Los Padres National Forest

A view of the Los Padres National Forest. The Los Padres National Forest features mountains, streams, rivers and beaches. Weather can vary throughout the forest and altitude ranges from sea level on the Monterey Ranger District, to almost 9,000 feet on the Mt. Pinos Ranger District.

Important Information

Accessible Recreation Opportunities

A continuing goal of the Los Padres National Forest is to make the recreational opportunities accessible to persons with disabilities. Although many of these areas already have wheelchair-accessible campsites, restrooms and trails, we are continuing to make more sites accessible.

Accessible Sites

The Forest Service has adopted the universal design approach to site accessibility which takes into consideration the differing physical capabilities of visitors. Not all locations/facilities are 100% accessible because the forest is continually adding new accessible sites. Please call ahead to the Ranger District for more information.

View current accessible sites by Ranger District.

Hodgdon Meadow Campground

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Rancho Nuevo Campground Campground

List of Campsites

Rancho Nuevo Campground is a primitive campground with 2 sites on a grassy canyon bottom, 4-wheel drive access only. Road is subject to close in the winter.

Little Falls Facility

Little Falls is within Santa Lucia Wilderness.

Buckhorn Road Facility

Take Camuesa Road to the Buckhorn Road which leads to the top of Little Pine Mountain. Camuesa/Buckhorn Roads can be accessed from Upper Oso Campground parking lot 6 miles off Paradise Road. Camuesa Road is about 12 miles long. Approximately 4 miles up the Camuesa Road, the Buckhorn forks off to the north for 8 miles.

Gifford Trailhead Facility

The site is located on Hwy #166 26 miles east of Santa Maria.

This trail is currently within the Front Fire Closure area. No access. Trail is expected to reopen in early 2019.

Gifford Trailhead has one large parking area and serving hikers, equestrians. No motorized use allowed.

The Gifford trail (18E12) 2.2 miles has beautiful scenic views.

Hitching posts. Picnicking 1 table. Stock trailer parking.

Difficulty level : Easy

The trailhead is open all year.

Sulphur Springs Facility

Located in the Figueroa Mountain area. This is a very steep trail and takes you from Cedros Saddle, north to Manzana Creek and the San Rafael Wilderness. The trail drops 2,100 feet in elevation as it passes through oak woodlands and areas of pine. There is a spring about mid-way from Cedros Saddle to Manzana Creek. From Cedros Saddle, the trail also goes south two miles to Zaca Lake, a privately-owned lake and resort where refreshments may be obtained.

San Rafael Wilderness Facility

San Rafael Wilderness hikes are trails located in or near the San Rafael Wilderness area. This area is near Figueroa Mountain, to the north and east. Many of these hikes make good backpack trips, and are near the Manzana River.

Chula Vista Trailhead Facility

This trailhead is located at the end of Mt. Pinos Highway at an elevation of 8,360 ft. The trailhead provides non-vehicle access to the Mt Pinos Summit Botanical Area, Mt Pinos Condor Observation Site, the Chumash Wilderness, and the East end of the Tumamait Trail (21W03). Snowfall in winter offers opportunities for snow sports.

To get to the Tumamait Trail and the Condor Observation Site, take Forest Service Road 9N24 from the Southwest end of the Chula Vista Parking Lot for 2 miles. Difficulty: moderate.

Chula Vista Campground is approximately 500’ from the Northeast end of the Chula Vista Parking Lot. Additional wilderness campgrounds can be accessed via the Tumamait Trail.

17E10- Big Rocks Facility

Big Rocks- 17E10

Blue diamond. More difficult. Open to Motorcycles/ATVS / 4WD.

The trail is primarily used by 4x4s and ATVs. It is located on the main ridge top and intersects with the Jack Springs route. 4 Miles

Tin House - 2E04 Facility

2E05 unmaintained. Mt. Manuel trail to Tin House

Potrero John - 23W06 Facility

Potrero John Trail (23W06) WILDERNESS

Length: 1.6 miles

Difficulty: easy

Take Highway 33 north of Ojai to the trailhead at mile marker 32.10. The trail is on the right hand side of the highway. This trail provides a beautiful day hike following a stream channel into the Sespe Wilderness. It has running water most of the year. The trail ends at Potrero John Camp, but it can be fun to explore the drainage beyond the camp.

Willow Springs Trailhead Facility

Willow Springs Trailhead. Located in the Figueroa Mountain area. This is a two mile connector between the Catway Road and lower Davy Brown Trail.

Cedar Creek / Fishbowl Loop - 22W10 Facility

Open in Spring/Summer/Fall and is within the Winter seasonal closure between December 1^st and April 30^th

Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

Length: 14 mile loop trail for backpacking or shorter day hikes

SESPE WILDERNESS - More information on the Sespe Wilderness: www.wilderness.net

Maps: Tom Harrison Sespe Wilderness Map

Bring water!

This is a loop trail in the Sespe Wilderness. Two trailheads exist for this loop. The first trailhead is located right off the Grade Valley Road (FS 7N03) approximately five miles south of Lockwood Valley Road.

The second trailhead is located approximately seven miles south of Lockwood Valley Road along the Thorn Meadows Road (FS 7N03C). A beautiful trail located in the Sespe Wilderness, the trailhead is located on Thorn Medow Road (7N03B) a short side road off Mutah OHV Road (7N03.2). The Cedar Creek Trail connects Thorn Medow Road (7N03B) and the GeneMarshall-Piedra Blanca Trail (22W03). This trail has numerous stands of Incense Cedar trees along the upper portion. Numerous large Sugar Pine and Jeffery Pines also grow along the canyon, especially at Cedar Creek Trail Camp. The Cedar Creek Trail 21W10 climbs the canyon before descending to Fishbowls Camp at the north fork of Piru Creek, the trail then completes at Pine Mountain Lodge Camp.

West Tumamait Trailhead - 21W03 Facility

Tumamait Trail (21W03)

Difficulty: moderate to difficult

Length: 4.58 miles

CHUMASH WILDERNESS - More information on the Chumash Wilderness: www.wilderness.net

Maps: 7.5 minute USGS topographic maps (Sawmill Mountain)

The West Tumamait Trailhead (elev. 8080 ft.) is located along Cerro Noroeste Road near the summit of Cerro Noroeste east of Camp Alto Campground. Trailhead parking is along the shoulder of the road. There are no facilities at the trailhead and overnight camping is not allowed. Campo Alto Campground, with 19 individual sites, is located 0.5 miles away at the end of Cerro Noroeste Road. The Mesa Springs Trail 22W21 and Northfork Trail 22W02 may be accessed via the Tumamait Trail.

Terrace Creek - 3E22 Facility

Highway 1 to Big Sur Station

Mt. Pinos Ranger District Facility

Mt. Pinos Ranger District

Cozy Dell - 23W26 Facility

Cozy Dell Trail (23W26)

Length: 1.9 miles

Difficulty: moderate

The trailhead is located 3.3 miles north of Ojai and .1 mile south of Friends' Ranch Packing House. Do not park in the parking lot of the packing house. The trail ends at Cozy Dell Creek, where it ties into the Foothill Trail and Cozy Dell Road. From this junction, a loop can be made by following the Foothill Trail and then continuing back along the Ojai Fuel Break Road.

There are no camps or water along the way. Along this trail, large oak trees provide plenty of shade and there are spectacular views of the Ojai Valley.

Santa Lucia - 6E01 Facility

Junipero Serra Peak Trail/Indians to Arroyo Seco

16E16- Mare Springs Facility

Mare Spring. 16E16.

Blue Diamond. More difficult. Open to Motorcycles and ATV’s Only.

This is an excellent trail for the intermediate to advance rider. The trail connects to the Burnout trail on both ends and provides a challenging and scenic ride. 3.2 miles.

