Category Archives: Santa Barbara

Lower Lion Canyon, Sierra Madre Mountains

Squaring off with the sun in the foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains in 96 degree heat. I like to see it for myself. When looking at a map of the forest I want to know what each particular attraction … Continue reading

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Alligator Pears First Successfully Introduced To USA In Santa Barbara

Morning dew on an avocado leaf in my small backyard orchard. “. . .the avocado became definitely established [in California] through the introduction of three trees from Mexico in 1871 by Judge R. B. Ord of Santa Barbara. Two of … Continue reading

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Fish Falls, Santa Ynez Mountains

The large emerald pool below Fish Falls might be the best summertime swimming hole on the frontside of the Santa Ynez Mountains in Santa Barbara County. It’s deep enough to dive into from the top of the waterfall, if you’re … Continue reading

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Arrowhead Springs, Drought Resistant Summer Seep

The Chumash pictograph panel at Arrowhead Springs. The arrowhead-shaped mineral stain surrounding the rock art points down to a spring issuing from under the boulder. Santa Barbara county-wide precipitation for the 2013-14 water year stands at 41 percent of normal … Continue reading

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Calochortus Fimbriatus, Rare Wildflower

Calochortus fimbriatus, the late-flowered Mariposa lily, is in bloom at the moment in the Santa Ynez Mountains. A patch of the flowers thrives in the droughty dryness and summertime heat on a south facing rocky hillside at this particular location. … Continue reading

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