Mision Santa Maria Dunes

Trail Overview

This trail offers a challenging off-road adventure through deep sand, running parallel to the coast and ending near Highway One. Starting as a narrow path suitable only for motorcycles and ATVs, the route features rolling deep sand sections before transitioning to a smoother, hard-packed surface. Along the way, you'll pass an intriguing abandoned two-story building and navigate through smooth, flat areas that could be submerged during high tides but are typically drivable. As the trail nears the ocean, you'll encounter diverse birdlife and find yourself on a wider road accessible to four-wheeled vehicles. This road skirts a two-story blue house and runs behind sand dunes, eventually making a sharp turn towards Highway One. Adventurous drivers may choose to cross the dunes at various points to drive along the ocean, but caution is advised, as the sand can become deep and challenging, with some areas firmer than others.

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Difficulty

This route includes stretches of deep sand and low-lying areas that become more difficult during unusually high tides. The dune sections running alongside the ocean can either be a smooth ride with properly aired-down tires or turn into a recovery headache. Wind constantly reshapes the dunes, erasing tracks overnight, so be cautious of soft patches in the sand. You can opt for a shorter path over the dunes to reach the beach, where the surface near the tide is firmer. If water covers the flat, vegetated areas, proceed carefully or choose an alternate route. Some sections are narrow, making them suitable only for motorcycles and slim ATVs.

Technical Rating