Horse Pasture - 4E05 Facility

Marble Peak Trail to Tassajara Road

South Fork - 3E09 Facility

Strawberry Valley to Rainbow Camp

Chumash Wilderness Facility

Chumash Wilderness 38,150 acres was established 1992 by the Los Padres Condor Range and River Protection Act. The Chumash Wilderness is situated in the Mt. Pinos Ranger District and is also near the town of Frazier Park. It includes Mt. Pinos which was an integral part of Chumash life and is still extremely important to the local Chumash residents. The vegetation is mainly pine forests in the northern portion and a combination of badlands and chaparral in the south. Hiking and camping are among the many recreational opportunities. Snow in the winter provides opportunities for winter recreation.

Black Cone - 3E14 Facility

Not recommended

Lower Oso Day Use Picnic Area Facility

The Lower Oso Day Use Pinci Area is located off Paradise Road just across the first Santa Ynez River crossing ford.

Lower Oso Day Use Area includes 28 sites, each with a picnic table, pedestal grill and parking spur. There are three flush toilet buildings for a total of eight seats. The Santa Ynez River can be accessed from the site.

Drinking water is available. There is no electricity.

Lower Oso Day Use Area is open all year. However, during high river flows Paradise Road is closed to motorized traffic.

Area amenities: Picnic tables, BBQs, Parking, trash, hiking trails, water play, flush toilets, drinking water.

Garcia Wilderness Facility

Garcia Wilderness 14,100 acres was established 1992 by the Los Padres Condor Range and River Protection Act.

The Garcia Wilderness area offers an abundance of panoramic views, solitude and a variety of lush wildflowers in springtime. Located on the Santa Lucia Ranger District, the terrain ranges from chaparral covered mountains to grasslands and abundant creekside vegetation. There are several trails leading into the area. Two hiking trails cut through the wilderness and there are 3 designated campsites.

Potrero Seco Facility

Potrero Seco Rd is closed. Call the Ojai Ranger District at 805-646-4348 for more information.

16E04- Queen Bee Facility

Queen Bee. 16E04.

Blue Diamond. More Difficult. Open to Motorcycles and ATV’s only.

This trail begins and ends at Queen Bee Road and is best suited for intermediate riders. 1.5 Miles.

16E08- Las Chiches Facility

Las Chiches Cut Off . 16E08.

Blue Diamond. More Difficult. Open to Motorcycles/ATVS / 4WD.

From the intersection of Five Points, the first section is open to all trail vehicle types, which has several steep sections that are best suited for intermediate to advanced riders. This route follows ridge tops and provides the rider with outstanding vistas of the valleys below. The last mile intersects with Las Chiches Cutoff motorcycle trail, and ends at Pozo Summit Road, where it connects to Pine Mountain trail. 6 miles.

East Tumamait Trailhead - 21W03 Facility

The East Tumamait Trailhead (elev. 8800 ft.) is located on the top of Mt. Pinos at the west end of Forest Service Road 9N24. Public vehicle access is prohibited over this road. Trailhead parking is located 2.0 miles away to the east at the Chula Vista paved parking lot at the end of Mt. Pinos Highway. Forest Road 9N24 begins at the southwest edge of this parking lot. There is one vault toilet at the trailhead. The Mt. Pinos Condor Observation Site is also located at the trailhead. The Mesa Springs Trail 22W21 and Northfork Trail 22W02 may be accessed via the Tumamait Trail.

Difficulty: moderate to difficult

Length: 4.58 miles

MT. PINOS BOTANICAL AREA & CHUMASH WILDERNESS - More information on the Chumash Wilderness: www.wilderness.net

Maps: 7.5 minute USGS topographic maps (Sawmill Mountain)

Leave No Trace Backpacking Principles: http://lnt.org/learn/7-principles

Open Spring/Summer/Fall; Mt. Pinos Highway subject to snow closures and tire chain requirements during the winter.

McMenemy Facility

This trail connects the San Ysidro and Cold Springs Trails. Mostly chaparral, with a eucalyptus grove near the San Ysidro Creek crossing. Nice views at the higher portions of the trail.

Munch Canyon Facility

Located in the Figueroa Mountain area. This trail was originally constructed as a mining access road. Evidence of old mine excavations can be found along the route. This trail connects Sunset Valley to the Davy Brown Trail in Fir Canyon. A short spur connects to the East Pinery Road.

Los Padres Dam-Big Pines - 1E02 - Facility

(via Blue Rock Ridge Trail)

Matilija Wilderness Facility

Wilderness

Davy Brown Trailhead Facility

The Davy Brown Trailhead is located approximately 13 miles from the time one turns onto Figueroa Mountain Road off of Highway 154. It is one mile past the Figueroa Campground on the left hand side of the road. The large dirt turnout parking area accommodates between 6 and 8 vehicles. The Davy Brown Trailhead leads to various connecting trails, including Munch Canyon Trail.

18E05- La Panza-Bypass Facility

La Panza - Bypass. 18E05. Blue Diamond. More difficult. Open to Motorcycles and ATV’s Only.

This trail is an easy ride for intermediate and advanced riders and goes from Queen bee summit to Burnout trail. 1.5 Miles

Ojai Ranger District Facility

The Ojai area includes the Matilija Wilderness and part of the Sespe Wilderness. The Sespe Creek Wild and Scenic River crosses this area.

Cone Peak Lookout - 4E12 Facility

Cone Peak Road to lookout at elevation of 5155 feet

Mount Manuel - 2E06 Facility

Little Sur Trail to Big Sur State Park

Upper OsoTrailhead Facility

The site is located on the Camuesa Road, 1 mile from Paradise Road.

Upper Oso Trailhead is a paved and located just past Upper Oso Campground. The trailhead has three separate parking areas and serving hikers, equestrians, and OHV trail uses. The facility has drinking water, flush toilets, trash, and picnic tables.

There are 20 single vehicle spaces available for trailhead parking and extended spaces for truck-trailer parking for off-highway vehicles (OHV's). There are an additional 20 spaces for parking close to the equestrian facilities. There is a horse trough at the trailhead.

The Santa Cruz trail (27W09) provides access to the San Rafael Wilderness. The Camuesa OHV route (5N15) provides motorcycle and ATV riding opportunities on the Camuesa and Buckhorn (9N11) OHV routes.

The trailhead is open all year. However, during high river flows Paradise Road is closed to motorized traffic.

**As of November 1, 2016, the Upper Oso Trailhead Parking Area will no longer be an Adventure Pass recreation site. Iinteragency passes will not be accepted.

This trailhead parking area will be managed by the Parks Management for the Forest Service. $10 per vehicle or you can purchase and use the Parks Management Annual Day Use Pass for $50. Pass can be purchased from the PMC at www.campone.com or by calling 805-434-1996 or purchased from the campground hosts at Paradise Campground, Upper Oso Campground or Sage Hill Campground.

Willow Creek - 5E08 Facility

Willow Creek Road

Horseshoe Springs Campground Campground

List of Campsites

Nestled in large grove of oaks. Campground provides solitude for those seeking that type of experience.

Johnston Ridge - 20W12 Facility

Johnson Ridge Trail (20W12)

WILDERNESS

Length: 9.5 miles

Difficulty: northern section moderate, southern section difficult

The trailhead is near Mutau Flat, located on the Mt. Pinos Ranger District. After a rolling three miles, the trail drops steeply into Hot Springs Canyon. There is no water and little shade along the first seven miles of the trail.

After 8.5 mile from the trailhead, a side trail leads into Hot Springs Creek. At .6 miles further, there is another camp and .4 mile further is the Sespe River Trail (20W13). Prior to the June 1992 wilderness legislation, this was a popular motorcycle trail. It is now open only to horseback riders and hikers.

16E21- Burnout Facility

Burnout . 16E21.

Black Diamond. Most difficult. Open to Motorcycles and ATV’s Only.

