"Seeing people out enjoying the trails is the best gift we can receive in return for our work."

"I love all the front country trails, but my favorites are the smaller, less traveled single tracks near my home. I consider myself fortunate that MTF helps provide a resource of trails so close to our city where we can readily exercise and rediscover nature and open space.

"I feel fortunate to live in such a magical place where the mountains meet the sea. I have a deep passion for our trails which I hike or ride everyday."

"I love the drive and short hike from Camino Cielo to Montecito Peak. But, my favorite is the spectacular 7-trail triangle loop connecting San Ysidro, Cold Spring, Connector, Hot Springs, McMenemy, Old Pueblo and Wiman. An early start, food, sunscreen, plenty of water and 11+ miles of absolute front country bliss. It's an all time epic hike."

"There are not many places you can catch the sunrise while on the ocean and the sunset from one our incredible front country trails. Grateful."

"Growing up in Santa Barbara, my love for the outdoors started in the Los Padres mountains, and I am thrilled to do my part in conserving our invaluable ecosystem of trails in Montecito. Romero Canyon trail will always be my favorite with its spectacular views of the islands and backcountry."

“After spending most of my life in New York City, I never forget how lucky we are to have such extensive and varied trails so close at hand. Nothing clears my head like a morning hike.”

"One of my favorite trails has to be Franklin, as it is very close to my house. I can get in a quick hike with a nice climb up the single track to get my heart pumping and enjoy beautiful views of the vallet and islands along the way. For more of an adventure one can climb the 8 miles to the crest and then over the top to Alder Camp and Jameson Lake."

"Protect what you love."

"In the early 80's I kept a young horse on Lilac Drive. The pasture bordered the Fearing connector trail to so I could easily reach the Old Pueblo Trail, the San Ysidro and Romero Trails, and the pathways along East Valley and Ortega Ridge. I marveled at how nicely kept these trails were. A neighbor and founding member of MTF explained that membership dues covered the cost of maintenance...and why wasn't I a member? I signed up and have served on the board for almost 40 years!"

Growing up in beautiful Santa Barbara, I’ve had the pleasure of hiking, running, biking, and rock climbing on our local trails for many years. As a public educator, I strongly believe in multi-use trails, the power of partnerships, and our collective responsibility to care for our trails. In the words of John Muir: “Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul.”