No Hike if it is Raining

Sweetwater Trail at Lake Cachuma

9:00 am Friday, January 5, 2024

Set amidst acres of wilderness flanked by the picturesque Santa Ynez and San Rafael Mountains lies glimmering Lake Cachuma. This route will take us along the edge of this lake, offering spectacular views along the entire way. We will begin at  the Bradbury Dam Overlook. The 5-mile out-and-back trail is generally considered a moderately challenging route and will take about 2.5 hours to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, camping, and fishing. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.  

The route was muddy when we hiked it recently and there were some slippery spots.  We had to navigate around some standing water, requiring some very brief and light climbing.  Wear long pants and sleeves as the brush is overgrown at some spots.  

Here is a map of the trail. 

Directions:  here is Map link to the parking area and trailhead.  We will meet at the Sweetwater trailhead at the Cachuma Lake Vista Point.  Go north on the 101 from SB and exit onto 154W/San Marco Pass Road.  Proceed 20.3 miles to the Cachuma Lake Vista Point exit on the right where there is plenty of free parking. The Cachuma Lake Vista exit is after the signs for the Lake Cachuma Recreation Area.

If there's time afterwards, some hikers may stop at the Hook restaurant, close to the mid-point of our hike, but easy to find on our way back to Rte. 154. Great burgers, vegetarian grilled cheese and draft beer (and more).  Another lunch option is the Cold Springs Tavern on our way back to SB.

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