2025 Project Update
Designating a secondary California Coastal Trail will be necessary as long as Vandenberg SFB restricts access to 40 miles of the California coast.
Project Story Map: https://arcg.is/0v5PTS
Project Map: http://bit.ly/ct-route
Project History
Location:
Santa Barbara County
Description:
Completed in November 2020, the purpose of the Northern Santa Barbara County Interim Coastal Trail Study (aka Secondary Coastal Trail Study) is to identify a preferred interim route for the California Coastal Trail (Coastal Trail) through northern Santa Barbara County (North County). The Trail Study also identifies connections to the coast and other existing recreational resources between Gaviota State Park and the terminus of the Coastal Trail at the northern County border at the Santa Maria River near the City of Guadalupe. It identifies opportunities and constraints for the completion and future enhancement of the Coastal Trail and its connections to the coast. The study analyzes current conditions and incorporates input from the general public and key stakeholders, such as land management agencies, to fully disclose existing and future trail opportunities and recommend multi-use trail routes and improvements to create a healthier and more vibrant County.
Much of the Santa Barbara Coastline in the North County region is not accessible, primarily due to Vandenberg Air Force Base’s location. This study looked at options for an interim or secondary coastal trail until the coastline between the City of Guadalupe and Gaviota State Park is accessible to the public. The proposed alignment is located primarily within road corridor rights of way and on public land where available, but alignments are avoided across private land. This document is strictly informational and advisory. This study aims to inform future decisions by elected officials regarding trail alignment, assuming the development of a designated route or trail moves forward.
Project Report: https://www.sbcag.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SBC-Interim-CCT-Alignment-Study-Final-11-12-20.pdf
Client:
Santa Barbara County Association of Governments
Trail Study for a Secondary California Coastal Trail from Guadalupe to Gaviota State Park on public property.
Contact:
Michael Becker, Director of Planning
Brian Bresolin, Senior Planner