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, including key regional connections such as the Bill Wallace Trail to Los Padres National Forest Project.
New Plans = New Trails
We are excited to share that the three California State Parks on the Gaviota Coast are taking a significant step forward with a multi-year 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.
One project that deserves special attention in the General Plan Update is the Bill Wallace Trail at El Capitan State Beach. This trail represents the most promising opportunity to connect coastal communities with inland backcountry resources, providing safe, sustainable access from the Gaviota Coast to the Los Padres National Forest. Prioritizing the Bill Wallace Trail will open the door for hikers, runners, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts to enjoy expanded recreational opportunities while supporting regional conservation and sustainable land use goals.
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.
Take Action
We encourage you to join the Trails Council's and State Park's mailing lists to stay informed about the future of recreation on the Gaviota Coast and receive timely updates.
- Trails Council: Fill out our Updates Form to be notified about all Gaviota Coast trail information.
- California State Parks: Visit http://ecrgplanupdate.com/ to learn more and share your input.
Help shape the future of our parks!
Read our full report about The Indispensable Value of Gaviota State Parks
