Countywide : 475-Acre Wilderness Park to Open Near Coto de Caza

County officials hope to open a new regional park in the Coto de Caza area within a month.

The 475-acre wilderness park includes hiking and equestrian trials that meander through the area’s canyons and valleys.

The park was designed to have a natural look and will include few recreation facilities, buildings, picnic tables and paved roads.

The site originally was named Wagon Wheel Canyon Wilderness Park. But last month, the Board of Supervisors voted to name the park after retiring Supervisor Thomas F. Riley, who represents South County and worked to establish the park.

Supervisors recently approved funding for two rangers who will be stationed at the park.

The Coto de Caza Development Corp. has “adopted” the park and will pay for an entry sign, fencing and a parking area.

The park will open after an access route is completed. The park entrance is on Coto de Caza Road.