I’m thinking of doing a little trip from LA to Ventura and then to Santa Barbara, here’s a link to a draft route I put together after doing a bit of research: [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45181504](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45181504)
I’ll be on a gravel bike with 50mm tires. I’m planning to have panniers and a handlebar bag so it won’t be a particularly light setup. If anyone who has ridden in these areas sees this, it would be great if you could let me know what you think of my route. One important thing to note is that this won’t really be a true ‘bikepacking’ trip. I’ll be carrying all my shit, but i’m planning to just split it into two big days and crash at friends’ places – one in Ventura, and one in SB. I’ll also be taking several days between the two rides, so will be well rested. In particular I’m wondering about water and road quality. I’ve heard it can be tough to find places to fill up in this area.
by j3k16b94
4 Comments
That section through from Ojai to Camino cielo is pretty tough but you’ll probably find water. That’s a pretty stout effort.
I’ve been up Gibraltar road on a bike which looks like you would be coming down as you head into Santa Barbara. It’s a beautiful road but steep and technical, it’s about 10 miles long and averages more that 7% grade. I don’t know the roads outside of that, but that’s seems to be a challenging route from Venture to SB for one day on a loaded bike. Love to find out more from others as well.
I don’t know when you’re planning this trip, but that route from Matilija Hot Springs to Camino Cielo is frequently washed out in the rainy season and beyond, and deadly hot and devoid of water in the summer. Lots of ticks too, but they won’t kill you. You’ll need up to date trail and water information before setting out. You may also be underestimating how long it will take to ride that section. Be prepared to spend the night at a wilderness campsite. Contact the Forest Service and the [Mob Shop](https://www.themobshop.com) bicycle store in Ojai for information. The Mob Shop sponsors the Gravel Mob Fondo in Ojai every year.
https://www.themobshop.com
Do you want to go bikepacking or bicycle touring?