Name: Upper McMenemy
Rating: 2.5

“A technical traverse between Hot Springs Trail and McMenemy Bench.”

— Paul Shepherd

GPX File

E-Bikes Unknown

Features -none-

As of December 2017, this trail is closed as part of the Thomas Fire Closure. Violating this closure is a federal crime that can result in hefty fines or jail time.

Description

Upper McMenemy begins at an intersection with Hot Springs Trail, and has a challenging singletrack climb up to a saddle point. From there, it descends around tight switchbacks without much visibility. Eventually, the trail flattens out and traverses before a more gentle climb up to McMenemy Bench, and the intersection with Girard Trail and Lower McMenemy.

The difficulty of the first part of the trail, without a major payoff, mean this trail is much less popular than doing a loop on Hot Springs, Edison Catway, and the Girard/McMenemy DH. As with all trails in this area, use a bike bell, and look out for hikers, dogs, and horses. This trail is managed by the Montecito Trails Foundation.