This lengthy trail offers a wide variety of trail experiences for the intermediate and advanced riders. It traverses over ridge tops with nice vistas as well as oak and grass covered valleys. It also connects with Mare Springs trail, La Panza Bypass, Red Hill Road, and Navajo Road. Only street legal motorcycles are allowed on the Red Hill and Navajo Roads. 10 miles.

Arroyo Seco Group Campground Campground

List of Campsites

Arroyo Seco Campground is a semi-rustic, but developed facility in California’s westernmost national forest. It offers a great escape from bustling city life, into the mountain air and provides access to a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities.

There is one group site at this campground and it is available by reservation only for $125.00 per night. This site can accommodate up to 50 people maximum. A total of 10 vehicles are included with the group rate; additional vehicles will cost $10.00 per vehicle. Tents only in group site.

15E11- Garcia Ridge Facility

Garcia Ridge. 15E11.

Blue Diamond. More difficult. Open to Motorcycles/ ATVS/4WD.

This ridge top route starts at Hi Mountain and Pozo/Arroyo Grande Road intersection and dead-ends at the Garcia Wilderness Boundary. This intermediate route is open to all OHV riders. 4 miles.

Gamboa-Stone Ridge - 4E11 Facility

Coast Ridge Trail to Vincente Flat

Big Falls Trailhead Facility

Big Falls Trail takes you into one of San Luis Obispo's most striking natural areas. Two dramatic waterfall settings are hidden within this amazing wooded canyon.

Marble Peak - 4E07 Facility

Arroyo Seco River to Coast Ridge Road

Sunset Valley Trailhead Facility

Located in the Figueroa Mt. area. This 2 mile trail parallels the Sunset Valley Road. It meanders through oaks, pine and chaparral.

Munch Canyon Trailhead Facility

Munch Canyon Trailhead is located on Sunset Valley Road on Figueroa Mountain. This trailhead meets up with several other trails in this general area, including the Davy Brown Trail and White Rock Trail. This trail is very popular during spring, as it produces beautiful wildflowers during a wet year. From mid-July to the end of September, this trail is utilized by hunters during deer season. The parking for this trailhead is very minimal. There is a turnout directly in front of the trailhead that would accommodate no more than 3 vehicles at a time.

Howard Creek - 22W26 Facility

Howard Creek Trail (22W26)

Length: 2.8 miles

Difficulty: moderate

Turn right on Rose Valley Road and drive .4 miles and park on the right. The trail starts on a dirt road behind a locked gate. This is one of the shortest hikes to Nordhoff Ridge where there are fantastic views of the coastline and the Ojai Valley.

15E10- Quail Facility

Quail . 15E10.

Green Diamond. Least difficult. Open to Motorcycles/ ATVS/4WD.

Quail Road can only be accessed from Fernandez Road. Only street legal vehicles can access this route. This short route leaves Fernandez Road and dead-ends on the ridge top. 1 mile

Little Sur Camp - 2E09 Facility

Bottcher's Gap to Little Sur River

Dick Smith Wilderness Facility

Dick Smith Wilderness was established in 1984 by the California Wilderness Act. Deep within the Santa Barbara Backcountry lies a knot of mountains topped by Madulce Peak. The Dick Smith Wilderness comprises 64,700 acres of diverse topography with elevations ranging from 3,700 to 6,541 feet. While chaparral is the predominant vegetation, the Madulce Peak area has some of the most beautiful stands of mixed conifers found in the Forest. The Rancho Nuevo area is more open with massive sandstone rock formations, chaparral, big cone Douglas fir and Great Basin sagebrush.

Cumbre Day Use Facility

Located among the pines high on Figueroa Mountain. Beautiful displays of wildflowers March through May.

This day use area may be closed in the winter due to wet weather. Check with the Santa Lucia Ranger District - (805) 925-9538.

17E06- Shaw Ridge Facility

Shaw Ridge. 17E06

Black Diamond. Most difficult . Open to Motorcycles/ATVS / 4WD.

This route leaves the Twin Rocks route on a spur ridge that drops into the Alamo Creek drainage and deadends. A very steep section of trail exists at the end of this route where specialized equipment is recommended. This section is recommended for advanced riders. 8 Miles.

Camuesa Connector Facility

Trail crosses the river and meanders four miles up the south slope of the river canyon to tie into Camuesa Rd.

16E09- Pine Mountain Facility

Pine Mountain . 16E09.

Black Diamond. Most Difficult. Open to Motorcycles/ATVS / 4WD.

This trail is open to all OHV riders, but is best suited for the intermediate and advanced skill levels. The trail borders the Machesna Wilderness and contains one black diamond section called the Stair Steps. This route offers some outstanding vistas of the valleys below and distant Machesna Mountain Wilderness. 7 miles

Frazier Mountain Trailhead - 20W03 Facility

Forest Development Road 20W03 is also known as OHV Trail 118 on the Mt Pinos Motor Vehicle Guide (OHV Map)

Difficulty: easy

Length: 6.0 miles

Maps: 7.5 minute USGS topographic maps (Cuddy Valley)

The Frazier Mountain Trailhead (elev. 5400 ft.) is located on the west side of Frazier Mountain Road (8N04) approximately ¾ mile south of Lockwood Valley Road and Forest Service Chuchupate Ranger Station. There is a large paved parking lot with pull-through stalls for vehicles with trailers or motor homes and a vault toilet at the trailhead. The signed Off Highway Vehicle trail starts at the southwest end of the parking lot. There is no overnight camping allowed at the trailhead, except in self-contained vehicles, but Chuchupate Campground, with 29 individual sites, is located 2 miles further south on Frazier Mountain Road.

Ozena - 23W42 Facility

This trail is located near the Ozena Fire Station just off of State Highway 33. The trail travels southward to Pine Mountain with a short Spur trail to McGuire Spring.

Goldhill Camping Area Facility

Goldhill Camping Area is an open camping location adjacent to Piru Creek at the base of Alamo Mountain. Recreational Vehicles up to 26 feet. Picnic tables, fire rings, toilets. No potable water available. Located near several Forest Service Off-Highway Vehicle (motorcycle and four-wheel drive) roads and trails and is approximately eight miles southwest of Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area.

Area ammenities: Tent camping, Trailer camping, Picnic tables, Toilets, Parking, Trash service

Salisbury Potrero - 26W01 Facility

Hike is through badland terrain and potrero grasslands.

Big Sur - 3E07 Facility

Cold Springs Camp to Pine Ridge Trail

Church Creek - 3E05 Facility

Tassajara Road to Church Creek Divide

Big Pines - 1E02 Facility

Los Padres Dam to Pat Springs Camp

Pozo - La Panza OHV Area Facility

The Pozo/La Panza area is located on the north side of the District. This 18,867-acre area has approximately 44.5 miles of routes that vary from sandy washes to a ridgeline route including a section known to expert riders as the Stair Steps. It has 300-foot drop-off within a few feet of the steps.

Map of the Pozo - La Panza OHV Area

The Adventure Pass is not required for use in this area. This is a concession-managed fee area. Day use is $10. Campgrounds are $20/night. Fee tubes are located at the OHV trailheads and campgrounds.

Santa Lucia Wilderness Facility

Santa Lucia Wilderness 18, 679 acres; established in 1978 by the Endangered American Wilderness Act.

The Santa Lucia Wilderness is located inland from Arroyo Grande and San Luis Obispo. The land is extremely rugged with chaparral-covered peaks and streamfed valleys of oaks and lush riparian vegetation. From the ridgetops you can see the vista of Morro Rock and the Seven Sisters hills of San Luis Obispo. This wilderness offers views along waterfalls and scenic streams, trails for hiking, hunting, solitude and recreation await you, just ten minutes from San Luis Obispo.

Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center Facility

The Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center which is located 8 miles north of Ojai on Highway 33, is the first dedicated Visitor Center in the almost 100 year history of the Los Padres National Forest. Since opening in June 2001, the center has served over 20,000 visitors.

