Added by Derek Mathewson
Munits is an epic spot if you're looking to go caving! Not many around here like this one. There's even another cave inside The Cave Munits. It's pretty dark and can be hard to see, so a flashlight is recommended. The trail to the cave will also lead you to Castle Peak.
Are you looking for a hike that offers trail running, scenic views, hiking, and CAVE exploring? This short, but exciting trail leads you on a short 0.8 mile hike to the Cave of Munits. When starting at the main trailhead, El Scorpion Park, take the wide paved dirt road all the way till you get to the large tree near the hills. The trail will then split three ways. Taking the trails to the left and middle will take you to the hills. So take the trail to right, and hike another approximate 0.2 miles. You'll see the entrance to the cave from a distance, so their shouldn't be any confusion.
Once inside the cave, it feels as if it's something you'd seen in a movie or through another outdoor enthusiasts photos. You'll definitely need a second to take it in and embrace it. With this spot being so close to the main roads and the city, it's hard to believe that there's not more people, graffiti and trash...but lets not jinx it! There are also small little caves in the area, so keep a lookout.
After you've done your exploring, you can then either go back the way you came, or you can scramble your way to the top of the cave where the trail continues to Castle Peak. Roundtrip loop from the start of the trail to castle peak is 2.1 miles. Remember, graffiti is perfectly acceptable in the built environment, but nature is not the place for your spray paint. please pack out what you pack in and respect the land!
Pack List
- Hiking boots/running shoes
- Camera
- Flashlight
- Water
- Good vibes
Please respect the places you find on The Outbound.
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures. Be aware of local regulations and don't damage these amazing places for the sake of a photograph. Learn More
Activities:
Chillin, Photography, Hiking
Skill Level:
Intermediate
Season:
Year Round
Trail Type:
Out-and-Back
Distance:
1.6 Miles
Elev. Gain:
750 Feet
Rating:
Features:
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Reviews
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5 months ago
Love this cave
I've done this hike a couple of times, and in the past, I have loved it! I went back recently though, and it seems like people have started to abuse it a lot. Broken glass littered the ground inside the cave, which made for some interesting climbing. Definitely wear closed toed shoes, and expect hundreds of pigeons that call the cave home!
Great Cave Hike
This was one of the best hikes I have been on this far in Southern California. Instead of taking the way advised here, we took a right turn at the first substantial tree, which took us up the side of the hill leading to the ridge. We climbed down essentially on top of the cave to get to it. Much longer trek than the mild 0.8 mile walk, it well worth it. There are lots of different paths to explore and different rocks to climb up and around on the ridge. Great views all around! The only bummer is that i did see a bit of trash on the trail, so if you see any help us all out and pick it up!
about 1 year ago
My First Cave Exploration!
I love the Cave of Munits! And I love how close this is to home. A must-do for every adventurer and explorer out there. After reaching the cave, you can keep going up to Castle Peak, which offers great 360 views of the valley. Be sure to use shoes with good traction!
over 1 year ago
on the edge of the valley
climb up through the cave to the top and make your way along the ridge line to castle peak. the valley below looked like somewhere in Ireland after el nino
over 1 year ago
Cave Munits Explore/Hike
I have hiked to this cave so many times and it is really easy to get to. The only certain one may have is that, to get into the cave you have to climb. So be prepared with some good shoes.
Added by Derek Mathewson
...My name is Derek Mathewson, I live in Oxnard California, and when I'm not at the gym or work, I'm usually out exploring. I have a passion for outdoor photography, cliff jumping, hiking, backpacking, camping and finding adventures others are yet to seek!
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