Santa Barbara County to Study Overcrowding, Fire Risks on Hot Springs Trail

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, Calif. – After numerous complaints about the overuse of the Hot Springs Trail in Montecito, particularly at night, Santa Barbara County will study the risks before making enforcement decisions.

The county will collaborate with the U.S. Forest Service, which has jurisdiction over some of the land as the trail ascends into the hills.

Neighbors and fire officials have raised concerns that too many people are using the trail after dark, increasing the risk of evacuations in an emergency. The same concerns apply on days with high fire danger, such as those designated as "red flag" conditions. The county is considering closing the trail and parking area on those days.

The trail has grown in popularity since the COVID-19 pandemic, aided by online maps and photos of hot spring pools.

Longtime residents say the pools are not natural but were created by users in the creek area.

Recently, photos have surfaced showing a tour bus stopping in the area.

One neighbor said the fire danger is high, and some visitors have been bringing tiki torches into the hills to illuminate their gathering spots.

Montecito Fire Protection District Chief David Neels said gusty winds in the area are often stronger than in nearby neighborhoods. This week, winds exceeded 50 mph on one evening.

County officials say any new rules will require increased enforcement. They plan to study the issue for six months before presenting a report and a plan.