FJ Cruisers of Northern California

Pozo / La Panza

I was wondering if anyone has any experience of the Pozo / La Panza area in the Los Padres National Forest? It's not really "norcal" but it's closer than the Sierra Foothills - 2.5-3 hrs driving.

I was there at the weekend and did some of the trails but had to cut my trip short (for unrelated reasons). There's a spectacular view from Black Mountain (~3500 feet). I also did a little of the Las Chiches trail, which has a 30-35 degree slope at each end.

I'd love to hear from someone who has more experience, especially anyone who has done the whole of Las Chiches or tried the Stair Steps in an FJ.

John

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Permalink Reply by potatomutato on August 21, 2013 at 10:41pm

i think we did Las Chiches a few years back during SnT and it was a nice trail. we stopped at the rock formation and climbed up and enjoyed the views. we could see the other group getting pinstripes on Garcia Ridge. we stopped at Pozo Saloon on the way back to the dunes. i took a few pics, but mostly enjoyed the trails. i would ping some of the StepCal folks...they've done several runs down there and even adopted a trail i believe.

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Permalink Reply by Sonof40 on August 22, 2013 at 8:36am

LOL I remember that.

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Permalink Reply by LuvDirt • (Keith) on August 22, 2013 at 10:43pm

I've done the Garcia Ridge Trail, and a few unmarked trails in the area. Whatever you do, don't follow GPS. Get a map and or trail book for the area. GPS tried to kill me a couple times up there.

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Permalink Reply by NyNomad on August 24, 2013 at 11:12am

Pozo is Step~Cal country! the Stairs can not be done unless in a very heavy modified FJ, i would say minimum tire size 35" tires but that might not be enough. It's awesome on a dh bike though! The rest of the Pine Mt. trail can be done with a stock FJ ( skid Plates recommended) and do not travel alone! The Garcia Ridge Trail has been smoothed down. Not as technical as it once was but there is a fun little rock climbing section.