Saturday January 30, 2010
Malibu, California
Glorious Sunshine
Malibu's beautiful beaches are known worldwide but as most Angelinos know, Malibu also has fabulous hiking trails. Before I moved to Japan, I used to hike the trails at least twice a week. There are so many to choose from with views of the mountains and also the coastline. As I have not exercised at all since I've been back, so I decided to do a leg of the infamous Backbone Trail. The Backbone trail starts at Will Rogers State Park in Pacific Palisades and continues along the Santa Monica Mountains to Point Magu. It is about 70 miles long. A leg of the trail starts near by me and takes one through the valleys with a view of the Escondido Waterfall. Waterfalls are rare in the LA Area, after all, it is a desert. But after the rains, and if lucky and willing to do a hike, one can enjoy a view of a waterfall in Los Angeles.
I did the 5 mile loop of the backbone trail from the parking lot at Kanan Dume Road on a glorious Saturday morning. In addition to the waterfall, I was hoping to get a good photo of the spectacular full moon during the sunrise. Unfortunately, I woke up too late for that and was able to only get a so-so photo from the park where I took the dogs for a walk prior to my hiking adventure.
If you look carefully, you will see a faint view of the full moon.
Since the dogs were still full of energy even after a walk around the park, I took them to Leo Carrillo Beach so they can run around and chase the birds - Below are pelicans skimming the water
After 30 minutes of running around, Skipper was exhausted. Yuki was not as tired but it was time to go back so I can go on my hike.
The beginning of the hike started at 930am.
I was amazed how quiet, green and lush the trail was.
With great views of the interesting rock formations of the Santa Monica mountains.
Wild mushrooms were growing everywhere around the trail.
And beautiful native plants were in bloom
I thought I had the trail to myself until a handsome dog appeared with his owners following him a few minutes behind.
I made my first creek crossing where the creek was filled with water which is a good sign that the "waterfall" has water.
And another creek crossing
And then, about one hour into the hike, I saw it - Escondido Waterfalls. As you can see, it is a bit puny, but it is a rare site in Southern California.
Continuing along the trail, I soon reached the end point – the 2.5 mile marker- and turned around and walked back to my car.
Felt great after the hike but must remind myself to take water next time. Although it is not strenuous and dangerous, it can get hot in the mountains and that with the dry air does make one thirsty. And on Sunday, my friend Tara and I will be doing the Escondido Waterfall hike, where we actually hike to the bottom of the falls. Stay tuned!