Franklin Trail, 20 Mile 6200’ Climb, Night Descent, A Challenging Hike

This is a socializing hike to explore in beautiful and exciting nature, and get a great workout. The Franklin Trail in Carpinteria, ascends 4000’ in about 8 miles to the mountain top ridgeline, then descends down to Santa Ynez River and Lake Jameson in the back country, passing by Alder Creek Camp. Mid March should be the beginning of the wildflower season and the end of the more heavy rain season. This should be the most beautiful and suitable time of the year for this strenuous day-long hike.

In January 2025, after a 5.8 mile walk with a group at Carpinteria Bluff, I solo hiked the Franklin Trail to the mountain top for sun setting, and descended in the dark with a headlamp. I have been wanting to hike the entire 20 mile stretch, curious to see and explore Santa Ynez River, Lake Jameson, and the back country.

This hike is only for those that are super passionate about hiking and exploring, can handle the physical & mental demand, and have effective outdoor survival skills. Equipped and prepared to descend the trail and back to civilization at night with a headlamp, after watching the sun setting on the mountain top ridge.

Link to a very basic video on Franklin Trail in January, my last trip there:
https://youtu.be/BPjh-B3EsLw?si=RXOAe0-Sz77PZ6UG

If you are also passionate about hiking & exploring in beautiful nature, committed to health, fitness & vitality, and meet the quality below by self assessment, you are welcome to join.

Mindset: adventurous yet very safety conscious, self responsible & self accountable, continuous self improvement, intellectually curious, independent thinking, open-minded worldview, proactive, continuing self improvement & can do attitude

Personality & Character: authentic, sincere, down to earth, enthusiastic, cheerful, good sense of humor, cordial and pleasant to chat with, effective in communicating

Ability: assess & manage all risks effectively, carry on meaningful conversation

Physical & Mental: healthy & fit for hiking & exploring, mentally & emotionally sound

Experience & Skill: rocky & uneven terrain hiking, some scrambling, bush whacking, creek crossing

Distance & Ascent: 20 miles, 6200’ Workout in Beautiful Nature

Supply & Equipment: adequate hydration, food, reliable headlamp with sufficient runtime, water filter, windbreaker in case of night survival, navigation apps, basic first aid and outdoor survival kit

Trailhead: Franklin Trailhead

Note: to minimize spamming the general memberships of Santa Barbara Adventure People, events organized by me would not be announced. If my adventures align with your interest, you will have to proactively check the site. My events may also show up on search & recommendation algorithms.

Liability Waiver
By RSVPing and participating in this event, you acknowledge that outdoor adventures carry risks (injury, illness, accidents, etc.) and agree that you are solely responsible for your own safety, health, wellbeing, and belongings. The organizer(s) and co-hosts are not liable for any loss, damage, or injury. By joining, you agree to the full terms and conditions.