a/e/event_243802702.jpegWe'll follow the north side of a ridge, giving nice views of Newton Canyon, and the shade of oaks and chaparral keep it pleasantly cool. Look to your left and gaze upon the Rosenthal Estate Winery -- you might think we were in Tuscany. Did you know Newton Canyon is now recognized as its own distinct AVA (American Viticultural Area) or appellation?

The Newton Canyon trail eventually climbs back up to meet Latigo Canyon. From here we continue to Castro Crest and descend into shady Upper Solstice Canyon. Travelling creek side through an enchanted forest at the bottom of the canyon will give us a surprisingly isolated feeling.

We'll eventually end up at the top of Corral Canyon. Just beyond there are some fanciful sandstone slabs and spires where we will explore, rest and take our snack break (not necessarily in that order).

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Hike is about a moderate to strenuous 11.5 miles. Although there is only about 500 ft net elevation gain, total will be a couple thousand feet.

Directions

The trailhead parking lot is on Kanan-Dume Rd, north side ot T1

From the Ventura Freeway 101: go south (toward beaches) on Kanan Road about 7.8 miles to just before the "third tunnel" (T1). The parking lot is on the right (west side of what is now Kanan-Dume Road) and easy to spot.

From Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu: go north on Kanan Dume Road about 4.3 miles, just through the "first tunnel," and make a left turn into the parking lot on the west side of Kanan Dume.

Parking: Meet at the "P." The arrows mark additional parking areas

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