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Sam D.
Thanks, Rick. How far is the hike to Litlle and Big Caliente from where one can park? I can not find the places mentioned on my maps.

Hi again Sam, isn't it great that they finally got the road open down the mountain? Middle Santa Ynez campground is located at the junction of Forest Road 5N15 (the one you take all the way down the mountain) and Forest Road 5N16. To get to Big Caliente, it will be a 2.6 mile one way walk or bike from Middle Santa Ynez campground along Forest Service Road 5N16. It's flat, so hiking or biking is easy. Don't forget to bring your tools and any fittings you may need to fix the pipe at the Big Caliente concrete tub. I'll be happy to split the parts cost with you.

Litle Caliente is a lot further from Middle Santa Ynez. The gate is closed so you can't drive in. It's a 5.5 mile hike or bike. I've taken my mountain bike there several times when the gate is closed. It takes too long to hike in.

If I was you, I'd focus on visiting Big Caliente only. I'm going to be in Santa Barbara for only one day later in Sept, but I may try to extend to come over the mountain to the springs. Will keep you posted.