While seeking out hikes around Santa Barbara County, I kept coming across the Gaviota Wind Caves. Although the caves may seem hidden, they can be seen while driving north on the 101 toward Lompoc and Buellton before going through the Gaviota tunnel after the rest area.
Accessibility/Parking: A big perk is that the trailhead is not past the state park pay station so it's still free to hike and park without paying the fees. Exit the 101 at the Gaviota State Beach but turn right onto Hollister Ranch Road before entering the beach entrance. After passing a fenced off electrical station on your left, you'll see a service road gate with a mountain cougar warning and sign stating no dogs allowed (even though there's a lot of dog feces along the service road). Park here (https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/gaviota-wind-caves-gaviota?select=NdckM3nK-XIO-DSQgM7tcw&userid=4DyMRBKrokax6d8LCI3GAw). This is the trailhead (34.471796, -120.229655).
The Trail: The trail is not for the weak and is rated as moderate. Although it is short in distance (5 miles round-trip; 2.5 miles out and back yet with the first and last mile being on a paved service road), once you the Hiking Map Marker, the hiking path climbing up the ridge it is extremely steep (see this picture: https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/gaviota-wind-caves-gaviota?select=uQt6Pm-8SvD0rhAAp_2qbA&userid=4DyMRBKrokax6d8LCI3GAw). You will quickly realized the reason for switchbacks on other trails. There are many side trails and it can confusing to find the main trail but I recommend always veering left when in doubt...yet all the side trails eventually connect. About a three-quarters of a mile up, you'll reach one of the largest wind caves with some graffiti on it (https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/gaviota-wind-caves-gaviota?select=kMazAEDGraVJ7X6XoUfgew&userid=4DyMRBKrokax6d8LCI3GAw). Continue onward to the upper wind caves, some which are inaccessible without climbing gear. The tallest peak and wind cave features an arched geological rock window that gazes at the Gaviota Railroad Bridge. The pay off is amazing with spectacular views of the scenic Gaviota Beach with its railroad bridge, mountainous Los Padres National Forest, and curvy Freeway 101.
Sidenotes: I wouldn't recommend hiking in the rain or when it's wet since the rocky terrain crumbles beneath your feet and would easily slide. Check the weather ahead of time since high winds (hence the unique geological features) can bring storms and thick fog through the pass with little warning. Go early since there is limited shade from the hot sun, besides within the caves. Obviously, water and sturdy hiking shoes are key. read more