UCSB Las Varas Ranch

Join us in our campaign to complete six miles of the California Coastal Trail on the Gaviota Coast. We are collaborating with government agencies and NGOs to develop trail segments situated on California state-owned property.

We are excited to share that the three California State Parks on the Gaviota Coast are taking a significant step forward with a multiyear General Plan Update. This update will prepare Gaviota State Park, Refugio State Beach, and El Capitán State Beach for the future. We strongly encourage community members and organizations to actively contribute to this planning process. Your input is vital as State Park staff draft recommendations for protecting significant resources, modernizing park infrastructure, adapting to climate change impacts, and providing sustainable recreational opportunities for all visitors. The updated General Plan will serve as a testament to our collective efforts, ensuring that these parks remain a treasure for generations to come.

With 15 miles of state-owned coastline, Gaviota offers a rare opportunity to complete key gaps in the California Coastal Trail, the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail, and the California Missions Trail. These trails sit on historic Chumash trading routes and continue to evolve today, accommodating the growing demand for outdoor experiences. Beyond the coastal trails, El Capitan and Gaviota State Park's vast inland areas offer incredible potential for new recreation opportunities. Trails are infrastructure for wildlife viewing, fitness activities, wellness pursuits, and other ways to spend time in nature.

By integrating the conservation of natural resources and the development of new trails into broader sustainability strategies for the General Plan Update, we can ensure a future where these invaluable assets continue to enrich our lives and inspire future generations.

We encourage you to visit the project website and join the mailing list to actively participate in the future of recreation on the Gaviota Coast.

Help shape the future of our parks!

Visit http://ecrgplanupdate.com/ to learn more and share your input.

View from Yucca Trail