Montecito, Carpinteria, and Summerland boast many fine trails between them — the Cold Spring, Franklin, and Romero Canyon trails, to name a popular few. While you’ve likely explored them, you may not realize that the clear tread and easy accessibility are thanks to the volunteer work of the Montecito Trails Foundation (MTF).
On Saturday, September 19, front-country footpath fans can show their gratitude for the 51-year-old organization by attending its annual fall BBQ at the Montecito Valley Ranch. The event kicks off at 7 a.m. with a trail run, followed by bike and horse rides in the morning, and a barbecue, dancing, music, and silent auction in the afternoon.
Formed in 1964 in the wake of the Montecito Riding and Hiking Trails Association (which started in 1959), the MTF preserves history, improves and widens existing routes, and opens new ones. The donor-funded organization focuses much of its work on trails threatened by property disputes, encroaching foliage, or historical misuse and trashing.