Road and gravel ride from Santa Barbara to Solvang

Santa Barbara to Solvang by Gravel Bike | Old San Marcos Pass, Painted Cave Road, Camino Cielo & Refugio Road 45 miles. 6,100 feet of climbing. One unforgettable day in the Santa Barbara backcountry. Started a little late on one of the hottest days in February and paid the price while climbing Old San Marcos Pass Road and Painted Cave Road. Cooled down on the ridge and I made it over to Lizards mouth via, first East Camino Cielo, then Kinevan Road, and finally climbing back up about 1000 feet on West Camino Cielo. The dirt section of West Camino is getting worse and worse, to the point where I was happy climbing it and not descending. (45mm tires, no suspension). Lots of dirt bikes zooming around and incredible views framed by green hills, overall incredible. Took a lot longer than I anticipated, and I boogied down the "paved" section of West Camino. Be careful, they dumped a bunch of loose gravel on the road. Absolutely epic scenery, especially with afternoon light. Refugio Road is officially closed, but no problem on the bike with proper handling skills, just don't fall off at the washouts. Early springtime delivered an amazing drop into the Santa Ynez Valley, and I learned something new when I discovered the bike path going along the 246 into Solvang. It's a bit of a challenge, but one of the most epic rides around here! From nothing comes Nothing... 🚵 Route Highlights: Old San Marcos Pass → Painted Cave Road → East Camino Cielo → Kinevan Road → West Camino Cielo → Refugio Road → Solvang 📊 Stats: Distance: 45 miles Elevation Gain: 6,100 ft Conditions: Hot for February, rough gravel on West Camino Cielo, trail-like descent on Refugio Here is the Strava:   / strava