To explore and to see the beauty of nature at Circle X Ranch (Malibu (CA))

Malibu has awesome beach views to offer but hidden above the mountain ranges we can find the beauty of nature to explore and see places not many get a chance to see. Circle X Ranch is the center location to many trails that come together at the Santa Monica Mountain Range.





From Circle X Ranch, people will find 9 different trails to go an adventure on. One of my favorites happens to be the Grotto and the Sandstone Peak. For those who are new to this area, the trails offer amazing views and a diverse range of plants and animal species such as birds and lizards.
My experience at Circle X Ranch has always been different. Although the weather is typically not the issue, each time I return to Circle X Ranch I find new things to do or see.





First of all, for many that are not from the area, it can be a little difficult to find this place. However, coming from Oxnard, I always remember that when I am going south on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH 1), my turn is always at the street that is next to Neptune’s Net. After that turn on Yerbabuena, you have to take the road all the way up until you reach a sign that says Circle X Ranch. I always seem to find parking at this area which is great.


The main house at this location is like visitor’s center. They have restrooms and hiking information of the many trails available. This is also the place where people can refill their water bottles before starting their excursion.




 

Plan for the unexpected

Although it is hard to plan for something that we do not expect, from my experience, I would say that it is important to stay hydrated and have energy to finish the trail. A friend and I decided to check out one of the trails that was listed on the visitor’s information center. I do not remember the exact name of the trail but it was the same path as going towards the Grotto. The only unexpected thing I did not plan for was that the recent rains had created a higher level of water going through the hiking paths. Every time I had visited this area, for the most part the rain was not a big issue, but this time around I was happy to see that the water had basically brought back to life the trails. Unfortunately, we were unable to finish our excursion due to the lack of time and having our feet wet from crossing some of the paths filled with water. However, it was a nice getaway and nature seemed to looked nicer than it ever did.