Will Trails and Beaches be Closed?
Posted by Marque on Apr 5, 2020 in Blog, Featured | 2 commentsShould we be concerned about the prospect of trail and beach closures during this challenging time? A check of local park and forest agency websites provides a clear and up-to-date picture.
Generally speaking, so long as you are not in a group of more than two people and you are maintaining a safe social distance of six feet from others, it is ok to go outside for exercise, a walk or fresh air. Avoiding popular trails is a common-sense approach. Use your good judgment.
Santa Barbara County Second District Supervisor Gregg Hart recently said, “We are asking everyone to be smart about our current situation. For example, if you want to go hiking and see a lot of cars at the trailhead, try shifting to walking in your own neighborhood. There are many wonderful things to discover in your own neighborhood and you have a much better chance to keep social distance with the space available on a sidewalk than a single-track trail in the foothills.”
RESOURCES | Consult local and state websites for the most up to date recommendations on park and trail use. Check before you go.
CITY OF SANTA BARBARA
City Parks remain open to walking activities as of today
https://www.santabarbaraca.gov/gov/depts/parksrec/news/
COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA
County Parks remain open as of today
https://www.countyofsb.org/parks/covid19.sbc
https://www.countyofsb.org/parks/
CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS
State Parks is closing access to parking lots to reduce the number of people accessing trails and beaches. Walk-in visitors are allowed.
https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=606 (Gaviota SP)
https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=603 (Refugio SB)
https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=599 (Carpinteria SB)
https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=598 (La Purisima HSP)
LOS PADRES NATIONAL FOREST
Developed recreation sites are closed. The general Forest area including the trail system will remain open and available to the public.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/lpnf/home/?cid=fseprd717031
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Do your plans for going outdoors include the following?
- Keeping at least six feet from others. While on trails, warn other users of your presence as you pass, and step aside to let others pass.
- Avoiding contact with frequently touched surfaces. Follow the CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to and during the use of parks or trails.
- Bringing hand sanitizer. Prepare for limited access to public restrooms or water fountains.
- Protecting others by wearing a facemask or a bandana over your nose and mouth.
If you cannot maintain social distancing of 6 feet or more, do you plan to leave the trail, park or open space?
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Let's hope that our community of trail users will comply with social distancing guidelines so that not all parks and open spaces in Santa Barbara County are closed during these difficult times.
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I wish to hike the Baron Ranch. Just two of us. Experienced hikers.
Is it open this weekend and next?
Yes, every Saturday, Sunday and Monday