Beach to Backcountry Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Cave · Views

This is a short and popular trail, using a well-worn but steep path up to the wind eroded sandstone caves, overlooking Gaviota Beach.

There is very little shade until you get to the first wind tunnel. There are both rocky and loose sand sections. Ankles and knees might take a little bit of a pounding!

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.

Grass, bush, dirt and rock trails.