Geology Exploration of the Upper Santa Ynez River
Field Trip with Susie Bartz
Saturday, December 13 , 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Advance Registration required at
synature@west.net or 693-5683
Participation is limited to 20
Members free/nonmembers $20

This trip will be a combination of driving and walking. Starting with an orientation near the first river crossing on Paradise Road, we will continue, with stops along the way, to the area around Red Rock. The Santa Ynez River is a braided meander belt that finds its way along the north side of the Santa Ynez Mountain ridge, flowing west to the ocean at Lompoc. We’ll be exploring the river near the harsh convergence of the Little Pine and Santa Ynez faults. There, the river cuts a sinuous route through rock layers whose steep folds reflect intense tectonic compression. Within the faulted area, springs and mineralization of fault-gouged rocks enrich both their color and their composition. The river’s natural meanders and its dam impoundments impact its flow patterns through this dynamic landscape. Up-tilted rocks expose algal limestones – rare for the Santa Barbara area – and marine fossils that record their ancient marine origin.
Plan for 8-10 miles of driving, round trip, and several miles of walking on mostly level terrain. Hiking poles are highly recommended, since any scrambling around the river rocks will make them useful. Also snacks, lunch, water, good solid shoes or boots, broad brimmed hat, and sunscreen.
Susie Bartz worked at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History to publish the maps of legendary geologist Tom Dibblee. She currently assists community organizations to help bring an awareness of earth sciences to children, teachers,