Santa Barbara’s Trail Council is hosting its 2nd annual barbeque and fundraiser this Sunday at El Capitan Canyon.

The event will begin at 10 a.m. and include trail hikes, runs and equestrian rides, a barbeque lunch and performance from the local band Nate and the Train Hoppers. The organization will use the funds to improve access and maintenance along the area’s local hiking trails.

According to Trial Council Executive Director Ray Ford, the group’s first priority is to reopen the 11-mile Bill Wallace trail.

“We want to improve the trail and have it officially open to the public like any other trail,” Ford said.

“The trail was dedicated in 2002 and almost immediately closed due to lack of funds to maintain it.”

Ford said the council began plans to reopen the area three years ago.

“If it is rebuilt, State Parks feels more comfortable opening it to the public,” Ford said. “People will be able to drive up and hike along the trail, like you would expect at any other trail.”

The Santa Barbara Trail Council is a non-profit organization established in the 1960’s to focus on trail access, maintenance, establishments, and dedications in Santa Barbara, Goleta, Gaviota and Santa Ynez areas. The organization’s funding comes from donations and grants including a recent $6,000 grant from UCSB’s Coastal Fund.

According to Ford, the group encourages attendees to become involved with the organization.

“Really, we want to bring people out to have fun while encouraging them to join the council,” Ford said.

Last year’s event attracted over 50 people and raised about $700. The council reduced this year’s event price from $35 to $20 in advance to increase the number of attendees. Tickets and additional information are available at sbtrails.org.