Piru, CA (May 12, 2026) — United Water Conservation District (United Water) is proud to announce the completion of the improved Pothole Trail realignment project in partnership with the Los Padres Forest Association (LPFA) and Los Padres National Forest (LPNF). A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will be held on Sunday, May 17th, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. to celebrate this community milestone.
The public is invited to attend. Guests should park at the Juan Fernandez Boat Ramp Parking Lot, where shuttles will be provided to the trailhead. Volunteer work event will follow from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and refreshments will be provided.
The journey to an improved Pothole Trail began in 2019, when United Water laid the groundwork by completing a new trailhead parking lot facility at 4780 Piru Canyon Rd. and inspiring what would become a broader trail revitalization effort.
In February 2021, the U.S. Forest Service notified United Water that LPFA was applying for a National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) grant to fund a realignment of the Pothole Trail. The project would revitalize 1.8 miles of the existing trail, creating a more suitable route and slope, with the new trail originating at United Water’s Pothole Trailhead parking lot.
Beginning in early 2022, United Water worked closely with LPFA Project Manager Bryan Conant on trail alignment and environmental compliance documentation.
“United Water is proud to have helped lay the foundation for this project. Seeing our investment in the trailhead facility inspire a full trail revitalization is exactly the kind of community and environmental partnership we strive for,” said Mauricio Guardado, General Manager, United Water.
Trail construction began in December 2025 and was completed in May 2026, with all trail work carried out by a combination of dedicated LPFA volunteers and LPFA’s professional Trail Crew. The realigned trail offers a more accessible experience for visitors to the area.
“The new Pothole Trail alignment is a huge improvement which will benefit both visitors of Lake Piru as well as the Los Padres Forest. The new trail was designed in accordance with modern trail sustainability guidelines that will help reduce erosion while increasing the trail user experience. Contrary to the previous alignment, the new trail follows a gradual grade while providing different and amazing views of Lake Piru and the Piru Creek watershed. The trail will be a favorite for day hikers as well as backpackers visiting the Sespe Wilderness.” said Bryan Conant, Los Padres Forest Association.