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SANTA YNEZ MOUNTAINS The Santa Ynez Mountains run east to west between the coastal city of Santa Barbara, and the Santa Ynez Valley. Elevations are gentle -- cresting at 2225 feet -- and this, along with the coastal influence makes for moderate temperatures, mild summers, and warm (though often wet) winters. Vistas include the Pacific Ocean to the south, and Cachuma Lake with the Santa Ynez Valley to the north. Much of the land is a part of Los Padres National Forest. However, there are a few select residential neighborhoods, and occasionally properties become [available].
Highway 154 runs from Santa Barbara, up over the Santa Ynez Mountains, and back down past Cachuma Lake, and into Santa Ynez. The top of the mountain pass is called the "San Marcos Pass", and locals refer to the half hour drive to Santa Barbara (or vice versa) as "going over the Pass."
As you head over the Pass, going from Santa Ynez to Santa Barbara, you will pass Cachuma Lake www.sbparks.org . With extraordinarily scenic ambiance, Cachuma Lake is one of the most popular tourist attractions for fishing, boating, and camping (no swimming.)
Near the top of the pass is a wonderful restaurant called "Cold Spring Tavern." www.coldspringtavern.com . Once a stage coach stop, the wood frame structure still carries all charm of yesteryear. The setting is woodsy and rustic. A roaring woodburning fireplace is the only source of heat, and the bathroom is an "outhouse" (with modern plumbing.) Pictures from days gone by adorn the walls, and sounds of the bubbling cold spring itself fill the atmosphere. The food is fabulous -- and you never know what wild game meat may be on as the daily special (maybe buffalo, or venison, elk, or bear!)
Maps and Photos of Highway 154 www.sbc-rides.com
Stories of the San Marcos Pass by Ewan Kummel www.rain.org
San Marcos Pass History www.sblifestyle.com
Fire Safety www.firedept.net
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