Description: The Grass Mountain Trail begins at the Trailhead at Birabent Bridge on Figueroa Mountain Drive from Los Olivos and wanders a short distance along Birabent Creek. From the creekbed it's a steady and steep uphill grind to get to the top. The payoff is beautiful views of the Figueroa Mountain area and quite possibly the best show of wildflowers that we will likely see this year. 

This is an extremely challenging hike and requires an excellent level of trail fitness due to the steep elevation gain and long distance. Bring plenty of water (at least 2-3 liters), some electrolyte replenishment and some snacks.

Directions: Contact Steve Clayton on sandlclayton@gmail.com or (805) 618-6418 if you would like to go.  We will car pool from the mission. We will take Highway 154 (San Marcos Pass) to Figueroa Mountain Road directly across from Grand Ave. in Los Olivos. Drive approximately 6.7 miles passing the entrance to Midland School at around 5 miles and continuing to the cattle guard crossing at the sharp right turn. Parking is on both sides of Figueroa Mountain Road.

This will not be a regular hike.  This is a one time hike to see the wildflowers that are spectacular this year.

Hike Leaders: Bo Kite and Steve Clayton

Detailed driving instructions if you want to go on your own schedule:

From the city of Santa Barbara on the southern California coastline 101 (or from 192), take Highway 154 and drive north for seven miles to and over San Marcos Pass. Drop down the back side and drive 14.6 miles to the junction with "Figueroa Mountain Road in the town" of Los Olivos. Take a right here and drive approximately 6.7 miles passing "Midland School" sign on your right at around the 5 mile mark.

 The road makes a sharp turn, (270 degree turn) to the right and crosses a cattle guard. Shortly after the cattle guard there is a gate. You can park here, but not too close to the gate. The trailhead is right across from the gate. There is also a large pullout parking area just before the sharp turn on the road and the cattle guard---I suggest you use this parking area, (if it gets really crowded, you can get out).

Permits are available at the trailhead. You need to fill out a permit form, leave the tear away part of the one page form in the box and put the top half on your dashboard.

The trail map is pretty good.  Also, the trail is pretty well marked with signs to Grass mountain.  Look up; you can see the triangular reddish-gold flower covered mountain from 20 miles away on 154!  You can hike as far as you want with great photo ops even if you don’t go anywhere near the top.