Vanalden Cave – Owen Brown Road loop from LA County Open Space

If you're looking for an easy mountain biking route with a unique landmark and great views in the Santa Monica Mountains, the Vanalden Cave – Owen Brown Road loop from LA County Open Space is a solid choice. This 7.8-mile (12.6 km) mountain biking route is rated easy, with 931 feet (284 metres) of climbing, and you can expect to complete it in about 1 hour and 6 minutes. It's perfect for a quick, rewarding ride that offers a taste of the region's natural beauty and a cool geological feature.

What to expect on Vanalden Cave – Owen Brown Road loop from LA County Open Space

The trail offers a journey through varied terrain, starting with a fire road that can get rocky on ascents, then narrowing into dirt tracks and ravines. You'll ride through groves of coast live oak and cottonwoods, providing welcome shade, while open hillsides are dotted with indigenous plants like coyote brush. The highlight is undoubtedly the Vanalden Cave, a large sandstone formation with natural skylights, offering a fascinating stop before you continue to potentially expansive views of the Santa Monica Mountains and the San Fernando Valley. While generally easy, expect some uneven sections and a few steep inclines that can be slippery after rain, making it a good option for riders comfortable with varied surfaces.

Planning your visit

Parking for this mountain biking route is conveniently available with free street parking at the end of Vanalden Avenue in Tarzana. It's always a good idea to check current trail conditions before you head out, especially after any rainfall, as sections can become slick. This loop is a great option for a morning or afternoon ride when you want to explore the LA County Open Space without committing to an all-day epic.

Trail details

• Distance: 7.8 miles (12.6 km)
• Elevation gain: 931 feet (284 metres)
• Difficulty: easy
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 6 minutes