Caliente Ridge

Approach

Follow the directions in the Getting There section of the main page. There is parking for a dozen cars in the lot, and the trailhead is marked on the far east side across the dirt road. The road to this trailhead is opened by the BLM from April to November except when rains make the road impassable. Check with the BLM office in Bakersfield for current status if unsure (phone number is on the main page).

Route Description

The first quarter mile is a narrow trail that connects to the wide, graded dirt road that follows the ridgeline. Follow the the road for 8 miles southeast to the summit. It's difficult to get lost. There is only 1600ft of elevation gain along the whole route, which gently climbs along the ridge towards the highpoint with a few saddles along the way. The views are unobstructed on two sides - the left side looking down to the Carrizo Plain and further north to the Diablo Range, and the right side looking down to the Cuyuma Valley to the south and the Transverse Range beyond. Sagebrush and scrub oak line the thirsty hillsides along with native and non-native grasses, browned in the summer heat.

Essential Gear

None required, any sturdy shoes, including sneakers will do. Carry plenty of water on hot days. There are no services for miles around.

Miscellaneous Info

If you have information about this route that doesn't pertain to any of the other sections, please add it here.