LPFA x Piedra Blanca Trail

Does a trail get much more inviting than this? Piedra Blanca magic. photo, Jeri H.

A major goal for LPFA in 2026 will be continuing work on the Gene Marshall-Piedra Blanca Trail. This trail is not only part of the Condor Trail, but is one of only two National Recreation Trails (NRT) in the Los Padres Forest and sits high on the short list of the most iconic LP trails. NRTs are designated at the federal level and must demonstrate that they represent their region, support a diverse community, and are one of the best trails in the country. 

You’d be hard pressed to find a trail more representative of the Los Padres than the Piedra Blanca Trail. In just over 16 miles, it passes through a Wild & Scenic River, otherworldly rock formations, rich chaparral diversity, towering mixed conifer forest, and unobstructed panoramic views. But, this trail needs some serious work. The middle section is thick with brush, bramble, and downed trees, as well as several slides and washouts with consequential falls. We’ve been chipping away at the brush over the past few years, and now it’s time to finish the job. With your support this GivingTuesday, LPFA will get this nationally-recognized gem of an LP trail back into hiking shape!

The time to order your 2026 Los Padres Calendar is NOW! Each year, LPFA puts together a calendar featuring all the sights, seasons, and stunning diversity of the Los Padres Forest. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the Los Padres every single day. And even better, all proceeds from calendar sales go directly toward trail maintenance in the Los Padres Forest. So next time you’re hiking a well-groomed trail, thank yourself for picking that Los Padres calendar for only $20…..

In case you missed it, a recording of LPFA’s Condor Trail Talk is now on the LPFA YouTube page! What a great night this was. Thank you to all our donors and supporters who made it happen. So good to see so many folks come out in support of the Condor Trail. This talk features an hour long, photo-filled slideshow of Addison Jerlow’s FKT thru-hike of the trail in March 2025, followed by a Q&A with Addison and the author of the Condor Trail Guidebook, Brian Sarvis.

LPFA’s fall Working Vacation is right around the corner! Join us December 5 – 14th for a car camping Working Vacation on the Pothole Trail near Lake Piru. This project has been in the works for some time now, and we are absolutely thrilled to be breaking ground on a reroute of the lower Pothole Trail! Come out and help make it happen. Haven’t volunteered before? No problem! We’ll train you on the job. There’s nothing better than workin’ trail all day, then sitting back while LPFA provides some cold drinks and dinner for you and all the new friends you made on the way.