A highly sought-after Central Coast hiking spot is now facing new restrictions. The Hot Springs Trailhead in the heart of Montecito, the one-percenter enclave growing in popularity just south of Santa Barbara, will see major changes to available parking near its heavily trafficked trailhead, along with serious consequences for those who don’t follow the new rules.
This summer, after years of dealing with scofflaw visitors and angry locals, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors approved new parking guidelines.
The parking issue near the beloved trailhead first boiled over in 2022, when locals took it upon themselves to put boulders, signs and landscaping along East Mountain Drive, one of the main drags that lead up to Hot Springs Trailhead. It’s the spot where many visitors park to access the neighborhood’s famous trails.
As if placing obstacles weren’t enough, homeowners even banded together and sued the county over its plans in the neighborhood (the court eventually ruled in the county’s favor)…