Across Highway 33 to the east, and also in the Los Padres National Forest, is the large Sespe Wilderness.

Smith spent more time in these remote regions of Santa Barbara County than anyone, covering the area on horseback and accompanied by his dog.

Since much of the wilderness is separated from the ocean by a mountain divide, and is at fairly high altitude, freezes are common in the winter, as is occasional snow.

Vegetation in the wilderness is predominantly chaparral, although there are regions of conifers, including big cone Douglas fir, especially on north-facing slopes, such as the northern exposure of Madulce Peak.

Wildlife that may be encountered in the wilderness includes coyotes, black bears, and mountain lions.