When June Gloom Hangs On

By Tom Modugno, Goleta Surfing

So this is how the surf report looks for Goleta in the summer. Not always, but a lot. Luckily for us, we live in Paradise and have lots of other options… besides Xbox.

There is lots of nature to enjoy on all the beautiful front country trails.

And even more wonders just over the mountains.

But this day we wanted to be near the beach, so we decided to ride the fun little bike bath from El Cap to Refugio.

Starting from El Capitan State Park, it’s fun to ride through the campground and check out all the campers.

It’s no wonder El Cap gets booked up so fast, it’s a remarkable place.

The bike path starts at the “north” end of the campground. There will be a gate and a sign saying it’s closed, but there’s also a well worn trail that goes right around it. It’s been like this for years. How’s that for mixed messages…

What they’re trying to tell us is… the trail is dangerous at times and they’d rather we didn’t use it.

A small portion of the trail is built into the crumbling cliff above the beach. But if you’re careful, it’s no problem. So be careful.

It makes you wonder, if we can’t afford to afford this tiny bit of coastal trail that we already have, how are we going to maintain the 1200 mile California Coastal Trail they are working so hard to access for? But anyways…

Once you get past the sketchy parts, it’s clear sailing. And beautiful views abound.

Pedaling up the Central Coast makes you appreciate the beauty even more.

The ride is not long, but if you slow down and savor the views, it can take up some time.

Soon you’ll smell the campfires and know you’re nearing your destination.

Good ol’ Refugio. Another campground that’s booked more often than not.

We settled in for a beer to take in the ambiance.