When searching for amenities available around a college campus, you might not think of creepy subterranean landscapes. But that is exactly what you’ll find on the campus of the University of California Santa Cruz. Interchangeably called the Porter or Empire Caves, these caves in Santa Cruz are a trio of caverns located near the university’s Porter College, off Empire Grade Road - hence the name. If you enjoy eerie, dark, and tight spaces to explore, we think you’re in for a (weird) treat. Want to know more? Read on to learn more about these Santa Cruz caves.
The history of the caves in Santa Cruz is truly unique, so be sure to take some time to read the signage outside before setting off on your adventure.
The entrance to these Santa Cruz caves is set amidst beautiful redwood trees that are specific to Northern California It’s also just a short hike to get there, and along the way, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Monterey Bay in the distance.
The adventure—deemed suitable for beginners—starts with a climb through a stone opening, then down a ladder into the dark, cool, area below.
If you’re claustrophobic, your exploration may end here! If not, we suggest that you bring a headlamp, flashlight, and reflective clothing so you can see your fellow cavers, or at the minimum, your reflection in the dark.
Along each of the low-clearance and narrow Porter caves, you’ll encounter fascinating Karstified marble and distinctive crevices, each more unique than the last.
Because these Santa Cruz caves are subterranean, it’s important to be aware of current and recent weather patterns.The dry months (summer and fall) are best, but regardless, never after a heavy rain, as the caves become quite muddy and can be susceptible to flooding.
One of the things that makes these caves in Santa Cruz so fascinating is that they are home to two rare and very endangered species (due to environmental factors and human interference).
If you're lucky, you might spot the Dollof Cave Spider. Although native to the Golden State, is considered to be one of the rarest spiders in all of North America.Look down by your feet and you might catch a glimpse of The Empire Cave Pseudoscorpion. This creature is believed to live nowhere else on earth.
Want to visit here and have a real spooky adventure? Then come to the caves right before sunset when the onslaught of darkness offers an entirely different perspective.
Thanks to YouTuber Devin's Adventures, you can see the actual climb down into and through Porter Caves!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEqDr0UOiw8
If you have an affection for exploring dark, tight passages several feet below the earth, we think the Porter Caves in Santa Cruz are sure to satisfy you!
Have you been to these Santa Cruz caves? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences in the following comments section. And, if you'd like to explore some more, take a look at these other caves in Northern California worth checking out, as well. We also suggest checking out Airbnb Experiences to learn about more unique adventures in Santa Cruz and Northern California.
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