Details
Distance
2.95 miles
Elevation Gain
1217 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
This is a new adventure! Be the first to share your experience.
Join a supporting community of travelers and adventurers sharing their photos and local insights.
Added by Outbound
The trail from Pepperdine University to Cross, Malibu is a moderate difficulty hike, spanning approximately 2.95 miles. The trail begins at the university campus, leading hikers through a variety of landscapes. The first section of the trail is a steady uphill climb, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The trail then transitions into a more rugged terrain, with a series of switchbacks leading to the top of the Malibu hills. Here, hikers will find the iconic Malibu Cross, a local landmark. The trail also passes by a small creek, which can be a refreshing spot to rest during the warmer months. Hikers should wear sturdy shoes due to the rocky terrain and bring plenty of water, especially during the summer. The trail is open year-round, but the best time to hike is during the spring or fall when the weather is milder. Despite its moderate difficulty, the trail offers a rewarding hike with diverse landscapes and stunning views.
Download Outbound mobile app
Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.
Get the appFeatures
Hiking
Scenic
Wildflowers
Pepperdine University to Cross Reviews
Have you done this adventure? Be the first to leave a review!
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
The Malibu Lagoon State Beach
The Malibu Lagoon State Beach is a loop trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near Malibu, California.
Photograph the Iconic Malibu Pier
Less than a mile South from the small town center, Malibu Pier stretches out into the Pacific. The Pier has been in Malibu since 1905 and though much of Malibu has been built up around it, it has remained quite similar to when it was first constructed. You can either pay for parking right at the entrance to the pier or find free parking along PCH.Malibu as a whole is a very photogenic beach tow...
Surf Malibu Point
Malibu point is an iconic surf spot located in Malibu, California. It's a very popular summer time spot due to the exposure to south swells. The majority of people longboard this surf spot. It's a very iconic wave with lots of history!
The wave itself is a long right-hand point break that is relatively forgiving.
Rising Sun Trail, Solstice Canyon
To reach the trail, head up the stairs from the parking lot, giving glimpses of the coast. In 0.1 miles, after crossing a paved road, turn right onto Rising Sun.
For an easier hike through the canyon, take Solstice Canyon Trail, which is a mix of paved road and fire road, although likely to have more people than Rising Sun.
Camp at Malibu Creek State Park
Malibu Creek State Park boasts over 8,000 acres of oak woodlands, grassy hills, dramatic peaks and serene meadows. It's an outdoor lover's paradise and only a short drive north from most of Los Angeles. Before it was a park, the land was owned by 20th Century Fox Studios and used in productions like MASH, Planet of the Apes and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.The campground is well-maintai...
Jim Morrison Cave
Note: Jim Morrison Cave is closed indefinitely.
The bright colors of the Jim Morrison Cave are something to not be missed, and is appreciated by people of all ages. The cave also provides a beautiful outlook of the Malibu canyon, Malibu State Park and the Pacific Ocean. There is a ton of rock hopping and a great opportunities for awesome photographs.
...Deep in the heart of the Malibu canyon...
Discover
Community
© 2026 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy