Pratt/Cozy Dell/Foothill Trail 5.5 Mile Loop + Option for longer hike

This hike was originally posted by me in Venture Hiking 30s to 40s Meetup Group - You may RSVP in either group

Total Length: 5.5 miles
Estimated Time: 3.5 hours
Elevation Gain: 1486 ft
Option to extend hike -
We will be partnering with Boo from Santa Barbara Adventure People on this hike. We will start off together, but you will be given the option to complete the 5.5 mile loop as planned and return around 1pm, or extend the hike by continuing on with Boo for a bigger adventure. The extended option will entail exploring more of cozy dell trail, magic mountain loop, some off trail exploring and optional boulder climbing.
Extended Option Total Length: 10-12 miles
Estimated Time: Return before sun down
Elevation Gain: Up to 3000 ft

We’ll be using Pratt Trail, Cozy Dell Trail, and Foothill Trails to create a 5.5 mile loop. Pratt trail is rated hard, although the first portion is not, and we will take our time on the portion that is a little harder. We will then turn onto cozy dell trail which is rated as moderate. Once we reach foothill trail, you will have the option to return on foothill (also moderate) back to Pratt and our starting point, or continue on with Boo.

Parking: Please give yourself extra time to get to the trailhead. You can reach me through the app if you need help getting to the trailhead, but I suggest reading the entire description carefully. There are a few trailheads in the same area so let’s make sure you get to the right one. Navigate to the address. Your navigation will tell you to go left from signal street onto a dirt road. The trailhead starts at a parking lot at the end of that dirt road. A lot of people see parked cars on signal and assume they are at the trailhead, but you must turn left on the dirt road, either by driving or walking. Do not assume any other people parked or walking along the road are going to the same trailhead. There is a trailhead at the end of signal road. That is not where we are going.

You have two options for parking:

1. Drive down the dirt road to the parking lot. It is a bumpy road, but manageable if you steer around the bumpy parts. Sometimes people become concerned they are going the wrong way because of the signs stating it is a private road. Despite the fact that it is a private road and there are signs stating so, it is the correct way and you are permitted to drive on it to get to the trails that are part of the Los Padres National Forest. If you see a few cars parked on the right side almost immediately, then keep going. That is not the parking lot. There is still a 5 minute walk from that point to the trailhead. After 0.25 miles, you will reach a parking lot on the left side. It is larger than it seems when you initially approach it so if you don’t see a spot, drive forward into the parking lot.
2. Park on signal street then make that left and walk down the dirt road. Give yourself extra time, about 5-10 minutes to walk to the trailhead. I have not had any issues driving on the dirt road, but i know it makes some people nervous so walking is an option.

Bring: Sunscreen, at least 2 liters water, hat, bug repellent, shoes with good grip, snack for those completing the 5.5 mile option, packed lunch for those opting for the extended version

After: For those who are ready for lunch after completing the 5.5 mile loop with me, we will head to Agave Maria in downtown Ojai for lunch.