Don’t Make This Mistake on the Vanalden Cave Hike in Tarzana, Los Angeles
If you’re planning a hike to the Vanalden Cave in Tarzana, don’t make the same mistake I did—go prepared!
Exploring the Vanalden Cave has been on my Los Angeles bucket list for a long time. Tucked away in the Santa Monica Mountains, this unique sandstone cave is one of the hidden gems of Tarzana, perfect for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone craving an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
I was beyond excited to finally head out and see it for myself. I had my hiking shoes laced up, my water bottle filled, and my phone charged for some epic video. But here’s where I went wrong: I didn’t research the trail thoroughly enough. I thought I could just wing it with a general idea of where to go. Big mistake.
Somewhere along the way, I veered off the correct path, got turned around, and ended up wandering aimlessly through the different trails. After a while of trying to reorient myself (and failing), I had to make the tough call to turn back and head to my car—without ever seeing the cave.
Lesson learned.
But this story isn’t over! I’m already planning my return trip, and this time I’ll be better prepared. I’ve studied maps, watched YouTube videos, and read posts from fellow hikers. I won’t let a little detour stop me from seeing this incredible natural wonder.
If you’re planning your own Tarzana hiking adventure, here are a few quick tips:
- Research the trail ahead of time—look for recent hiking reports or GPS coordinates.
- Download an offline map app.
- Start early, especially in warmer months, since there’s not much shade.
- Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.