Santa Barbara Trail Musings

Night Lizard Brewing Company

North of the 192 in Santa Barbara sits Los Padres National Forest. There, a short distance from town, lies trails to bring you happiness. On foot, I wandered the land, talking with mountain bikers along the way. The network of trails is ridden both ways, they said, though some prefer to set up a shuttle to get to the top. I had no skin in the game, other than mapping out in my mind what could be a central coast mountain biking and body surfing trip/article.

Hikers, trail runners and mountain bikers enjoyed themselves, a few spots along the way providing peek-a-boo views from mountain-to-ocean. In a very technical rock-filled section, I watched a guy bounce his bike and hold on, basically, cleaning it and pedaling on as I cheered. Thank goodness that section of trail hasn’t been sanitized, giving me something to look forward to when I go back.

While walking/hiking, I thought: why do trail users not get along? I know all of the obvious reasons. That’s not good enough. Too shallow in the thinking. What else is there? Is it that we focus on the differences? The “othering” understanding?

Back in town, I made way for Night Lizard Brewing Company. Yes, there are numerous breweries in SB. Why Night Lizard? Family owned. Dad, brother and sister were working while I was there, living up to the reputation. Also, they hold environmental education programs/presentations/talks at the brewery/tasting room. Night Lizard cares about the future of the California’s central coast, using their space to educate people in town or passing through. They get involved, too.

The beer was solid (they’ve won some awards/honors) and the food comes from down the street. Get the goat birria tacos if you’re there on the weekend.

https://nightlizardbrewingcompany.com/

Cheers, everyone!