Wednesday Evening Hike: Montecito Peak

This week: Montecito Peak. Meet at Big 5 at 6:00p for the shuttle to Trailhead. We'll climb up Cold Springs Ridge Trail (optional Boy Scout bypass and the narrow trail to the little peak there). From there we'll ascend Cold Springs trail until we reach the steep, kitty litter trail up to Montecito Peak. Return the main Cold Springs trail to trailhead, stepping through water passages in the dark. Alternately we may decide up the creek, down the ridge. Game day decision.
Distance - 6.59 mi
Ascent - 2511ft
Water crossings - YES (Step over)
Rock scrambling - NO
Bush whacking - YES (push aside, not climb through)
Maximum Grade - >25%
Overall Effort - Hard
Strava Effort - 2.2x

Carpool Spot: Big 5 North lot at 6:00
https://maps.app.goo.gl/pkfrwbwnWmEP5zC88

Trailhead: Cold Springs Trailhead 6:30 (but please do carpool!)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/y6VQzM5kerD7VFdz9

Strava link
https://www.strava.com/routes/3276034628776663106

Hike Leader this week will be Kevin Hanrahan. If you plan to attend please accept on Meetup. For questions, Kevin can be reached via text at 805-895-5655.

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. I 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.