McMenemy Trail

 

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87

lisa z.

Ventura, CA

7/23/2008

McMenemy Trail wasn't exactly our first hiking choice, but it was *impossible* to find the route to Tangerine Falls from the Cold Spring trail head, even after climbing over some rusty "private access only" gates affixed with handwritten signs declaring, "DANGEROUS TRAIL AHEAD! MUDDY! DO NOT ENTER!" We could hear the falls, but even as hikers who like to wander off groomed trails, there was nothing leading in that general direction. So please be advised, the route to Tangerine Falls is either very hard to find or has been seriously washed out.

The Cold Spring trail head leads to a series of scenic trails in the front country of Montecito. As to be expected for Montecito wilderness, they are exquisitely maintained, labeled, and social hikers will appreciate that you can usually hike side-by-side at most points. You'll hike through several micro-climates where the vegetation changes from dryer chaparral and succulents to cat tail in the creek beds. It was drizzling and fogtastic out when we hiked this, visibility very limited, but on a clear day expect gorgeous coastal views.

After three hours of hiking we felt a little bored though. For the more adventurous, the terrain won't feel like much of a physical challenge, you won't return home with any stories of bravery to share, or cuts and bruises marking a day well spent.  Not a bad place for trail running though, or some gentle hiking.

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