2025 Project Update
As of July 2025, the 30% bridge design has received conceptual approval from the UPRR and CPUC. The bridge is a requirement of the UPRR to allow passage over the railroad and must meet the UPRR's minimum clearance requirements over the tracks. Efforts are now underway to design the remainder of the trail, complete an updated biological resource evaluation, conduct public outreach, and submit a permit application to the County. Seed funding for the project design phase was provided by the estate developer. Formal project approval and permits are anticipated to be received in 2026. A grassroots funding campaign is underway, and applications for grants from foundations and government programs will begin shortly.
Project History
Location:
County of Santa Barbara | Gaviota Coast
Description:
The Paradiso del Mare trail project, a segment of the California Coastal Trail, will provide a one-mile section of the trail along the blufftop and important infrastructure for trail users. The multi-use trail will include scenic overlooks of the Pacific Ocean along the route of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail and will form part of the California Missions Trail. Parking for 20 vehicles and several horse trailers will be provided, along with a pedestrian bridge over the Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) tracks. The project is located along the eastern Gaviota Coast of Santa Barbara County, approximately 1/2 mile west of the City of Goleta boundary at the Bacara Resort and Spa.
Project Requirements:
The Santa Barbara County Trails Council is working on behalf of the County to design and obtain permits for the project. The project requires approval of a Coastal Development Permit from Santa Barbara County, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) approval and UPRR authorization for the trail bridge over the railroad. Easements to accommodate the trail, parking lot, and bridge were granted to the County in 2014 as part of the approval of two residential estates on the property. The balance of the property is subject to a conservation easement held by The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County.
How to Get Involved:
If you are interested in learning more about the project and would like to receive notifications of future meetings, please complete the interest form below.
Become a financial supporter by donating to the Santa Barbara County Trails Council's Paradiso del Mare Trail Fund. The estimated cost of the bridge is $4 million. While we hope to secure grant funding for part of the cost, community support is critical to making this key coastal trail segment and public facilities a reality.
Client:
County of Santa Barbara Community Services, Parks Division. Work is being coordinated with the Paradiso del Maré property owner
Funding:
A $500,000 endowment from the project developer supports the initial implementation of public access easements. Community donations and fundraising efforts will provide additional funding for trail infrastructure, a bridge, and a parking lot.
