Dan McCaslin: Testing the Waters at ‘First Crossing’ to Upper Oso Campground

Dan McCaslin: Testing the Waters at ‘First Crossing’ to Upper Oso Campground

Wild Peter and I wanted an easy backcountry hike without driving the full 47 miles to my favorite Nira Camp trailhead on Manzana Creek. The Santa Ynez River ford at “First Crossing” had just opened to vehicles, so off we went on April 16 (4.1.1. directions). After driving up the Chumash Highway (154), turning off onto Paradise Valley Road and passing Sage Hill, we saw two trucks pondering the rushing Santa Ynez River, but not moving forward. Exc…