Spooky Story Time at the Charles Manson Family Cave 👻

🎶It’s creepy and it’s spooky🎶
Imagine it's 1969, you're 13 years old and going horseback riding at Spahn ranch. You arrive and notice the owner and ranch hands are nowhere to be seen. Instead, you are greeted by a charming young man - the notorious Charles Manson! He saddles you up and off you go through the hills, and the trails, and Charles’ hippie commune. That’s my true story and I’ll tell you more at the family cave.

I want to hear your spooky stories too.

The Hike
My hikes are slow paced (1.5-2 mph) and the end time is approximate only. We take breaks, we explore, and we don't leave anyone behind. If this hike is not what you are looking for, please find another that best suits your needs. Thank you.

This is a moderate 3.75-mile loop hike with an elevation gain of about 692'.

• Click here to view the All Trails map

Meet me at the south side of Rocky Peak Road, along the Santa Susana Pass, at 3:00pm. We will start promptly at 3:10pm. Please give yourself ample time to arrive and find parking.

Our spooky hike begins with a short walk down the Santa Susana Pass Road to the trail. We will ascend an average distance with some ups and downs before descending into the canyon and to the family cave. As we get closer to the cave, we may find some interesting artifacts that may have been put there by Manson himself.

We will take a break and share our spooky stories when we reach the family cave located in a creek bed near the pass road. Spahn Ranch itself is overgrown and not easy to walk through but I will point out where it's located which is not far from the cave.

Details

• High winds, rain, hot weather, or fire will cancel this hike
• Sunset: 6:09pm. Last light: 6:33pm
• Parking: Free
• Terrain: single track, rocky ground
• Difficulty: Fit beginner, intermediate
• Restrooms: no
• Dogs: Yes, only if leashed
• Known Dangers: slip and fall, rattlesnakes, poison oak

Essentials

• Bring 2 liters of water, flashlights, snacks, electrolytes
• Bring your hiking poles if needed.
• Wear good hiking boots/shoes, sunscreen, hat
• Bring a jacket for cooler weather
• Bug spray
• Ventura County SARS 10 Essentials

Directions

• Google Coordinates: 34.267166,-118.634895
• Click here to view the Google Map
• From the 118 freeway, take the Rocky Peak Road exit between Simi and Chatsworth. Park on the SOUTH end of the road or along the street road.

DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY:

1. You must RSVP to attend this event, no exceptions.
2. The PM Hiker organizers are not trained leaders and do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips.
3. If you sign up for any event, you are releasing the PM Hiker organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries.
4. Hiking and other outdoor events can be dangerous, and accidents can happen.
5. Per Meetup rules, you are responsible for your own safety and well-being. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience. You take full responsibility for your own actions.
6. These rules apply to any guests you may invite.