The Visitor Center provides public information about Los Padres National Forest and also sells maps, trail guides, forest-related books, Adventure Passes and other items.

Trained staff can help guide you to the many and varied recreational and educational experiences available in the forest and can also help with extended backcountry trip planning for the local wilderness areas.

The Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center also serves as a hub for interpretive and educational activities and programs. These include presentations about the resources and issues of Los Padres National Forest. One of the more popular programs is the Introduction to Backpacking course. Programs are offered on Saturdays May through September.

The Visitor Center also has local wildlife displays and there is a classroom, library, large parking area and an outside picnic area.

For information about scheduled hours of operation and current programs please visit the Los Padres Forest Association website or call the Ojai Ranger Station at 805-448-6487.

Santa Lucia Ranger District Facility

The Santa Lucia Ranger District offers a diversity of outdoor opportunities. These lands are yours - to visit, to care for, but most of all, to enjoy. What are you waiting for? Pack up your family and friends and head for adventure in America's Great Outdoors. TheSanta Lucia Ranger District offers a variety of recreational opportunities... hiking and backpacking, trail riding by horse, bicycle, off-highway vehicles, camping and picnicking, and fishing, and don't forget vibrant wildflower displays each spring especially in the Figueroa Recreation Area.

Recreation passes are required for use of certain recreation sites and areas in the forest, and for certain facilities and services.Click HERE for more information about the Adventure Pass.

Click HERE for more information about where the Parks Management Annual (PMC) Day Use Pass is needed - concession managed campgrounds and day use areas in the Los Padres National Forest.

Danish Creek - 2E10 Facility

Los Padres Dam to Danish Creek Camp

Ballinger Canyon Facility

The Ballinger and Deer Park areas are geared toward OHV use. These areas provide 11 4WD roads, 12 ATV trails, and 14 motorcycle trails. Access to 4WD roads is available to both ATVs and motorcycles, and access to ATV trails is available to motorcycles.

Lower Manzana Trailhead Facility

The Lower Manzana Trailhead is located on Sunset Valley Road, approximately 1.5 miles past Davy Brown Campground. This trailhead is very popular for a number of reasons, primarily because it is a portal to the San Rafael Wilderness. The Lower Manzana Trailhead leads to a historical schoolhouse, last used in 1901. In close proximity to the schoolhouse, one will also find a historical hunting lodge known as the Dabney Cabin. This trail is also very popular for backpackers and horseback riders, as there are many primitive campsites throughout the connecting trails. The parking area is in a wide turnout within 50 feet of the trailhead and accommodates between 12 to 15 vehicles. During heavy rainfalls, the trailhead may be inaccessible.

Carmel River - 3E03 Facility

Los Padres Dam to Pine Ridge Trail. There is no access to the Carmel River, Rattlesnake, and Big Pines trails from Los Padres Dam. Several significant active slides have forced Cal Am to close their private access road to protect the public. There are no workarounds. Please stay away until Cal Am can repair the road. Please contact the Monterey Ranger District for alternate trail routes. (831) 385-5434 X 0.

Ventana Double Cone - 2E02 Facility

Skinner Ridge Trail to Ventana Double Cone

White Rock Trailhead Facility

White Rock Trailhead is located on Sunset Valley Road on Figueroa Mountain. This trailhead meets up with several other trails in this general area, including East Pinery and Munch Canyon Trail. This trail is very popular during spring, as it produces beautiful wildflowers during a wet year. From mid-July to the end of September, this trail is utilized by hunters during deer season. The parking for this trailhead is very minimal. There is no designated parking area for this trailhead. Visitors merely park adjacent to Sunset Valley Road near the trail.

Rock Front OHV Area Facility

The Rock Front area is located in the center of the Ranger District. This 15,328-acre area provides 41 miles of 4x4 trails that vary from rock-covered canyons to ridgeline trails with outstanding vistas of the Cuyama Valley.

Map of the Rock Front OHV Area

Adobe Trailhead Facility

The site is located on Hwy #166. 20 miles east of Santa Maria.

This trail is currently within the Front Fire Closure area. No access. Trail is expected to reopen in early 2019.

Adobe Trailhead has one large parking area and serving hikers, equestrians. No motorized use allowed. The facility has no drinking water and trash receptacles. Please pack your trash out.

The Adobe trail (31W03) 2.5 miles has beautiful scenic views.

Difficulty level : Easy to Moderate

The trailhead is open all year.

Upper Rose Valley Lake Day Use Area Facility

Upper Rose Valley Lake is located 4 miles off of the Rose Valley Road. Access to the lake is open all year.

Deer Park Facility

Junipero Serra Peak - 6E01 Facility

Santa Lucia Trail

Little Sur - 1E02 Facility

Old Coast Road to Bottcher's Gap

De Angulo - 2E07 Facility

Highway 1 to Coast Ridge trail

Cerro Alto Loop Facility

Experience a climb to one of San Luis Obispo's highest points. Found within West Cuesta Ridge; Cerro Alto Loop, provides spectacular views of San Luis Obispo County, Los Padres National Forest, and the Pacific Ocean. Follow Morro Creek into pretty oak woodlands and traverse to then enjoy open grasslands.

San Rafael Wilderness Facility

n 1968 the San Rafael became the first primitive area in the Nation reclassified as wilderness under the Wilderness Act of 1964, additional acreage added in 1992 by the Los Padres Condor Range and River Protection Act. The San Rafael Wilderness is located in the San Rafael and Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges in southeastern Santa Barbara County (northern part of Santa Barbara District and Southern part of Santa Lucia District). This wilderness is mainly covered by chaparral, which consists of chamise, buckthorn ceanothus manzanita, scrub oak and yucca. You will also find potreros (grassy meadows). The two main corridors into the wilderness are the Sisquoc River and Manzana Creek. Most trails follow the creeks and rivers. These areas are called riparian zones and provide food, water, and shelter for most species of wildlife. In the water are rainbow trout, western pond turtles, and aquatic garter snakes, to name a few. Bordering the water you may find the western toad or hear the call of the pacific and California tree frogs From April through June you can hear the many songbirds that nest in riparian zones, such as the yellow warbler, house wren, orange-crowned warbler, and plain titmouse. Further from the creek, up in the brush, you will hear the scrub jay, California quail, and mountain quail. Other points of interest include the Manzana Schoolhouse and the standing ruins of homesteads along the Sisquoc River. These sites are all that remain of a vigorous farming community that settled the flats along the river around the turn-of-the-century. The South Fork Cabin is a historic Forest Service line shack that has sheltered generations of backcountry rangers. The Dabney Cabin, nestled on a small terrace above Manzana Creek, was built in 1914 as a retreat for the family of Charles Dabney.

Arroyo Seco Facility

Santa Lucia Memorial Park

Hennickson's Ridge - 3E04 Facility

Chew's Ridge to Miller Canyon

La Jolla / Ballard Trailhead Facility

La Jolla / Ballard Trailhead is located approximately 12.5 miles from the time that one turns onto Figueroa Mountain Road off of Highway 154. You will find the trailhead .5 miles past the Figueroa Station. Parking is available on the right side of the road on the dirt turnout, right before Tunnell Ranch Road. This parking area can accommodate between 5 to 6 vehicles. This trail is approximately 3 miles and leads to a primitive campsite known as Ballard. This trail is very popular during spring, as the wildflowers are spectacular during this time of year.

Located in the Figueroa Mountain area. This 5 mile trail is steep and goes into a canyon bottom where a spring feeds a cold stream. When you get to the bottom, you'll find the remains of an old CCC cabin. Ballard trail camp is in the canyon bottom. An easy hike down, hard work coming back. This trail is most popular in fall and spring. Summer finds the exposed hillsides not very inviting.

Nordhoff Ridge Road Facility

Alert - 5/1/2022 - The Nordhoff Ridge Rd is temporarily closed until further notice due to winter storm damage to the road.

