The Grotto
in the Santa Monica Mountains
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This 3.5-mile out-and-back hike visits a unique destination on the west side of the Santa Monica Mountains.
The trail starts at the main parking area for Circle X Ranch in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and descends a single track to a narrow bolder-filled canyon that houses an interesting grotto. Along the way, the trail passes in and out of shade as it follows a small creek down the mountain. In the spring the wildflowers are plentiful (and the warm weather makes it a great time to spash around in the grotto).
The trail beneath Circle X Ranch and Exchange Peak
The trail comes to a sudden end as the creek, the West Fork of the Arroyo Sequit, passes through and beneath large rocks. Continue downstream, passing over the rocks. The water can be seen between the rocks some ten feet below. There are a couple openings where you can get down between the rocks and explore the grotto. Continuing over the rocks, the creek exits the rocks, marking the end of the hike. At the base of the grotto, the water tumbles off a rock like a shower head, dropping twelve feet into an enclosed pool. Here a ring of shallow water around a tall rock creates a tube-like semi-circular cave.
The Grotto
The grotto is a great spot for young and old to explore. The back of the grotto is dark and a bit mysterious and Gollum could easily reside here.
After enjoying the grotto, return along the same trail. This is one of those backwards hikes where you do the uphill hiking on the way out, so you will now be hiking up the 500 feet in elevation between the grotto on the trailhead. Dogs are permitted along the trail, but not allowed over the last 1/8 mile through the grotto itself. No fee or permit is required, so get out and enjoy!
To get to the trailhead: Take the PCH to the far west end of Malibu. Make a right on Yerba Buena Road (just past Neptune’s Net Restaurant) and drive up Yerba Buena for 5.5 miles until you arrive at the Circle X Ranch ranger station. Park here and follow the signs to the trailhead.
Click here to view the Circle X Ranch Trail Map courtesy of NPS
Use the map below to create your own directions:
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Nearby Trails
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This 6-mile loop summits the tallest peak in the Santa Monica Mountains. |
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This 1-mile addition to the Sandstone Peak loop adds extra views to the hike (and some great views). |
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More trails in the Santa Monica Mountains Explore beyond Circle X Ranch to other destinations in the range. |
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