Arroyo Seco Trailhead

Facility · California ·

Managed by the USDA Forest Service

Los Padres National Forest (NF) · Open Access

1,030 ft
Elevation

This trailhead offers access to the popular area of the Arroyo Seco River known as The Gorge and is notable for the long string of swimming holes with crystal clear water flowing through narrow rock walls.  This spot also allows hikers to enter the Ventana Wilderness along the Marble Peak Trail leading to backcountry camps such as Willow Springs and Strawberry.

Area amenities: Parking, picnic table, water hydrant, portable toilets.

Getting there

36.23410, -121.48740 · 36°14'2.8"N 121°29'14.6"W

Directions (Google Maps) · Directions (Apple Maps)

Typical weather

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
High °F————————————
Low °F————————————
Precip in6.96.54.71.91.00.10.00.00.10.92.65.0

1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 9.7 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.

Map

Member photos

Common questions about Arroyo Seco Trailhead

Can you reserve a site at Arroyo Seco Trailhead?
No. Arroyo Seco Trailhead is not reservable through Recreation.gov, so sites are first-come, first-served or booked elsewhere.

Camping near Arroyo Seco Trailhead

Comments

Contact

Recreation.gov last updated this record on 2026-02-25.

Facility information and photographs from Recreation.gov (RIDB). SpotOpened is not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.