Paint Out

 MONDAY

June 12, 2023 9:30 AM - 1 PM

Arroyo Hondo Preserve

By Colin Schildhauer

GPS: CA-1, Goleta, CA 93117

The Arroyo Hondo Preserve is located west of Goleta between Refugio State Beach and Gaviota State Park. It consists of 782 acres of pristine natural space offering an abundance of micro habitats that embody the Gaviota coast. With the Santa Ynez Mountains to the North and the Great Pacific Ocean to the south, enjoy a bounty of beautiful vistas offering views of the channel islands juxtaposed by sedimentary rocky outcroppings and towering peaks. After a sharp exit off the 101 freeway, you’ll slowly descend into the canyon, muting the rumble of cars from above and into a quiet haven immersed in nature. Artistic endeavors can be found convenient as our meeting spot at the barn. For those eager to get their steps in, there’s a multitude of trailheads begging to be explored. Meander your way up the Arroyo Hondo creek trails experiencing riparian habitat shaded by lofty canopies of Sycamore trees. Venture further and stumble across meadows vibrating with Spring colors and buzzing pollinators. For those feeling adventurous, wander further, where you will begin to ascend into groves of ancient oak trees, yuccas, and fields of sage.

Please tune your sensors to high and settle into your work quietly as the local wildlife begins to accept your presence. It’s not uncommon to be visited by various bird species, curious squirrels, amphibians, reptiles, and if you’re lucky the elusive Bobcat. Arroyo Hondo is protected forever and managed by the Land Trust as a natural and historic preserve, rich in Chumash and early California history. Please enjoy your time creating art, stick to the trails, and pack all your trash.

Directions

Traveling northbound on the U.S. Highway 101:   The Preserve is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Santa Barbara. Approximately 4 miles past Refugio State Beach, you will see a blue “Rest Area in 7 miles” sign, followed closely by a yellow warning sign about falling rocks. The entrance to Arroyo Hondo is in 1/2 mile and will be visible on the right at the bottom of the hill. Make a right-hand turn into the driveway. Come down the driveway, cross the bridge on the right and park near the barn.

Traveling southbound on the U.S. Highway 101:   Approximately 4.8 miles past Gaviota State Park and 1/2 mile after the Vista Point Rest Area, move to the left lane. Using the left-hand turn lane, make a U-turn onto the northbound lanes of the U.S. Highway 101. In 1/4 mile, you will see a blue “Rest Area in 7 miles” sign followed closely by a yellow sign warning sign about falling rocks. The entrance to Arroyo Hondo is in 1/2 mile and will be visible on the right at the bottom of the hill. Make a right-hand turn into the driveway. Come down the driveway, cross the bridge on the right and park near the barn.