And we begin with a bang
We begin with a bang today as we leave Santa Barbara and head up Painted Cave and then head out to Figaro Mountain on the way to Santa Maria for the night. It's about 10,000 feet of climbing in a little over 100 miles. Today's route is the most climbing we'll do in a single day on TdCA, but not the longest as far as miles go, we reserve that distinction to day three.
We started with an amazing outdoor beachside breakfast that Sam and TJ prepared, quickly changed and took some pics around the pier, and headed up state street like there was a parade. Perhaps a bit premature, as the day was far harder than anyone would have expected, even those who have done both signature climbs before.
Painted Cave is a brute force climb that leaves the heart of Santa Barbara and pitches up into the high teens 13-19% in spots. It's relentless, but beautiful and we saw it when it was simply stunning. But the queen climb of the day goes to Figueroa Mtn. It's a long slog up (not) so happy canyon road, then to lower pitches of relentless beast. Our goal however was the bbq for lunch that Sam and TJ have prepared overlooking the coast, but from miles and miles away. Truly spectacular.
