The Central and South Coasts are home to some of the most scenic hiking, and backpacking trails in the world. The trails range from easy little hikes which literally start in neighborhoods, to rugged mountain trips deep into wilderness areas of the Los Padres National Forest.
Now, a lifelong hiker who grew up in Ventura County has written a guidebook showcasing trails in the southern part of the forest.
The result is Craig Carey’s “Hiking & Backpacking Santa Barbara and Ventura,” Second Edition. It provides what you need to know about 98 trails in Ventura County, and Southern Santa Barbara County, ranging from degrees of difficult to where to park
Carey is a teacher, and a graphic artist, but he and his family are constantly hitting the region’s trails. He says they’ve been far from alone during the pandemic, with hiking booming as people look for safe activities.
Carey says anyone planning a hike needs to follow the longtime scout motto of “Be Prepared.” It means bringing things like food, water, and a flashlight in case you become lost. And, he says the most important thing is to let someone know where you are going, and when you will return, so if you run into trouble people can look for you.
He says it also means being aware of trail hazards like rattlesnakes, ticks, and plants which can cause skin rashes.
“Hiking And Backpacking Santa Barbara and Ventura” Second Edition is available at local bookstores, like Chaucer’s in Santa Barbara, as well as through the website of the publisher, Wilderness Press.
