No hike if it is raining.  Bring plenty of water.

ROCK GARDEN and White Mountain Hike– Meet at Sheffield Reservoir (Mission Ridge and Mountain Dr.) to carpool/caravan - 8:30am.  

This is a scenic hike to the Rock Garden formation of boulders and pines at the top of the Front Range above Santa Barbara.  The views are breathtaking, so bring your camera!  We will also make the short ascent to the White Mountain peak (elevation: 3804 ft.) that is rewarded by spectacular views in many directions.  We will then hike down the backside trail to East Camino Cielo Rd. and make our way down Gibraltar Rd. a short distance (~.7 mi.) to the parking area.

Directions: We will meet at the Sheffield Reservoir parking area to carpool or caravan up to the trailhead.  The trailhead is an unmarked turnoff from Gibraltar Road approximately 5.8 miles up Gibraltar Rd. from the reservoir.  It is best if we carpool or follow each other up to ensure no one gets lost.  Note: If you plan to meet us at the unmarked trailhead (not advised), the drive up Gibraltar takes approximately 17 minutes. Look for cars on the LEFT side of the road at approximately the 5.8 mile mark.

This is a strenuous hike owing to some bouldering necessary to get to the Rock Garden.  It is also recommended to wear long pants as the trail has some overgrown brush.  Dogs are ok to bring but they need to be able to do some bouldering and should be kept on leash once we reach the Rock Garden for the safety of others.

Elevation Gain: 1,500ft

Hike Length Approximately 4.5 miles - 2.5 hours

Sheffield Reservoir Map 

 Hope to see you there!