Nordhoff Ridge Road is a street leagal 4-wheel drive road. Open by permit only approximately May 1 - December 15. Nordhoff Ridge Rd is a wide and hard packed 4 X 4 Road that is approximately 10 miles long. The road has a few steep climbs but features some stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges and Valley. Disperse camping is allowed. Call (661) 805-1057 for more information.

PLEASE PACK OUT ALL OF YOUR TRASH, TOILET PAPER AND HUMAN WASTE!

There are no trash cans or trash pick up on Nordhoff Ridge Rd. Please pack out all of your trash. There are no toilets there. Please pack out your toilet paper and human waste.

Please keep this area clean for other visitors to enjoy! We appreciate your help with this.

Please keep it cleaner than when you found it.

Thank you!

Alder Creek - 20W11 Facility

Alder Creek Trail (20W11)

WILDERNESS

Length: 7.5

Difficulty: moderate trailhead to Cow Spring, difficult to Shady Camp turnoff

Take Highway 126 to Fillmore. Turn north on A Street/Goodenough Road and drive 14.1 miles to Dough Flat. This is a narrow, rough road that is traveled by large oil trucks. Be very cautious in route to trailhead. From here, you enter the Sespe Wilderness. Hike 2.5 miles north to the Bucksnort Junction. Continue west one mile to reach Cow Spring Camp. Water is usually only available here during winter and spring. Continue 3.2 miles down to Alder Creek Camp. The trail below Dripping Springs becomes narrow and sections of the tread have been destroyed from winter flooding. There are two campsites separated by the creek crossing. Continue west along the creek .8 miles to reach the junction with Trail #9.

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** Trail conditions**

• Alder Creek Camp to Shady: trail is sporadic and navigating required.

• Cow Springs to McDonald Trail turnoff, 2.7 Route is narrow and trail drops significantly. 1/4 mile west of this junction, the trail drops into the "river bed". The tread was washed out in the flooding following the 2006 Day Fire. It is easier to stay in the river bed to Alder Creek Camp. This section is approximately 1/2 mile.

• Dough Flat to Cow Springs, 3.4 miles; route is easy to find. Some dense brushy areas. Stock should not go beyond this point.

16E02- Las Chiches Cut Off Facility

Las Chiches Cut Off . 16E02.

Blue Diamond. More Difficult. Open to Motorcycles/ATVS / 4WD.

This is a connector trail that intersects with Las Chiches 4x4 trail ends at Fernandez Road. Riders can continue straight and access Burnout Trail, which are both open to motorcycles onl. 0.5 Miles.

Jacinto Reyes National Scenic Byway Facility

The Jacinto Reyes Scenic Byway traverses the Ojai Ranger District and part of Mt. Pinos Ranger District of the Los Padres NF and is entirely within Ventura County. The byway is bordered by 30 miles of national forest and 7 miles of private land within the forest boundary. About .75 mile of byway is outside the national forest.

The byway travels through some of the most picturesque and diverse terrain in southern California. Spectacular vistas greet you along the entire route, and yet you are also treated to "close encounters" with beautiful cliffs, rock formations, and lush riparian areas. The unique geology, geomorphology, plant, and animal life of the area captures the interest and imagination of the casual recreationist and scientist alike. The corridor provides access to four Congressional designated wildernesses.

Highway 33 is a state highway, maintained by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans).
Highway 33 is both a National Forest Scenic Byway, and a State Scenic Highway. This means that it traverses a scenic corridor of outstanding aesthetic, cultural, historic, and interpretive values.

More Byway Information.........

Matias Potrero Facility

Chaparral vegetation

La Cumbre Peak Day Use Facility

Top of the Santa Ynez Mountain Range, overlooking the city of Santa Barbara. Coulter pines, maple trees, manzanita, bay trees, chaparral. There is a ¼ mile hike past the locked gate to the picnic area on top. Next to the day use area there is an old Forest Service fire lookout tower that is closed to the public.

Stonehouse - 20W35 Facility

This picturesque trail is located adjacent to the Sespe Wilderness and follows along Mutau Creek. Access to this trail can be gained by taking the Piru Creek Trail east from Halfmoon Campground, or by taking the Johnston Ridge trail out of Mutau Flat. Travel is by foot or horse back on an easy trail 4 miles from the end of the road northeast of Mutau Flat down the Mutau Creek, or down the 4WD road from Halfmoon campground for 3 miles (Piru Trail), then on to Stonehouse. Creek water is available (purify)

Divide Peak OHV Trailhead Facility

Offers views of Santa Barbara coastline, Upper Santa Ynez Valley and San Rafael Mountains. Divide Peak Road is approximately 17 miles on East Camino Cielo from Highway 154. The parking lot for the OHV road is on the right side of East Camino Cielo 12.5 miles from Highway 154.

Buck Creek - 18W01 Facility

Spectacular views of the surrounding environment are awarded the hardy outdoor enthusiast. On this trail, steep canyons, dense stands of big cone douglas fir and rugged peaks await the visitor. Water is available from the creek (purify). Nearest supplies are at Gorman, approximately 16 miles.

Rinconada Trailhead Facility

The site is located off US 101 take Hwy 58 Santa Margarita turn right on Estrada 58 stay on Pozo road for 10 miles then turn right to Rinconada TH.

Rinconada Trailhead has one large parking area and serving hikers, equestrians. No motorized use allowed.

The Rinconada trail (14E30) 1.8 miles has beautiful scenic views.

Difficulty level : Easy to Moderate.

The trailhead is open all year.

Hitching posts. Stock trailer parking. Water trough.

Do to heavy rainfall in the area the Rinconada trail head is temporarily closed.

Willow Spur Facility

Located in the Figueroa Mountain area. This 1 mile trail is a short connector between Willow Springs Trail and upper Davy Brown Trail.

Figueroa OHV Recreation Area Facility

Catway 29W02 - This route loops around Figueroa Mountain where the trail can begin on Zaca Ridge Road or near Davy Brown Campground. More difficulty.

Zaca Ridge Road 8N02 - This route begins at Figueroa Mountain Road and follows Zaca Ridge until it meets at a dead-end. Easiest

Spruce Creek - 6E10 Facility

Salmon Creek Trail to San Carpoforo Camp

Rose-Lion Connector - 22W16 Facility

Rose-Lion Connector Trail (22W16)

Length: 1.6 miles

Difficulty: moderate

This trail connects the Rose Valley Campground with the Lion Canyon Trail (22W06). The junction is 1.3 miles south of Middle Lion Campground. This trail gives hikers wonderful views northward toward Pine Mountain and provides access to the camps and waterfalls in Lion Canyon. Parking is alongside the road near the Rose Valley Campground.

Dough Flat Trailhead Facility

Open in Spring, Summer and Fall and is within the Winter Seasonal Closure between approximately December 15th – April 30^th.

Alder Creek Trail (20W11)

Difficulty: moderate from trailhead to Cow Spring Camp; difficult to Shady Camp turnoff

From the Dough Flat Trailhead, you will enter the Sespe Wilderness within ¼ mile. Hike 2.5 miles north to the Bucksnort Trail Junction. Continue west one mile to reach Cow Spring Camp. Continue 3.2 miles down to Alder Creek Camp. The trail below Dripping Springs becomes narrow and sections of the tread have been destroyed from winter flooding. There are two campsites separated by the creek crossing. Continue west along the creek .8 miles to reach the junction with Sespe River Trail (20W13). Water is usually only available here during winter and spring.

Length: 7.5 miles

SESPE WILDERNESS - More information on the Sespe Wilderness: www.wilderness.net

Maps: Tom Harrison - Sespe Wilderness Map or 7.5 minute USGS topographic maps (Devils Heart Peak)

Take Highway 126 to Fillmore. Turn north on A Street/Goodenough Road and drive 14.1 miles to Dough Flat Trailhead. This is a narrow, rough road that is traveled by large oil trucks. Be very cautious en route to trailhead. Follow the road, being careful to stay on the main road, the side roads will take you to oil well pads. The Dough Flat parking area is adjacent to the public access corridor of the Sespe Condor Sanctuary.

