Boulder Canyon to Sespe Hot Springs

This route is for the backpacker who is interested in a longer and more diverse trip to reach the hot springs along the Sespe Canyon. At 73.5 miles across terrain that is at times quite steep, this route is relatively difficult and should be attempted by experienced backpackers. This is an out-and-back trip, starting and ending at Boulder Canyon Trailhead at Ozena Fire Station, just off Highway 33. 

From the trailhead at Ozena Fire Station (just off Highway 33), Boulder Canyon Trail is a steep, exposed climb up to join Reyes Peak Road. The route follows the dirt road for about two miles to Reyes Peak Trailhead. From here Reyes Peak is just under a mile, and our route continues on to follow the singletrack along the ridge to Haddock Mountain. Note that the weather up on this ridge can be much different than the weather down on Highway 33. There are excellent views in all directions from the mountain summits. We descend from Haddock Mountain to Haddock Camp. As of this writing (Fall of 2025), there is a brief, but tough patch of buckthorn to push through on this descent. From Haddock Camp, follow the trail (which can seem to disappear at creek crossings) to the edge of the massif, near Pine Mountain Lodge Camp where we begin a more sharp descent. The Piedra Blanca Trail drops from here, following the North Fork of Piedra Blanca Creek. There is a nice view of the Topatopa Mountains straight ahead along this descent. We join the Sespe River Trail around mile 23, which we follow as it winds along Sespe Canyon until reaching the canyon in which the hot springs are located.

It is extremely important to note that trail conditions in Los Padres vary drastically from season to season and year to year. Check hikelospadres.com for the most updated trail conditions and water reports, and please share your trip reports on the site upon your return so that everyone can safely explore this wonderful area. This area can be extremely dry and hot, as well as extremely wet and cold. Be prepared! Additionally, check https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/lospadres for current information and important updates in Los Padres National Forest.