Paraglider Rescued off More Mesa Cliff in Santa Barbara

There’s never a dull moment along our coastline, and Saturday afternoon was no exception. According to Noozhawk, emergency crews were called to the More Mesa Open Space around 3 p.m. to rescue a paraglider who got stuck on the cliffside. If you’ve ever hiked those bluffs, you know how stunning—and steep—that stretch of land can be, especially with the wind whipping off the ocean. It’s a popular spot for paragliders looking to catch a thermal, but this time, things didn’t go as planned.

Thankfully, first responders from the Santa Barbara County Fire Department and Sheriff’s Office worked quickly to bring the person to safety. No word yet on any injuries, but the outcome could have been much worse. It’s a good reminder that even the most experienced outdoor enthusiasts can find themselves in a tight spot. More Mesa is one of our last remaining open spaces, and while it’s a treasure for recreation, Mother Nature always has the final say. Here’s hoping everyone stays safe out there—and maybe keeps a little extra margin next time the wind picks up.