Jim Morrison Cave

Malibu, California

3.2/5
based on 6 reviews

Details

Distance

1.2 miles

Elevation Gain

600 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Derek Mathewson

Jim Morrison Cave is closed indefinitely.

Note: Jim Morrison Cave is closed indefinitely.

The bright colors of the Jim Morrison Cave are something to not be missed, and is appreciated by people of all ages. The cave also provides a beautiful outlook of the Malibu canyon, Malibu State Park and the Pacific Ocean. There is a ton of rock hopping and a great opportunities for awesome photographs.

...Deep in the heart of the Malibu canyon lies a cave that many are not familiar with. It's painted in bright pink, and graffitied in other exotic colors. Some in honor and tribute of Jim Morrison and the Doors, and others that's just scribble scrabble. Nonetheless, its a pretty cool spot if you're looking for an adventurous hike.

So the rumor has it that Jim Morrison would come here to escape and write lyrics and poetry. I couldn't find any significant proof that Jim Morrison was actually here, but it's still pretty inspiring. Also, supposedly he wrote many lyrics on the walls (which even if he did or didn't, you couldn't see because of all the graffiti) and even carved a little skull that still sits there today on the base of the cave.

Now on how to get there. I got lost my first time too, so don't feel bad. If you do, look at it as an exploring expedition! When you turn on Coral Canyon Rd. from the PCH, drive for about 5 miles till you get to the end of a dirt paved road. When you park, make sure to take the trail behind you (I posted a picture of the start of the trail) leading you to some sandstone rocks. After about 0.6 miles, you'll make a left following a trail into some brush leading you to a huge rock. Stay to the left of the rock and enter through a narrow opening called "The Birth Canal", in which you will most likely will have to crawl you're way in. Once in, enjoy the epicnous of the caves views, vibes and sceneries!

If you reach a cathedral-like look of sandstone rocks with a spiral of small rocks on the ground, then you've gone too far! (picture also posted)

Regardless of the myth behind this cave, it's something definitely worth checking out. let your imagination go wild and play some doors in remembrance of the 'Lizard King"! Happy Trails!!

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Romantic
Scenic
Wildlife

Jim Morrison Cave Reviews

Still a great hike with loads of small caves to explore. Perfect for children to find little nesting spots.

Please close this down. The cave is no longer and the area is closed.

This attraction is now gone and destroyed.

We took our kids here to see the cave and it turns out that the entrance to the cave has been sealed off and all the paint has been power washed off. We still had fun exploring and climbing around, and there are a few other nearby rock formations to explore.

My friends and I went on the hike today 3/29/16 and ran into the park ranger. He said that they'll be closing this hike in two weeks to remove all the graffiti.

It's a small hike but it is very beautiful. Lots of people go but it's very quiet. It's a great place to go and relax and forget about any stress you may have.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Backbone Trail via Corral Canyon

Hike the Backbone East from Latigo Canyon

Malibu Lake Overlook

Malibu Creek Rock Pool

Camp at Malibu Creek State Park

Rock Climbing in Malibu Creek