Environmental Clean Up Project by Edison Closes a Popular Trail in Santa Barbara County
John Palminteri
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) – Hikers wanting to get to Inspiration Point above Santa Barbara will have to take a detour for the next four months while an environmental clean up takes place.
The Stream Restoration Project by Southern California Edison is connected to the work that was done last year, and has now begun its second phase.
Edison caused damage in a creek area in 2019.
Work was first done in July 2024 and was complete on November 9, 2024.
For hikers the alternative route to Inspiration Point is going to be via the Jesusita trail in San Roque or Rattlesnake Canyon.
Work planned during Phase 2 includes:
Removal of rocks and debris from stream bed and banks.
Reconstruction and revegetation of stream habitats.
Monitoring of restoration efforts.
Hiker Hannah Huang said, “I’m kind of sad that they’re closing this trail for the rest of the summer, but I’m also glad that they’re finally, you know, cleaning up their mistake and taking the steps to fix it.”
For regulars walking the area on Thursday many said this closure caught them by surprise.
Brenton Hampton said, ” I literally during the spring I think I did this once a week.
I’m like this all the time. Like literally came up here once a week “
Someone new to the area, Sophia Pinto, will see it now and come back in January. “This is my first time doing this hike and my roommates are taking me today. So I was really excited.”
Already thinking of alternative routes, Jace Philip said, “We can go around, but, Yeah. It’s just so unfortunate. I mean, maybe I’ll start going up to Ojai more or towards Gaviota.”
A few minutes later on the trail, Annie Li said, “I’m definitely going to try and get out more and explore more of the trails.”
There were many local college students, some new to the area, on the trail. Grace Hajduk said, “It’s just so sad. This is our favorite hike.”
The project went through an extensive review by the Santa Barbara County Parks Department and County Planners.
To see a detailed map go to : sce.com/MissionCanyon or call the Mission Canyon SCE Information Line at 805-654-7223.
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