North Fork Matilija - 23W07 Facility

North Fork Matilija Trail (23W07)

WILDERNESS

Length: 9.1 miles

Difficulty: moderate to Middle Matilija and difficult to the north end

Further up the canyon are three more camps: Middle Matilija (4.1 miles), Upper Matilija (5.7 miles) and Maple (7.5 miles). All four camps offer shaded streamside sites. After another 1.6 miles, the trail ends at a seasonally open dirt road that leads north down Cherry Canyon to Highway 33.

For the northern access point, go 27.4 miles north of Ojai on Highway 33 and turn left on rough dirt road up Cherry Canyon. Travel 3.0 miles to the trailhead at the ridge top. Please check with the Ojai Ranger District before your visit.

Catway Day Use Facility

On the Catway Road overlooking Santa Ynez Valley

Skinner Ridge - 1E04 Facility

Bottchers Gap to Ventana Double Cone Trail; Pat Springs

Anastasia Canyon Facility

Tassajara Road to "Bear Trap"

Buck Creek Trailhead- 18W01 Facility

Buck Creek Trail (18W01)

Difficulty: moderate to difficult

Length: 11.25 miles

SESPE WILDERNESS - More information on the Sespe Wilderness: www.wilderness.net

Maps: 7.5 minute USGS topographic maps (Black Mountain)

The Buck Creek Trailhead (elev. 3060 ft.) is located at the southern end of Hardluck Campground (which is currently Closed) and Forest Service Rd. 8N24. Trailhead parking is located 3.0 miles away at the locked gate off of Los Alamos Road, located adjacent to the southern portion of Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area. There are no facilities at the parking area or trailhead.

Puerto Suelo - 3E08 Facility

Hiding Camp to Ventana Double Cone Trail

16E23- Navajo Bypass Facility

Navajo Bypass . 16E23.

Blue Diamond. More difficult. Open to Motorcycles and ATV’s Only.

Navajo Bypass starts at Friis Road and ends at Navajo Road. This trail is best suited for intermediate riders due to two steep sections in the middle of the trail. Since this trail ends on Navajo Road, the section of the road that connects to the McGinnis Creek is legal for all motorcycles and quad runners. The remainder of the Navajo Road is for street legal vehicles only. 1.5 Miles

17E07- Los Machos Facility

Los Machos- 17E07

Green Diamond. Least Difficult. Open to Motorcycles/ATVS / 4WD.

This route is a good route for beginning riders. It is located on the main ridge top of the Los Machos Hills. The route dead-ends at a locked gate. 2.8 Miles

Upper Rancho Nuevo - 24W03 Facility

From Deal Junction travel trail 24W03 for 5 miles to Upper Rancho Nuevo Camp. This camp is surrounded by pinyon pine, yucca and chaparral in a beautiful secluded canyon. This is a wilderness camp and there are no facilities located at this camp. Water is available but be sure to purify, as there are heavy minerals in the creek.

8N02 Zaca Ridge Road Facility

This route begins at Figueroa Mountain Road and follows Zaca Ridge until it meets at a dead-end. Easiest.

16E22- McGinnis Creek Facility

McGinnis Creek . 16E22.

Green Diamond. Least difficult. Open to Motorcycles and ATV’s Only.

This trail runs parallel to the creek and is level with no steep sections making it ideal for beginners. Since this trail ends on Navajo Road, the section of the road that connects to the Navajo Bypass is legal for all motorcycles and quad runners. The remainder of the Navajo Road is for street legal vehicles only. 1 mile.

Rattlesnake Creek - 2E11 Facility

Danish Camp to Little Pines

17E08- Paradise Facility

Paradise- 17E08

Blue diamond. More difficult. Open to Motorcycles/ATVS / 4WD.

This route provides access to Paradise Campground and Los Machos route. It is best suited for intermediate riders due to a steep section along the route. The route dead-ends at a locked gate. 2 Miles

Zaca Peak Facility

Located in the Figueroa Mountain area. The trail follows a ridge top west from the Zaca Peak Road. The west end of the trail drops down to the privately-owned Zaca Lake Resort. Unobstructed views of the Santa Ynez Valley and Zaca Lake basin are found along this route. This trail may be hard to locate since the 1995 Marre Fire.

North Coast Ridge - 3E10 Facility

Cone Peak Roadhead to Highway 1, at Ventana Inn

Pine Valley - 1E02 Facility

China Camp to Pine Valley

Silver Peak Wilderness Facility

This wilderness was established in 1992 by the Los Padres Condor Range and River Protection Act. On December 19, 2002 the Big Sur Wilderness and Conservation Act of 2002 added 17,055 acres to the existing wilderness for a total of 31,555 acres. Dramatic scenery, steep terrain, coastal redwood groves. The Silver Peak Wilderness is located in the southwestern portion of the Monterey Ranger District and along the famous Big Sur coastline. Hiking is available on moderate to strenuous trails, wildlife is present in more remote areas Photographic opportunities abound. Access to parts of the backcountry is by dirt roads and is open subject to weather conditions.

17E11- Jack Springs Facility

Jack Springs- 17E11

Blue diamond. More difficult. Open to Motorcycles/ATVS / 4WD.

This trail is accessible from the Big Rocks and Branch Creek routes and is well suited for intermediate riders. Some steep sections exist along this route making it a challenge for the best intermediate riders. 1.8 Mile

First Crossing Day Use Picnic Area Facility

The First Crossing Day Use Area is a 16 acre day use picnic site located off Paradise Road just before the first Santa Ynez River crossing ford.

The First Crossing Day Use Area is open all year. During high river flows Paradise Road is closed to motorized vehicles at the river ford and this facility becomes the “end of the road” for visitor vehicle access.

The site is adjacent to the Santa Ynez river and trails provide access to the river.

The facility has 50 picnic tables at 13 picnic sites accommodating 16 to 24 people each. The site consists of 130 parking spaces with one trailer parking space. There are three vault toilet buildings.

The interior roads and parking spurs are paved, all walkways are concrete and the entire site is accessible. The site is designed for large extended family groups.

There are three large garbage dumpsters located throughout the site. There is no electricity or phone service to the site.

Area amenities: Picnic tables, BBQs, Parking, trash, hiking trails, water play.

McKinley Trailhead Facility

McKinley Trailhead is located approximately 13 miles from the junction of Figueroa Mtn Road and Happy Canyon/Sunset Valley Road. In order to reach the trailhead, one must hike to the trailhead for 13 miles past the locked gate. From the trailhead one can access Big Cone Spruce Campsite and continue to the Manzana Trail in the San Rafael Wilderness.

Girard - 4E17 Facility

Cone Peak Road to Vincente Flat

Pratt - 23W09 Facility

Pratt Trail (23W09)

Length: 4.4 miles

Difficulty: moderately difficult

Begin at the trailhead area located off of Signal Street heading north of downtown Ojai. The trail ends on Nordhoff Ridge, one mile west of the old Lookout Tower. The trail's lower section ties into the Cozy Dell Trail (23W26), Foothill Trail, and the Ojai Fuelbreak Road. This system of trails and the fuelbreak provide many different day hike opportunities.

The lower end of the trail goes through private property, so please follow the signs and stay on the trail. The short-side trail to Valley View Camp leaves from the upper section.

Santa Paula Canyon (Last Chance) - 21W11 / 21W09 Facility

Santa Paula Canyon (Last Chance Trail)

(21W11 & 21W09)

PARTIAL WILDERNESS

Length: 6.0 miles to Jackson Hole

Difficulty: moderate to Jackson Hole and difficult to north end

Park in either of two dirt parking lots off Highway 150 adjacent to the entrance of Thomas Aquinas College. Walk up the college road. Please respect signs to stay on road and do not cut across open areas of campus. The road eventually splits off to the right from the college and continues through a ranch and oil well site.

