Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
CHAPTER
fifteen
Los Padres Dam
M
OST OF THE NORTHERN
S
ANTA
L
UCIA
R
ANGE
drains into the Carmel River. Above
Los Padres Dam, the river flows as a small creek from the Church Creek Divide into
Pine Valley, where it joins the waters from Pine Ridge, Ventana Cone, Uncle Sam
Mountain, and Elephant Mountain. Before the dam was built, steelhead trout would
migrate upstream from the Pacific to spawn. Landlocked rainbow trout still inhabit
deep pools upstream. Two routes lead from the dam into the Carmel River watershed,
each geared toward different seasons.
The Carmel River Trail offers a gentle descent south into the lush canyon, skirting
the riverbanks and crossing several times. This popular route is ideal between May
and October, when temperatures can soar into the 90s Fahrenheit. Sheltered beneath a
shady riparian forest, the river offers drinking water and several refreshing swimming
holes. In fall the colors are spectacular, low water makes for easier boulder hopping,
and the fly, tick, and mosquito populations have diminished. Don't attempt this route
after periods of heavy rain, as the river may be swift and dangerous to cross.
When the river is swelled, opt for the westbound Big Pines Trail, which leads to
winter camps. Ambitious hikers can continue south toward Ventana Double Cone or
west toward Bottchers Gap for a ridgetop circuit of the northern Ventana Wilderness.
Breathtaking views abound.
