Wild places > Central Coast: Regional Map

San Rafael Potential Wilderness Additions

Managing agency: Los Padres National Forest

Size: Approximately 67,041 acres.

Location: In Santa Barbara County. The Santa Cruz proposed addition is 15 miles north of Santa Barbara. The Moon Canyon proposed addition is 40 miles northwest of Santa Barbara. The Fox Mountain proposed addition is 40 miles north of Santa Barbara.

Description:

• Provides critical habitat for threatened and endangered species including California condor, southern steelhead, arroyo toad, California red-legged frog, least Bell's vireo, and blunt-nosed leopard lizard, San Joaquin kit fox, Smith's blue butterfly, southwestern pond turtle, southwestern willow flycatcher, and others.
• Little Pine Peak is a popular destination spot for hikers and equestrian riders.
• Hiking distance from the Santa Ynez National Recreation Area.
• East and West Fork of Santa Cruz Creek are major tributaries for the Santa Ynez River and urban water supplies.
• Moon Canyon and Fox Mountain have been designated as Areas of High Ecological Significance by U.S. Forest Service.
• Very wild, few trails, completely undisturbed habitat for many species.
• Lion Canyon was initial release point for reintroduction of endangered California condor.

The Santa Cruz Canyon proposed addition to the San Rafael Wilderness and the East and West Forks of Santa Cruz Creek are incredible treasures within Santa Barbara County. This area includes Little Pine Mountain, a very popular backpacking destination with 360-degree views of interior valleys, the Santa Barbara Channel Islands and the Pacific Ocean. Steep cliffs over 1000 feet tall, boulder strewn creeks, dense chaparral, peaceful oak woodlands and expansive grasslands all combine to make for a complete wilderness experience. The area is adjacent to the Santa Ynez National Recreation Area and sees thousands of visitors each year. The wilderness includes many trails and unimproved campgrounds that are popular weekend getaways. Signs of bears, mountain lions, bobcats and other species can be found everywhere.

The Moon Canyon and Fox Mountain proposed additions to the San Rafael Wilderness are found on the north slope of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range. Upon its slope the cool, moist climates of the north combine with the warm, dry climates to the south creating incredible biodiversity. Spacious native grasslands with oak woodlands offer needed foraging habitat for the endangered California condor. These majestic birds can be found soaring on thermals in this area throughout the year. In addition, the many weather-sculpted rock formations provide important nesting areas for the condor as well as raptors like the peregrine falcon. The great San Joaquin Valley, Cuyama Valley, and the interior high desert are all visible from the wilderness area. The wildflower displays in late February and early March are breathtaking and many people make the long drive to see the springtime sights.

For additional information, please contact:
Erin Duffy California Wild Heritage Campaign
Phone: (805) 564-2460
Email: calwild_sb@yahoo.com