 | Where: Southeast of Santa Maria near
Tepusquet Peak |
| Who Should Go: Hikers, Cyclist, Backpackers and
Equestrians |
| Highlights: A challenging trail for
experienced adventurers. A truly wilderness area with some difficult
terrain and a delightful variety of wildlife. |
| How to Get There: From San Luis Obispo,
drive south 35 miles on Highway 101 to the Betteravia exit. Turn left
(east) drive 7 miles to Santa Maria Mesa Road, turn left and proceed 4.3
miles to Tepusquet Canyon Road. Turn left again and drive 4.5 miles to
the entrance to Colson Canyon. Follow Colson Canyon road 7.8 miles to
a 2,000 foot summit. |
| Where To Park: Equestrians and cyclist may wish to use
the nearby campground or the area near the cattle guard. Avoid
blocking the road. Hikers may prefer to continue another 1.5 miles on the
dirt road to Bear Canyon Trailhead at the La Brea Road Junction. |
| Trail Character and Distance: The trail
begins with switchbacks to the ridge, then drops steeply on a shaley path
into Alejandro Canyon. The canyon broadens as the trail improves. At 3
miles is Alejandro backpackers camp. There are picnic tables and
outhouse with a view! No drinking water. Livestock water is
available at many locations along the creek. Take the south trail to
climb out of the canyon. At 3.5 miles the trail will fork. The
east fork will descend on switchback to La Brea Road near Barrel Springs
Camp. Water is available. Turn left, traveling one mile to the
Colson Canyon junction. Again turn left for a moderate 2 mile climb to
your vehicle. |
| Caution: The trail is overgrown in many places; carry
your clippers. Poison oak is rampant; wear long sleeves. A
permit is required if you plan to spend the night. To check on trail
condition, contact the Los Padres National Forest Office in Santa Maria at
925-9538. |
