Near Beach to Backcountry Trail
Near Beach to Backcountry Trail
Near Beach to Backcountry Trail
Near Beach to Backcountry Trail
Near Beach to Backcountry Trail

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Beach to Backcountry Trail

3.5 (2 Ratings)
A short, yet steep route leading up to the wind eroded sandstone caves overlooking Gaviota Beach.
3.3
mi
Distance
1,079
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingCaveFamily FriendlyLess CrowdedViews

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
3.31mi
Distance
1,079ft
Elevation Gain
1,079ft
Elevation Loss
--%
Max Grade
886ft
High Point
20ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
The trailhead starts at the parking area adjacent to and up from Gaviota Beach. Begin your journey on the service road, and head away from the beach. Where the trail up to the wind tunnels splits from the service road you'll find an information board with local routes and trails.From the kiosk, the trail will lead you up the mountain through a patch of grassland and up steep inclines. The off-road trail starts with a steep dirt incline, but once past that you'll ease into a more gradual incline.Once you get up the first steep climb, there is a place to stop and enjoy the views overlooking Gaviota Beach and Gaviota Rest Stop and Peak, plus the 101 Freeway. It's the top of the first hill; take the trail to the right for great views, and to the left through some boulders to continue upward toward the tunnels. There are several wind tunnels around so, explore. Many visitors will make this the end of their journey, but the trail continues just a little way further.This trail connects with other trails that lead further into the mountain and park.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
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Contributors
Johan van den Heever