2022 Map of Topatopa Mountains

About this map

Los Padres National Forest contains the high-elevation wilderness of the Topatopa Mountains, a landscape defined by deep drainages and prominent summits like Hines Peak and San Rafael Peak. The area is centered on the protected Sespe Creek Wild and Scenic River, where the Sespe River winds through narrow canyons. Evidence of the region’s geothermal activity and remote backcountry access is visible at Willett Hot Springs, accessible via the Sespe River Trl. The map illustrates a primitive transportation network of ridgeline and canyon floor routes, including the Johnston Ridge Trl and Red Reef Trl. Significant flatlands such as Mutau Flat and Ten Sycamore Flat offer rare level ground amidst the steep terrain, while numerous seasonal watercourses like Timber Cr and Santa Paula Cr feed into the primary river systems.