Arroyo Seco Hiking

NileGuide Expert Says:

A great weekend trip. Full service camping facilities include showers and toilets. The river hike can be treacherous and requires decent stamina and an adventurous spirit. Go with a buddy.

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Description:

Don't be misled by the name - Arroyo Seco is anything but dry, although the river does disappear underground at some point before connecting to the Salinas River. The "river hike" is a truly unique experience that is recommended in warm weather for people in decent physical condition (an ability to swim and hike on slippery boulders). From the Escondido Campground make your way (a couple miles) over land to the Arroyo Seco river. Dive in and begin wading/swimming up the river. The river is mostly shallow and still as it wends its way from pool to pool through deeply carved gorges. The deeper portions require swimming. You will encounter several waterfalls – one which you will need to either climb down (through the waterfall) or jump over (about 25 feet). At one point, the canyon grows so narrow that you can reach out and touch both sides of the towering rock walls. Towards the end, the water gets very deep and piercingly blue. Wear shoes suitable for the water and pack a dry bag with potable water, snacks (energy bars), sunscreen, and goggles if you want to explore beneath the surface. As you may notice during your trek if you encounter other "hikers", bathing suits are optional. As with any wilderness hike, this trip is not entirely without risks.

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