Approximately 1.3 miles from the highway and after the oil wells, the route enters dense sycamore and alder stands along the creekbottom.

During the winter floods of 2005, much of the trail and road was eliminated due to high waters. Since this trail receives heavy use on weekends, we recommend hiking it on a weekday. The main attractions are a narrow gorge and beautiful waterfalls that cascade into deep pools of water.

Be very careful when hiking this trail due to the many steep drop-offs and high cliffs. After 3.4 miles, the trail passes Big Cone Camp that has campsites set in a shady grove of big cone Douglas-fir with year-round water close by. A great alternative less then a mile further up the trail is Cross Camp. This camp offers secluded, nicely arranged campsites on Santa Paula Creek (year-round water).

At 1.8 miles from Cross Camp a trail turns off to the right and drops down to Jackson Camp. The main trail continues another 0.2 miles to Jackson Hole. For the adventurous, an unmaintained trail picks up at 0.4 miles up-canyon from Jackson Hole and continues on to Last Chance Camp and Topatopa Mountains. The trail is not passable to stock beyond Big Cone Camp.

Deal Canyon - 24W10 Facility

Hiking Trail in the Mt. Pinos Ranger District.

Sespe Wilderness Facility

Introduction

The United States Congress designated the Sespe Wilderness in 1992 and it now has a total of 219,468 acres. All of this wilderness is located in Los Padres National Forest in the Ojai and Mt. Pinos Ranger Districts and is managed by the Forest Service.

Description

Sespe Wilderness provides ample evidence of past violent geological upthrusts. The landscape is bleak and jagged, and if you climb high enough, you'll find pine trees growing at odd angles on boulder-swept hillsides. Sespe Creek, the last remaining undammed river in Southern California, runs for 31.5 Wild and Scenic miles (most of it in the Wilderness), and 10.5 miles of Upper Sespe Creek are under consideration for designation. Sandstone cliffs rise as much as 500 feet above the water in places, and fabulous sandstone formations stand in portions of the area. You may see petroglyphs and other evidence of ancient Indians. You might also spot black bears, deer, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, rattlesnakes, red-tailed hawks, and golden eagles. The 53,000-acre Sespe Condor Sanctuary is located here, but public entry is prohibited to protect California condors. The wilderness area is a part of the fourth largest roadless region left in the Lower 48, and it's the one closest to a large metropolitan area.

Numerous trails provide access, and human use is moderate. The Gene Marshall-Piedra Blanca National Recreation Trail leads 18 miles through impressive white rocks to pleasant campsites nestled in conifers, a boon when much of the area lies without shade. The Sespe River Trail (17.5 miles) leads past cool swimming holes that thin down to shallows in the dry period, and on to Sespe Hot Springs and some of the hottest natural water in America.

Ventana Wilderness Facility

This wilderness was established in 1978 by the Endangered American Wilderness Act, first addition was in 1978 by the Endangered American Wilderness Act, second addition in 1992 by the Los Padres Condor Range and River Protection Act. On December 19, 2002 the Big Sur Wilderness and Conservation Act of 2002 added 33,967 acres to the existing wilderness bringing it to a total of 240, 026 acres. Topography of the Ventana Wilderness is characterized by steep-sided, sharp-crested ridges separating V-shaped youthful valleys. Most streams fall rapidly through narrow, vertical-walled canyons flowing on bedrock or a veneer of boulders. Waterfalls, deep pools and thermal springs are found along major streams. Elevations range from 600 feet, where the Big Sur River leaves the Wilderness, to about 5,750 feet at the Wilderness boundary circumventing Junipero Serra Peak. Marked vegetation changes occur within the Wilderness. These changes are attributed to dramatic climate and topographic variations coupled with an extensive fire history. Much of the damage to vegetation is only temporary, since fire is an integral part of this Wilderness as it is of other areas of the Forest. Much of the Ventana is covered by chaparral. This brushy vegetative cover is typical of that found throughout Southern California fire susceptible mountains. The contrast of annual grass meadows and open pine stands may be found throughout the Wilderness. Deep narrow canyons cut by the fast moving Big and Little Sur Rivers support virgin stands of coastal redwood. Small scattered stands of the endemic Bristlecone Fir may be found on rocky slopes.

Murietta - 24W07 Facility

Murietta Trail (24W07)

Length: 2.4 miles

Difficulty: moderate

Drive up Matilija Canyon Road to a locked gate and park along the road. Hike on the road .7 miles through private property. About 200 yards past the second stream crossing, the trail will be on the left. It will take you to Murietta Camp after 0.9 miles. This pleasant camp offers three shady sites in an open area under large oak trees. Water is available at Murietta Creek most of the year.

The trail continues another .8 miles to its intersection with Murietta Divide Road. Downhill this dirt road will lead 2.6 miles to the parking lot or uphill 2.3 miles to the Murietta Divide, with steep sections toward the end.

15E09- Benchmark Facility

Benchmark . 15E09.

Green Diamond. Least difficult. Open to Motorcycles/ ATVS/4WD.

This trail is a level easy-going route. It dead ends for 4x4s where it intersects with the Mare Springs trail. 1 mile.

17E12- Twin Rocks Facility

Twin Rocks- 17E12

Blue diamond. More difficult. Open to Motorcycles/ATVS / 4WD.

This route intersects Shaw Ridge and dead-ends at a locked gate. The first half-mile of this trail is steep. Once on top of the ridge you have excellent views of the Cuyama Valley and the Santa Lucia Range. 3.5 Miles

Miller Canyon - 3E04 Facility

China Camp to Los Padres Dam via Miller Canyon

17E05- Logan Ridge Facility

Logan Ridge. 17E05

Green Diamond. Least Difficult Open to Motorcycles/ATVS / 4WD.

This route is a good route for beginning riders. It is located on the main ridge top of Logan Ridge. The route dead-ends at a locked gate. (1.4 Miles)

Carrizo - 3E10 Facility

Old historic trailhead on Milpitas Road

Jackson Camp - 2E08 Facility

Pico Blanco BSA to Little Sur River

North Fork - 22W02 Facility

North Fork Matilija Trail (23W07)

WILDERNESS

Length: 9.1 miles

Difficulty: moderate to Middle Matilija and difficult to north end

Southern access point is the same trailhead as the Murietta Trail (24W07). Leading off to the right after the second stream crossing, the trail enters the wilderness and follows the year-round creek. From the gate you'll reach Matilija Camp after 1.48 miles. Further up the canyon are three more camps: Middle Matilija (4.1 miles), Upper Matilija (5.7 miles) and Maple (7.5 miles).

All four camps offer shaded, streamside sites. After another 1.6 miles, the trail ends at a seasonally open dirt road that leads north down Cherry Canyon to Highway 33. For the northern access point, go 27.4 miles north of Ojai on Highway 33 and turn left on rough dirt road up Cherry Canyon. Travel 3.0 miles to the trailhead at the ridge top. Please check with the Ojai Ranger District before your visit fro current conditions.

Chorro Grande - 23W05 Facility

Chorro Grande Trail (23W05)

Length: 5.1 miles

Difficulty: moderately difficult

Take Highway 33 north 25.8 miles to Chorro Grande Trail sign at mile marker 36.60. Hike 1.7 miles to Oak Camp where there is year-round water. It is another 2.6 miles to reach Chorro Springs Camp, which has water year-round, beneath the conifers. The trail ends on Pine Mountain Ridge at the Reyes Peak Campground after another .8 miles. On clear days, you can see some of the Channel Islands and the Matilija Wilderness from the ridge.

