Los Padres National Forest Hike(edit)

Piedra Blanca Trailhead to Pine Mountain Lodge Campsite: Although this is a well used trail, above the Twin Forks campsite I had the tail all to myself (and the bears). The last 1.5 miles of the trail leading to the Pine Mountain Lodge Campsite were very grueling, but worth every step. About 1800 feet of elevation gain in the last three-quarters of a mile to a mile before the saddle. This hike treats you to the natural wonders of the Piedra Blanca formations and the serenity of listening to the wind as it passes through the tall trees at the Pine Mountain Lodge Campsite. The Piedra Blanca Creek had a respectable flow. The creek crossings were just a matter of rock hopping and avoiding the poison oak. Fresh bear scat next to the trash bins at the trail head and at a few spots along the trail just below the ridge line were wonderful reminders of mother nature's presence.