More Mesa - Trail Running

Review

Intro

Tucked into the coastal neighborhoods and farmland of Goleta, More Mesa is a 265-acre preserve open to the public for hiking, biking, running, and horseback riding. With wide grasslands and a few Eucalyptus groves, visitors join many wildlife in enjoying the natural scenery, winding single-track, and stunning cliffside routes. 

What Makes It Great

More Mesa features a network of improvised trails that carry with them a sense of freedom. The wide open, grassy fields are great for an off-leash romp for your dogs, but please be careful when approaching the cliffs. Some parts of the trail are no more than two feet from steep drop offs down to the rocks and sand of the beach below. It's a beautiful and thrilling experience, but if your dog tends to wander, leash them up when close to these sections. 

In the far eucalyptus grove is a long staircase down to the somewhat secluded beach. It should be noted that the beach at the of the stairs and to the right is a legally nude beach... you heard it here, so no surprises! 

Who is Going to Love It

This is a dog-friendly area. It's a mellow place to wander in the tall grass, soak in the views and enjoy the tranquility of the Pacific coast. The trail running is done mostly on firm, sandy trails -- good for runners with cranky knees. 

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

Parking is permitted on the streets along Puente Dr. or Shoreline Dr. The Mesa is also adjacent to the Goleta Obern Trail cycling route.