I’m headed toward the California coast and a beautiful image filters into view—big mountains cascading into the sea. There are few places in the world that have this setting; Santa Barbara is one of them. Standing in town, you marvel at the Santa Ynez Mountains rising steeply. It’s a dramatic and unforgettable landscape, one that you know has a boatload of amazing riding.
I won’t sugar coat it though: the trails here are demanding, requiring commitment, fitness and an appetite for adventure. Big rides are plentiful but be prepared for big climbs and big descents.
One of the best is … More