patrick
By SB Pat
We went for a long run on Sunday, from the Red Rock day-use area, and thought readers might enjoy a few pictures of Gibraltar Dam and the surrounding area, so, with that in mind, here they are. The reservoir seems fairly full, the creeks and river are running and the hills are turning green. It is about 3 miles from the parking area to the dam, and another couple of miles to the Sunbird mine. Beautiful day in the backcountry.
First good look at the backcountry, after leaving the Red Rock parking area on Gibraltar Road (above photo).
Gibraltar Dam and reservoir:
Closer to the dam:
Looking back, from near where Gibraltar Trail diverges from Gibraltar Road:
This way to the abandoned Sunbird mercury mine:
Looking over the abandoned mine machinery and debris:
The mine entrance, secured with steel bars (and a bat warning sign):
The upper reaches of the reservoir, where the water gives way to vegetation:
A look back along the reservoir, from the shallow end:
Minor bouldering on the trail:
So nice to see water in the Santa Ynez River, complete with deep pools:
