High up in the foothills above Santa Barbara breathless hikers pause on a rock jutting out from the mountainside. The rough trail they have just conquered can be seen winding its way through the canyon pass hundreds of feet below. Yet, what draws the attention of the hikers is not behind them, but in front of them: a spectacular panoramic view of the city, the ocean, and the Channel Islands beyond. Although their final destination is still miles away, the hikers consider this stunning vista one of the best rewards of hiking in Santa Barbara.
This particular look-out happens to lie upon the Jesusita Trail which leads to Seven Falls and Inspiration Point in the Santa Barbara foothills, yet the scene could easily describe one of the dozens of hiking trails Santa Barbara has to offer. Even the most seasoned hiker will always find a new trail to explore, a new mountain to climb. Hikes range from easy strolls such as the San Antonio Creek Trail to strenuous climbs like the assent up Tunnel Trail. More often than not hikers only go half the distance of the actual trail, but find the experience rewarding all the same. You can make your turn-around point the 200-foot Tangerine Falls along the Cold Springs Canyon Trail or one of the many secluded pools along the San Ysidro Trail in the Montecito foothills and you won’t be disappointed.
For those more experienced hikers, many trails connect with others in loops that lead through the foothills to the backcountry. These trails are often less traveled and due to the lack to foot traffic, can be more rugged than trails on the south side of the mountain range. However, those with a true adventurous side seek out these backcountry trails. The Aliso Canyon Loop Trail winds along Aliso Creek crossing back and forth across the water and overlooks the Santa Ynez River Valley, while the nearby Lower Oso Trail offers a shorter 2 mile round trip hike that meanders through meadows beside Oso Creek. The challenging Tequepis Trail presents hikers with great views of Cachuma Lake. That, plus a sense of accomplishment, as the trail is uphill the whole way there.
No matter the distance or strenuousness of the hike, be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water. Stores like Santa Barbara Outfitters and Mountain Air Sports supply hiking supplies from light-weight aluminum water bottles to Camelpak backpacks so you can hydrate on the go. Mind the local flora and fauna by staying on the trails and be sure to pack out your trash.
Although the journey up these mountain trails can be rewarding in itself, the destination is what most hikers seek. At the end of Seven Falls Trail in Mission Canyon, hikers are rewarded with over a dozen waterfalls, while the end of Rattlesnake Canyon Trail (named for its narrow, snake-like shape) gives climbers a captivating view from the top of the mountains. A short half mile hike starting at East Camino Cielo Road leads hikers to Knapp’s Castle, a stone ruin dating back to 1916
If you are still feeling unsure about finding your way along these mountain trails on your own, join one of the Sierra Club’s weekend hikes. The Los Padres chapter holds guided hikes every weekend and social 2-4 mile hikes every Friday night. From coastal trails to hikes in the Santa Barbara and Montecito foothills, these expeditions are a great way to meet fellow hikers, learn more about the area, and explore some of Santa Barbara’s hidden gems. Hikes are free to the public, and you don’t have to be a Sierra Club member to participate.
Many of the most popular hikes in the area are in the foothills, but if mountainous terrain seems too daunting, you can enjoy the coastal scenery on one of the trails along the waterfront. Trails like the ones through the ecological sanctuary of Coal Oil Point in Goleta or atop the Mesa at the Douglas Family Preserve remind visitors why Santa Barbara is one of the top destination cities in the country. Foggy mornings give way to clear afternoons where hikers can look out upon the Channel Islands and the ocean that crashes against the cliffs below.
In a town with such a diverse landscape, the hiking trails offer exploration into all aspects of Santa Barbara’s natural world. It’s easy to lose yourself in the wilderness, surrounded by the shade of oak trees or the tangled branches of manzanita. The fresh mountain air will rejuvenate your senses and you’ll leave the trail feeling closer to nature than ever before. Some locals say that a true appreciation for what Santa Barbara has to offer can only be learned from hiking through its wilderness. But you don’t have to take their word for it. You can hit the trail and see for yourself.