A New 165 mile Trail

[Steve Shaw <sshaw@pacbell.net>]

In San Luis Obispo we have discovered and developed a new 165 mile trail
through some fantastic territory.  This trail, the Cuesta/Sespe Trail,
is entirely within the southern portion of the Los Padres National
Forest and stretches from San Luis Obispo to Ventura, California. There
are about 12 portals of access to the trail and many neat campsites. It
stretches in almost a straight line, except that it sure goes up and
down a lot! You can't believe the sights along the way, riding with the
condors in three different sections, views of the ocean and the Carrizo
Plain, stretches and stretches of wilderness, countless waterfalls in
the winter, three areas of ancient indian encampments and two of the
greatest hot springs I have ever been to.

SLOPOST, the San Luis Obispo Parks Open Space and Trails Foundation
hopes to have a multi-day ride in one section of it in the future with a
one day 70 miler included. We are trying to get official designation or
recognition of the trail to protect it in the future. It is open now for
riding but there are some potential right-of-way situations that could
crop up soon.  We are initiating a fund raising campaign under SLOPOST's
501(c)3 status to protect the trail, provide trail maintenance, acquire
deeded right of ways and improve access. These funds will also create a
web site that will allow you all to find the trail and be informed of
changing conditions.

It is a great new place to play and I recommend excursions to the area
for training and fun! Hopefully these trails will develop into
sanctioned rides in the near future. It will, with your support and
help.

For more information, letters of support, or to send donations to create
the new designated trail, please e-mail me, sshaw@pacbell.net. Maps are
available, a set of two (it takes two, it is a long trail) for $15 which
includes postage. The trail and campsites, access and staging areas are
highlighted.

Steve Shaw, President SLOPOST