San Antonio - 5E04 Facility

Cone Peak to San Antonio Camp

Monterey Ranger District Facility

Monterey Ranger District

Lion Canyon - 22W06 Facility

Lion Canyon Trail (22W06)

Length: 5.5 miles

Difficulty: easy for first 2 miles, then moderately difficult

Drive 14.8 miles north of Ojai on Highway 33. The trail starts at the back of Middle Lion Campground in the Rose Valley Recreation Area where it immediately crosses the stream. You will reach two trail junctions along the way. After 1.3 miles you will reach the Rose-Lion Connector Trail (22W16) on the right. After 0.6 miles you can take side trails to East Fork Lion Camp, which is within the Sespe Wilderness, or West Fork Lion Camp. The main trail continues 3.6 miles to Nordhoff Ridge for spectacular views.

Turner Creek - 1E02 Facility

Bottchers Gap to Turner Creek Camp

17E09- Branch Creek Facility

Branch Creek – 17E09

Blue diamond. More difficult. Open to Motorcycles/ATVS / 4WD.

This route provides access to Buck Springs Campground, parallels the Big Rock route and offers a loop ride. 5.5 Miles

Camuesa Road Facility

An easy route which connects Lower Santa Ynez Recreation Area to Buckhorn Road and ends one mile from Lower Camuesa Primitive Camp. Camuesa/Buckhorn Roads can be accessed from Upper Oso Campground parking lot 6 miles off Paradise Road.

Little Mutau Trailhead 20W10 Facility

Open in Spring/Summer/Fall and is within the Winter seasonal closure between November 1st and April 30th

Little Mutau Trail (20W10)

Difficulty: moderate to difficult

Length: 9.5 miles

SESPE WILDERNESS - More information on the Sespe Wilderness: www.wilderness.net

Maps: 7.5 minute USGS topographic maps (Alamo Mountain)

The Little Mutau Trailhead (elev. 6800 ft.) is located south of Alamo Mountain Loop Road 8N01 on Sewart Mountain Forest Development Road 6N10. There is a dirt parking lot and a vault toilet at the trailhead. The signed trail starts from the southeast side of the trailhead. There is no overnight camping allowed at the trailhead, but camping is permitted at Dutchman Campground approximately 3 miles northwest on the Alamo Mountain Loop Forest Road (8N01).

Johnston Ridge Trailhead - 20W12 Facility

Open in Spring/Summer/Fall and is within the Winter seasonal closure between November 1^st and April 30^th

The Johnston Ridge Trailhead (elev. 4920 ft.) is located on the southeasterly end of Grade Valley Road (7N03) approximately 13 miles south of Lockwood Valley Road approximately one mile from Mutau Flats. There is a parking area with 5 parking spurs, with hitching rails for horses, and a vault toilet at the trailhead. The signed trail starts from the east side of the parking lot. There is no overnight camping allowed at the trailhead, but camping is permitted at Halfmoon and Thorn Meadows Campgrounds located along Grade Valley Road. This trailhead provides access to Stonehouse Trail (20W35), Little Mutau Trail (20W10), Sespe Hot Springs and Sespe Creek.

Prewitt Loop - 5E06 Facility

Pacific Valley Station to Highway 1

Machesna Mountain Wilderness Facility

Machesna Mountain Wilderness 19,760 acres was established 1992 by the Los Padres Condor Range and River Protection Act. Twenty-five miles from the city of San Luis Obispo, this wilderness boasts high peaks, chaparral, oak woodlands and conifer forests. Prairie falcon and tule elk live in this wilderness. Camping, hiking, are the main types of recreational uses. There is a 1500 acre Research Natural Area, dedicated to study on a unique strain of Coulter Pine.

Fishbowls Trailhead - 21W05 Facility

Open in Spring/Summer/Fall and is within the Winter seasonal closure between November 1^st and April 30^th

Difficulty: easy to moderate

Length: 7.9 miles

Appealing to ATVs, quad runners, dual sports and single track riders, visitors will find access to 45 miles of marked and rated trails geared toward the beginner to experienced rider, and all accessible from your camping spot or the day use staging area. The facility even has a kids track for those beginner riders.

Facilities

Open daily and year-round, Turkey Flat Campground has an open area of campsites that include picnic tables and two vault toilets. You should plan to be completely self-sustainable for the duration of your trip. There is no potable water (drinking water) onsite. There is no dump station. Near the fee/information boards is a staging area to offload gear.

Natural Features

Oak, conifer and various chaparral trees dot the landscape in this rider's paradise. The terrain is mostly rocky and hard packed. On a clear day, take in the expansive views of the coastline and the Sierra Mountains, as well as peaks such as Pozo Summit (elevation 2,635 ft.) and Black Mountain (elevation 3,622 ft.).

Nearby Attractions

Hiking trails, biking, fishing and shopping are all within 29 miles of the campground.

Gene Marshall-Piedra Blanca (Reyes Creek TH) Facility

Gene Marshall-Piedra Blanca Reyes Creek Trail (22W03)

Difficulty: moderate to difficult

Length: 17.9 miles

SESPE WILDERNESS - More information on the Sespe Wilderness: www.wilderness.net

National Recreation Trail System - More information, Click HERE

Maps: Tom Harrison - Sespe Wilderness Map or 7.5 minute USGS topographic maps (Reyes Peak)

Start from the Reyes Creek Trailhead (elev. 4000 ft., with paved parking, vault toilet and small pipe corral) at the end of Forest Service Rd. 7N11 (Camp Scheideck Rd.). The trail ascends an unnamed drainage for 2.5 miles through oak and chaparral until reaching a saddle and then descending 0.5 miles towards Reyes Creek and Upper Reyes camp (elev. 4675 ft.). This camp has 2 stoves, one on either side of the year-round creek.

The trail continues southeast, ascending a ridge for 1.5 miles before descending towards Beartrap Creek and Beartrap camp (elev. 5100 ft.) in 0.3 miles. Beartrap camp has 5 stoves amidst cedars, alders and conifers; water is year-round.

The trail continues 2.8 miles southeast, following the creek until climbing to a saddle (elev. 6200 ft.) and then gradually descending along the headwaters of Piedra Blanca Creek to Haddock camp (elev. 6100 ft.) in 0.7 miles. This camp, set among conifers, has 4 stoves; water is generally reliable during early summer.

The Reyes Peak Trail 23W04 heads west from just upstream of Haddock camp ascending Reyes Peak until reaching Reyes Peak Trailhead (elev. 6980 ft.) in 5.8 miles. Continue southeast from Haddock camp approximately 2 miles, finally descend into Three Mile camp (elev. 5900 ft.). This camp has 3 stoves; water is generally reliable during early summer.

The trail leaves the main drainage in about .3 miles then undulates in and out of tributaries canyons for another 1.5 miles until it reaches Pine Mountain Lodge camp (elev. 6000 ft.). Pine Mountain Lodge camp has 3 fire rings water is generally reliable during the early summer but a small upstream spring can generally be relied on year-round.

Figueroa Campground is surrounded and shaded by red manzanita and a variety of oak and pine trees. During spring, Figueroa Campground is an ideal place to camp while you enjoy the magnificent wildflower displays that Figueroa Mountain has to offer. This is also the home of numerous spring migrating birds, such as the exquisite western tanager, which breeds and raises its young on Figueroa Mountain until August.

Nearby Attractions

A few miles away, Davy Brown Campground is the starting point for several trails, including the spectacular Davy Brown/Fir Canyon Trail. Two miles further are the Lower Manzana and Upper Manzana trailheads, entry points to the majestic San Rafael Wilderness. Los Olivios, Santa Ynez, Solvang and Buelton are within an hour's drive.

Arroyo Seco Trailhead Facility

This trailhead offers access to the popular area of the Arroyo Seco River known as The Gorge and is notable for the long string of swimming holes with crystal clear water flowing through narrow rock walls. This spot also allows hikers to enter the Ventana Wilderness along the Marble Peak Trail leading to backcountry camps such as Willow Springs and Strawberry.

Area amenities: Parking, picnic table, water hydrant, portable toilets.

List of Recreational Areas for State California