 | Where: East of Santa Maria in the Colson
Canyon |
| Who Should Go: Hikers, Cyclist, Backpackers and
Equestrians |
| Highlights: A wondrous delight for the
naturalist. In early spring the fields are covered with shooting
stars, the stream is flowing and the meadows are green.. |
| 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 directly behind the trail sign and meanders up over a chaparral and
oak covered hillside to join a Jeep road. After 1 mile the trail
descends to a seasonal creek bed. The trail cuts band and forth across
the stream for the next 2 miles. Be alert, as the trail sometimes disappears
with fresh spring growth. This nice trail has a 300 foot elevation
gain and is three miles to the bear Camp. It is an easy walking
trail. There is much exploring to do in this area, including a 5 mile
loop north of Bear Camp. |
| Caution: 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. |
