Unlike Humphrey Bogart, we’ll have no fear of bandits and corrupt federales, and we’ll even stay on this side of the border as we seek out the springtime treasures of the Sierra Madre Mountains, the rugged backbone of the 149,170-acre San Rafael Wilderness, deep in the Santa Barbara backcountry. Rushing rivers and green meadows full of wildflowers will greet us. On our four day foray, we’ll explore mysterious caves painted with ancient native American art as well as the deep canyon and impressive waterfalls of the federally-designated “Wild and Scenic” Sisquoc River, and we’ll even skirt the northerly edge of the Sisquoc Condor Sanctuary, scanning the skies for the big primeval birds.

This will be a very strenuous backpack, covering 44 miles in four days at an aggressive pace over challenging terrain, so this trip is suitable only for experienced backpackers in very good shape. We’ll cheerfully face the possibility of bushwhacking, several shin- to thigh-deep stream crossings, ticks, rattlesnakes fresh from hibernation, and abundant poison oak and stinging nettles. Signup preference will be given to GayOutdoors “Full Members”. Per-person cost of $85 (carpool gas & mileage) must be pre-paid and will be refunded only if the leader cancels or if a replacement signup is found. This is a consciously low-impact outing, so carpool participation is required.

This trip is strictly dependent upon a favorable weather forecast. A National Weather Service forecast of rain within 72 hours of our start will cancel this trip, as will fewer than four confirmed and paid signups as of 8:00pm, Monday, April 11. This trip will be by individual commissary, and we’re not planning any potluck meals, so please plan to provide your own four-day supply of food.

We’ll meet up to consolidate our carpool in Camarillo (Pleasant Valley Road x US101) at 7:00am (SHARP!) on the morning of Thursday, April 14 in preparation for our long (2-hour) carpool to the trailhead. L.A.-based hikers should plan on leaving L.A. no later than 6:00am.