Access to the Hot Springs trail and parking area in Montecito could be limited in some critical weather

MONTECITO, Calif. — Hikers may face restrictions on parking and access to the Hot Springs Trail in Montecito during specific fire and rain conditions.

The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors will consider the proposed changes Tuesday.

The restrictions would be implemented during Red Flag fire conditions and stormy weather.

The proposal is primarily focused on trail safety and evacuation concerns.

Residents in the area have expressed concerns about trail users parking in the neighborhood, as parking is extremely limited.

For the plan to be effective, the county would need to collaborate with multiple agencies, including area fire departments, the U.S. Forest Service, the Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Sheriff's Office.

A county staff report states, "Hot Springs Trail in Montecito has seen a dramatic increase in visitors, creating significant public safety and wildfire risks, especially on days where forecasted weather could bring the threat of a Red Flag Warning."

Funding to enforce the pilot project would come from the Sheriff's Office and total $25,000 if approved.

The county warns that without these new restrictions, "risks could threaten the community, emergency responders, and natural resources."

A similar restriction was implemented in 2012 for users of the Tunnel Trail in Mission Canyon.

The Hot Springs Trail is in an area impacted by multiple disasters, including the 2008 Tea Fire, the 2017 Thomas Fire, and the deadly 2018 debris flow.

The Montecito Fire Protection District has studied risks in the area and emphasizes the importance of reducing ignition sources and maintaining clear evacuation routes.