 | Where: The Paradise area of the Santa Ynez
Valley |
| Who Should Go: Hikers and Picnickers |
| Highlights: An easy hike that leads to
several year round swimming holes |
| How to Get There: From San Luis Obispo,
drive south on Highway 101 to
Highway 154, head east for 15 miles towards Santa Barbara. Turn Right
on Paradise Road. Drive to the end of the road. It is 10.7 miles
and over several river crossings. |
| Where to Park: In the large parking lot adjacent to
the trail which begins at the locked gate. |
| Trail Character and Distance: The trail is
wide and flat for 1/4 mile, then zigzags from bank to bank along the
river. There are several dry and wet river crossings depending on the
time of the year. The trail passes through oak woodland and offers
many wildlife viewing opportunities. The ecological diversity of the
area creates a variety of bid like. Three miles of river trail brings
you to the Gibralter Dam Picnic Area. Return to the trailhead on the
road from the dam or retrace your steps along the river bed. |
| Caution: Observe the warning signs at the dam and stay
out of the restricted areas. |
