Need Some Father’s Day Activities Near Prospector Ranch? Here’s some Hiking Ideas
~ Natalia Radcliffe ~
Father’s Day is coming up in just a few weeks! It’s the perfect excuse to honor and celebrate fathers or father figures in your lives. Why not give them a weekend vacation this year?
If you’re looking for a western-themed escape in a temperate area close to many different things to do, check us out at Prospector Ranch! We have a Conestoga covered wagon for history lovers, a vintage 1972 Airstream for a blast from the past, and a Safari tent for those who have an itch for camping out under the stars in rustic comfort. If your loved one enjoys exploring the beauty and peacefulness of the outdoors, we recommend to include some hiking trails in your Father’s Day weekend itinerary.
As we’re closer to the beach, we have more moderate temperatures, and often have cooler temperatures than other more inland places in Southern California. Therefore, even on more warmer days as we jump into the summer months, it could still make nice weather for a hike.
To get ideas flowing, enjoy a list of some handpicked trails near Prospector Ranch that owner Meggan Kimberley herself enjoys to traverse.
Backbone Trail
This trail is about 67 miles long, spanning from the Ray Miller trailhead on one end to the Will Rogers trailhead on the other end.
It has a variety scenic spots, ranging from majestic mountain views to ocean views.
To hike the whole trail takes multiple days, but there are shorter sections to hike if you don't want to commit to traversing the entire 67 miles.
If you're looking to start on the trail from Prospector Ranch, the nearby places of Will Rogers State Historic Park or Point Mugu are places to hop on.
For more information, visit https://www.nps.gov/samo/planyourvisit/backbonetrail.htm
Backbone Trail to Sandstone Peak and Mishe Mokwa Trail Loop
This trail is located at the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and loops around.
It’s a moderate hike, spanning about 5.7 miles.
The Echo Cliffs not only make for beautiful views, but are also a popular spot for rock climbers. The scenery from the top of Sandstone Peak and Inspiration Point can have some beautiful views as well.
For more information, visit https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/backbone-trail-to-sandstone-peak-and-mishe-mokwa-trail-loop
Sycamore Canyon
Sycamore Canyon is another great place to hike. Owner Meggan has often explored this area, both on horseback and on foot with her dog.
Meggan on her beloved horse Star exploring the Sycamore Canyon area a couple of years ago. May Star rest in peace. Photo courtesy of Meggan Kimberly
Some of its trails go down to the ocean, where you can get some beautiful aquatic views and the refreshing feel of the marine air and soothing sounds of crashing waves.
For more information, visit https://conejo.com/trails/sycamore-canyon-trail/
Rancho Sierra Vista National Park
This area has different trails to explore, ranging from easy to more challenging.
The Satwiwa Native American Indian Culture Center is part of the park.
For more information, visit https://www.nps.gov/samo/planyourvisit/rsvsatwiwa.htm
Chesesbro/Palo Comado Canyon
This is another trail to explore, located in Agoura Hills.
When hiking this trail you can experience views of the local cities down below, while having the feeling of being in nature. Two in one deal!
For more information, visit https://www.nps.gov/samo/planyourvisit/cheeseboropalocomado.htm
Solstice Canyon
This hiking area is located in Malibu, and the trails range from easy to challenging.
A popular spot to visit is the Solstice Waterfall. You can also see the remains of the Keller House and the Roberts Ranch house while hiking toward the waterfall.
For more information, visit https://www.nps.gov/samo/planyourvisit/solsticecanyon.htm
The Grotto
It’s located in the Santa Monica Mountains, and is about 2.5 miles. It's a one way trail, so you'll be going back along the same path you went in on.
At the end of the hike is the Grotto. It consists of a small waterfall that falls off of a rock into a small enclosed pool of water below. There are places to explore around the area before heading back.
For more information, visit https://www.hikespeak.com/trails/grotto-hike-malibu/ and https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/grotto-trail
