Revisiting Santa Barbara Back Country

Tom and Martha recently celebrated the first day of spring with a backcountry ride-adventure on their Tandem.

Tom knows this area well as it was the first race in the NORBA circuit back in 1983.  This later NORBA flyer features a photo of Tom from the first epic race where Steve Tilford won the 1st NORBA National Championship.

That race started at Rancho Oso, near the Paradise Road river crossing and went about 1/2 way up to the ridgeline at Camino Cielo before doubling back down. December in Northern California means rain...and lots of it fell during this race turning it into a massive mud-fest. The day was tough and only a handful finished the race that day.

Tom and Martha set out for a 3 and a half hour ride covering some of the same trails down in Santa Barbara. They began at Paradise Ridge and Old Stage Road and rolled clockwise into the Santa Ynez River Valley. From there they crossed over the Paradise River and hit the long climb of the day up to Camino Cielo. Every climb comes with a reward, beautiful views and a nice downhill to the 154 junction  of the Old Stage Road.

Wonderful company, trails, weather and views made it a great way to welcome in Spring. 

Here are some photos from the ride.  Enjoy!