3.0 Coastal Trail and Access Framework
Coastal Access Point Design: This Trail Framework proposes five new coastal access points not identified in the County s 1982 Local Coastal Plan (LCP), as discussed more fully below. Five new parking areas would be [The Gaviota Coast] is the provided and two access points at Eagle Canyon and Tomate main attraction of living in Santa Barbara! Canyon West would be accessed off of the Coastal Trail only. This Trail Framework also proposes retention of the seven - Gaviota Coast visitor for 24 years access points proposed in the 1982 LCP, with acquisition and development of key access points at Dos Pueblos and Las Varas Ranches as well as improvements to Arroyo Hondo; however, many of these proposed 1982 LCP roadside access points may not be suitable for formal access due to constraints associated with US 101 and the Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR). This Framework recommends protection of existing public access trails and roadside coastal access parking along US 101 and County roads.
New coastal access trails in remote or natural areas (e.g., Naples) would consist of natural surface trails of 4+ feet in width. Trails at heavily used locations such as Arroyo Hondo or Gaviota Marine Terminal may require improved surface trails of 10+ feet in width. All beach access would be developed in a manner consistent with the area s rural character, using canyons or gullies wherever possible to limit the need for major engineered stairways. Required stairways would be constructed of natural materials, be of limited height and located in gullies to minimize construction impacts and costs. As discussed below, several of these trails would need to cross the UPRR from existing or proposed parking areas. Initial Coastal Access Point Design Principles
Construct natural earthen 4 foot wide access trails in more remote or undeveloped areas Use improved natural surfaces trails at popular access points (e.g., Gaviota Marine Terminal) Provide scattered smaller parking areas of 20-30 spaces to serve remote areas
The Gaviota Coastal Trail and Access Framework seeks to preserve existing informal access trails and roadside parking such as this heavily used trail to San Onofre Beach. Many such access points may be infeasible to develop into formal access points due to UPRR and US 101 issues.
Gaviota Coastal Trail and Access Study
Site access trails in canyons or using other features to minimize stairway construction Construct stairways of natural materials and limited heights to protect rural area Site access points to respect natural features and resources; use interpretative sign to educate public
The proposed new Tomate Canyon West coastal access trail would descend a shallow gully to a new 20-25 foot-tall wood and steel stairway to the beach (simulated photo). The access trail would replace existing informal access on Paradiso del Mare, proposed for closure as part of pending development.
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