We arrived around 9am and parked at the Trespass Trailhead.
I followed the suggestion of hiking a loop ascending the fire road and descending the Trespass Trail for the spectacular ocean views.
We took a short detour to checkout the Gaviota Hot Springs.
Lower milky blue pool with naturally warm sulphur springs.
Upper pool.
After hiking 1.6 miles and ascending 1000ft we were officially in the Los Padres National Forest. We continued through a grassy green field and admired the assortment of flowers
Finally we reached a very gusty windy saddle, we were previously warned about it by a hiker descending the fire road. He said "you are in for a big surprise!" We literally had to hold on to our hats!
From the saddle you arrive at a fork in the road go right and the
final push to the summit is a narrow steep climb.
Whoohoooo!!! group picture on the summit! Gaviota Pk 2458'
This was the coolest register box I have ever seen! Like Tekewin I only found one reference mark. We signed the register and admired the beautiful views.
The Trespass trail is one gorgeous trail! The ocean views and cliffs are breathtaking! The Channel Islands were clearly visible. The cliffs are so enticing. I am definitely going back!
Descending Trespass Trail
One report that I read said that the Trespass trail was overgrown and horrible. Well it really wasn't. Very light bush whacking with a visible trail.
We had a few surprises along the way. We found a cool little cave.
There was some writing etched into the rock. Maybe a surveyor from 1873 hmmm?? same date I found on the reference mark at the peak.
As we continued to admire the views and passed the caves, we spotted a small pond and descended off trail, following a grassy path.
The winds picked up again and I was trying to stand up on a cool rock & take a picture but the winds almost blew me away. Sean managed to capture a quick shot within seconds!
Finally arriving at my car, I had one more surprise for the boys. I read about this 80ft waterfall. We drove a short distance to Nojoqui Falls Park. It's only a 10 minute walk through the park and the waterfall is very beautiful!
To conclude the days festivities, we had one more unexpected surprise! A baby snake hanging out on a bridge.
Overall, it was an awesome day! I love hiking in Santa Barbara!
stats: ~7 miles with a 2150 ft elevation gain! It's probably a good idea not to hike this trail during the hot summer months because most of this trail is exposed, however there are a few shady spots on the Trespass Trail. If you want to experience the gorgeous views don't go on a cloudy day
I hope that Tekewin can go back some day and experience this beautiful trail!
