Hike Carpinteria Bluffs to Salt Marsh Nature Park then Lunch

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We'll be hiking the Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve Trail into Carpinteria to Salt Marsh Park, then back into town for lunch--easy 'backpack sack lunch' at the State Beach shaded picnic area. Or grab something at The Spot to eat at the State Beach. Then we'll walk back to our cars.

Once again, Diane will be helping me out on this event. My surgically repaired knee may not make it to Salt Marsh Park, so I'll probably relax by The Spot while Diane leads on.

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More Information on Marsh Park:

"The Salt Marsh, also known as El Estuaro, is one of the most important wetlands in Southern California. This beautiful, relatively unspoiled estuary is home to rare and endangered plants and birds. It is a haven for migrating birds, the foundation for much of the local food chain, as well as a nursery for marine fish."

The hike: Easy, flat dirt trail followed by sidewalk. The total out and back distance is a bit under 5 miles. Along the way we'll stop to observe the sea lion rookery. And along most of the walk, there will be ocean vista views to remind you of one of the reasons you live in California and not North Dakota. The absence of snow and ice will remind you of another reason.

Your [leashed] dog is welcome. Note that dogs are not allowed in Marsh Park, so if you bring your dog, you'll need to contract with someone to hold the leash while you take turns in the rather small park.

Directions for getting to the trail head: To Carpinteria Bluffs Trail and Nature Preserve. Head Northbound on the 101 Freeway. (Passing the State Beach/Emma Wood Camp Ground) from Ventura, go about 12 miles to the Bailard Ave. Exit in Carpinteria (shortly after Rincon/Mussel Shoals Curve). Turn left (toward the beach) at the Bailard Exit and go straight--Bailard dead ends into the Carpinteria Bluffs Trail dirt parking lot. Meet in the parking lot 9:30 am. Parking is free.

Map to Carpenteria Bluffs Parking Lot (https://goo.gl/maps/Bc3Zj)

The Spot is a long-time Carpinteria landmark. It's a hamburger joint. At least if your family comes from the Carpinteria area, it's your grandfather's place or your great grandfather's place. Founded in 1914, this is year 105. It must be doing something right.

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