Ray Ford: Front-Country Trailhead Parking Issues Are Symbol of Larger Concerns
Surging popularity with hikers and other uses presents numerous challenges, including safety in the event of a wildfire
On-street parking on trails like Jesusita create a major safety concern for emergency personnel. (Ray Ford / Noozhawk photo)
Fencing and boulders make it impossible to create off-street parking for trail users. Without off-street parking, access to this trail is almost impossible. (Ray Ford / Noozhawk photo)
While vehicles now have additional places to park along Riven Rock, some of them are precariously close to the creek bank. (Ray Ford / Noozhawk photo)
In an attempt to reduce crowding, Public Works posted two-hour parking for a trail that takes almost all users longer than that to get out and back. (Ray Ford / Noozhawk photo)
Montecito Trails Foundation Adds Three Trailhead Kiosks and Directional, E-Bike Signage
Glass kiosks with color-coded trail maps providing general routes and distances are located at Romero Canyon, San Ysidro and Hot Springs
The Romero Canyon and Hot Springs kiosks in Montecito are built as Eagle Scout projects for local Troop 33. (Montecito Trails Foundation courtesy photo) By Brooke Holland, Noozhawk Staff Writer | @BT Holland
February 16, 2021
| 9:38 p.m.
Outdoor enthusiasts who have set out to traverse front country trails in Montecito recently might have noticed new sights during their journey.
During the past few months, the nonprofit Montecito Trails Foundation added three trailhead kiosks, additional directional signage and electric bike signage. Three glass kiosks with color-coded trail maps to provide general routes and distances are located at the trailheads of Romero Canyon, San Ysidro and Hot Springs.
Preserves and open space provide plentiful opportunities, destinations to help you get away from the COVID-19 grind
A sign at the Ennisbrook Trail in Montecito urges hikers to social distance and take other public health steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19. (Brooke Holland / Noozhawk photo) By Brooke Holland, Noozhawk Staff Writer | @BT Holland
December 13, 2020
| 10:45 p.m.
More and more people are venturing outdoors in Santa Barbara County since the evolving COVID-19 pandemic emerged earlier this year.
The county’s natural landscapes and open spaces have become refuges from coronavirus restrictions and lockdowns, and the areas are serving as places to avoid crowds and get a bit of exercise.