Come explore the Santa Barbara backcountry in the San Rafael Wilderness.
4/27 Meet at 8:30am at Nira campground . Hike about 6.5 miles with 1,500’ gain to Manzana Narrows and setup camp. Hang out. There is a creek by camp. The weather should be warm enough to take a dip.
4/28 Pack up and hike out the same way. Optional lunch stop in Santa Barbara
The trail requires several creek crossings which are usually less than knee deep. May also be able to rock hop.
Trail may be brushy.
Ticks can be common-spray you and your gear
Rattlesnake sightings are also possible depending on how warm it is
Should be able to catch the last of the wildflowers blooming.
Road conditions: Cars can make the last few miles of dirt road but higher clearance is recommended. There are usually a few dips in the road to maneuver.
Travel options: Stay at my place in Oxnard Friday night. Leave at about 6:30am Saturday morning for the 2hr drive
OR
Car camp along the dirt road or at Nira campground at the trailhead.
Directions: Hwy 101 north to Hwy 154. From Hwy 154: right turn on Armour Ranch Rd./ Happy Canyon Rd. 11 miles northeast to Cachuma Saddle, Sunset Valley Rd. 6 miles north. The road dead-ends at Nira campground
Resources:
https://www.hikelospadres.com/manzana-narrows-campground.html
https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/lpnf/recreation/recarea/?recid=11130&actid=51
https://www.gaiagps.com/hike/348294/manzana-narrows-camp-via-manzana-trail/
DISCLAIMER: Hike at your own risk. Be responsible for yourself and your safety. Make good decisions. With any trip, things can change, reservations can get lost, the unexpected can happen. A go-with-the-flow attitude is always a good thing, and most importantly, let’s all have fun! This is an easy hike. Make sure you are in good enough physical shape for the distance, elevation changes, and terrain. The hike leaders in this group aren’t professional hike leaders. By signing up for these events, you agree not to hold the Meetup organizers responsible for whatever happens to you on these events. The hiking group does not certify the expertise of the organizers, the event or assistant organizers (hike leaders) and…We are NOT responsible for any possible losses or injuries.
