After a day of adventuring at the Cave of Munits with Natasha, we decided to finish up our day by visiting yet another cave. Vanalden Cave is only about 12 miles away so it was the perfect candidate. This one is a big sandstone cave that is at least 20 ft tall and about 50 ft deep. None of us have been here before so we were excited to explore this off-the-beaten-path cave that not too many people know about.
STATS:
Where:
Vanalden Cave Trailhead – 3630-3818 Vanalden Ave, Tarzana, CA 91356
Coordinates: 34°08’04.8″N 118°33’46.9″W
Actual Cave: 34°07’56.0″N 118°33’46.2″W
Parking:
There is street parking.
Fees:
Free
Restrooms:
There are no restrooms.
Distance:
0.5 miles R.T.
Elevation:
100 ft
Level:
Easy
Estimated Completion Time:
30 minutes
Ideal Weather:
Dryer days. The trail can get a little slippery when wet.
Ideal Time:
Anytime before dark. The trail and cave are mostly shaded so it won’t get too warm.
Dog-friendly:
You can bring your pups here.
THE ADVENTURE:
The trailhead for Vanalden Cave is located at the dead-end of Vanalden Avenue in Tarzana. After we parked Butternut, our jeep, on the side of the street, we headed to the trailhead that is marked by a big tree and the warning signs. The trail is particularly beautiful this time of the year. It was near sunset as well so we got this soft, almost golden light pouring over the thick vegetation on the sides of the trail. The bushes were quite dense at certain parts of the trail and you had to push your way through. The only sad thing was we found trash all over the trails. So if you’re hiking this, PLEASE, TAKE YOUR TRASH OUT WITH YOU!
After about 800 ft of a short incline, there is a small, unmarked dirt trail on your left-hand side. This is where you want to go. Make sure you pay attention. We almost missed it when we went. If you go straight, it will take you to Vanalden Vista, where you’ll have a panoramic amphitheater-like view of the Santa Monica Mountains. Once you turn left onto the small but well-worn trail, you’ll cross over a big oak tree in the middle of the trail.
As you follow this dirt trail, it descends to a large oak trail that marked another trail split. If you go right here, this trail will take you to the top of the cave. If you go lower to drop into the ravine, you’ll hike right to the bottom of Vanalden Cave. We went lower instead.
As we approached the cave, the contrast between green grass and moss against the colorful graffiti became quite interesting. The cave looks a lot bigger as we got closer. There were holes running vertically along the side of the hills. They look like climbing holds for rock climbers. Unless you are experienced, don’t attempt it. When we were there, there was a guy that tried to climb it. He luckily climbed back down when he realized it was not as easy as it looked.
From far away, the cave’s entrance looks like a giant arch that opens up to an almost pitch-black room. However, once you get closer and go inside, the ceiling has big skylights that let tons of light in. The cave’s ceiling is covered with green moss. It gives Vanalden Cave a mystical feel. There are graffiti and carvings all over the walls inside and outside the cave. Some of the carvings were pretty interesting. Once you’re done exploring the inside of the cave, there are trails on both sides of it that would take you to the top of the cave. Be careful if you’re going up here. The trail is a little narrow, especially if you’re walking in between the skylights.
You can spend as much or as little time as you want here. Once you’re done, you can either go back to the car or go to the Vanalden Vista for a longer hike. It was getting dark so we headed back to the car. If you’re up for more adventures, as we mentioned above, Cave of Munits is right around the corner. Another awesome cave, if you’re willing to drive, is Wind Caves in Anza Borrego. Don’t forget to explore our blogs for more hiking adventures in California.
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RECOMMEND GEAR:
Don’t forget to check out our Recommended Gear section as well.
• Hiking shoes
It’s an easier trail so you can get away with regular closed-toe shoes. However, we recommend wearing hiking shoes for the slippery part or if you want to explore the cave. Vy’s shoes are North Face HedgeHog GTX. Dustin’s shoes are Coleman Tasman Hiking Shoe.
• Snacks or lunch
It is a short hike so you won’t need these. However, it’s a perfect picnic spot.
• Jacket
Depends on the season, it might get cold up there. We love our packable Patagonia Puff Jackets! You can get Vy’s version here, and Dustin’s version here.
• Sunscreen:
Always good to wear sunscreen. We use eco-friendly, reef-safe sunscreen, All Good Organic Sunscreen Butter – Zinc Oxide – Coral Reef Safe and All Good Sport Sunscreen Lotion – Coral Reef Safe (3 oz)(2-Pack) or Stream2Sea SPF 30 Reef Safe Sport Tinted Sunscreen.
• Water
Always bring water with you on a hike. Vy uses the Camelback L.U.X.E. Dustin uses the Clik Small pack (sadly Clik is no longer around)
CAMERA GEAR:
• Camera:
Sony a7 III
Gopro Hero 7 Black
• Lenses:
Sony 24 -70mm f/2.8 Carl Zeiss Vario Sonnar T Zoom Lens
• Accessories:
GoPro The Handler Floating Hand Grip – Official GoPro Mount
Aluminum GoPro protection frame
