The Malibu Grotto at Circle X Ranch

The Grotto is a maze of large volcanic boulders in a sheer, narrow stream-cut gorge formed from landslides. The West Fork of Arroyo Sequit flows through the caves and caverns of The Grotto, creating cascades and pools. It’s one of the most pleasant hideaways in the Santa Monica Mountains.

The typical Grotto hike is about 3 miles and starts out at Circle X Ranch. Unsurprisingly we will not do the typical hike -- we'll leave that one to the weekend masses. Instead we'll start out on the Canyon View Trail near the Sandstone Peak trailhead making the hike about 7 miles. There is a "upside down" 900' elevation gain.

Parking lot is on the north side of Yerba Buena Rd, 4.5 miles west of Mulholland or 6.4 miles north of PCH (1 mile past Circle X park office). Yerba Buena is very curvey so drive carfefully.

Recommended routes:

From points east of Westlake Village, exit 101 at Kanan and go south to Mulholland. Turn west (right) to Yerba Buena

From the 101:

Exit and turn south at CA-23 (Westlake Blvd) Continue to follow CA-23 south 5.2 mi. Continue straight toward Mulholland Hwy West After a couple more miles, turn right at stop sign and continue west on Mulholland Hwy 0.4 mi Turn right at Little Sycamore Canyon Rd 1.9 mi Slight left at Yerba Buena Rd 2.7 mi
Sandstone Peak Trailhead will be on right (There is a sign there. There are a couple turnouts along the way. If you are on a turnout without the sign you are in the wrong place)

Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Simi Valley Hiking Meetup Group and it's organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any Simi Valley Hiking Meetup events, you are releasing the Meetup Group and it's organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience