What we’re about
Welcome to Santa Barbara County Hikers!
We all benefit from free access to the extensive network of trails throughout our coastal mountains, along the Gaviota coastline, in the Santa Ynez Valley, and across the spectacular Santa Barbara backcountry. The County’s trail system is a community resource at its best when it is maintained and regularly put to use.
Although we do not charge to join our Meetup group, each hike we take reminds us that the community resource we love is also a community responsibility. There are many ways to fulfill that obligation. One way is to join the Santa Barbara County Trails Council: http://sbtrails.org/join/. Another is to volunteer for trail projects: [http://sbvoluneers.org](https://www.meetup.com/Santa-Barbara-Trail-Volunteers/).
Your membership supports our recreational hiking program, trail maintenance program, and the planning and construction of new trails in Santa Barbara County for all users. In addition, you will receive a local hiking trail map pack as a new member.
Thanks for joining Santa Barbara County Hikers, and now join us for a hike for fun, fitness, and the incredible beauty surrounding us!
Happy trails,
Mark Wilkinson
Executive Director
Santa Barbara County Trails Council
http://sbtrails.org/links
PS. Special thanks to Curt Cragg for founding Santa Barbara County Hikers over a decade ago.
Upcoming events (2)
See all- Wednesday Evening Hike: Zen PoolsBig 5 Sporting Goods - Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA
This week: Zen Pools. The route climbs down the back side of Cold Springs Trail from Camino Ceilo heading North. After 1.7mi, we pass Forbush Flat campsite. Continuing North we climb up a little then back down another mile or so through the lush landscape to find the emerald green zen pools. Break for a snack there before heading back up the steady slope to Camino Cielo and the cars. Car pool highly recommended as trailhead is way up there.
NOTE: This hiking group is intermediate with folks in pretty good shape. Please note the distance and elevation covered in the details below. Newbies who are unsure are encouraged to try Friday Night Hikes led by Al from Sierra Club before committing to a Wednesday Evening Hike
Distance - 5.3 mi
Ascent - 1851 ft
Water crossings - YES
Rock scrambling - NO
Bush whacking - NO
Maximum Grade - >15%
Strava Effort - 1.8xTrailhead: Cold Springs Saddle on Camino Cielo
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZAt9tEZwUfGci7SE8Carpool: Big 5 in Five points departs 5:50p
https://maps.app.goo.gl/sNS6bCn9NBw8Yvyc7Strava link:
https://www.strava.com/routes/3356170655511067168Hike Leader this week will be Henk Aling. If you plan to attend please accept on Meetup. For questions, Henk can be reached via text at 805-698-0532.
About Wednesday Evening Hike series
We will meet at 6:30p at the trailhead unless otherwise noted for that week. We sometimes carpool to trails up to 45 minutes away. We attempt to vary the trails selecting amongst those that are open and in hike-worthy condition. We hike the front country, the backside of the front range and occasionally adventure even further. Hikes are typically in the 6-9 mile range with 1500-3000 ft of total ascent. Occasionally we'll mix in a harder hike where returns can be very late. These hikes are meant for those with some hiking experience and moderate athletic condition. The pace varies and larger groups usually split, but we will re-group at intersections and stick together where the path is 'iffy'. Please dress appropriately with hiking boots/shoes and comfortable clothes meant to get sweaty and possible wet. Headlamp and/or flashlight required. Bring a water resistant jacket for rain/gloom or just cold air which is frequent at altitude. We recommend 1-3L water bladder in a backpack depending upon trail difficulty so that your hands are free to cross water or scramble up/down rocks. Bug spray is a good idea as bugs are very active at dusk (better to have and not need.) Some folks bring hiking poles. We recommend long sleeves and pants to prevent scratches, poison oak and ticks.We typically stop at the top, add a layer for warmth and enjoy a snack. This can be some of the best fun as folks drag up hot tea, other libations, and all sorts of baked goods to share. Yum!
Group organizers assume no liability; hike at your own risk. By being a member of this group, you hereby agree to assume all risks and liability related to or resulting from any group functions. You agree that you nor any third party will hold any of the group's leaders liable for any injury, loss, or damage to your own self or property arising directly or as a consequence of a group activity. You also agree that your membership of this group is based on an "at will" basis.
