Best Hiking Trails Near Santa Barbara

You can spend a lifetime hiking the parks, beaches, and wilderness in and around Santa Barbara. However, even visitors on quick trips can easily find excellent options for a variety of scenic hikes in the area.

Whether you desire an easy stroll, a challenging trek, or something in between, Santa Barbara boasts diverse hiking opportunities. Choices include coastal walks, beachfront paths, and routes that lead into the mountains, showcasing waterfalls, gardens, and breathtaking views.

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden: The Best Accessible Route for Casual Hikers

5.5 miles (9km) total, 2 hours, easy

Garden lovers will be thrilled by the trails winding through the beautiful settings at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. Located just three miles from downtown, these nearly 100-year-old gardens cover 78 acres and are equipped with 5.5 miles of hiking trails that are family-friendly and accessible to most visitors.

Explore over 1000 types of plants native to the region, where you can walk amidst coastal redwoods and meander through wildflower-covered meadows. Don’t miss the mission dam, a feature built in 1806 that now hosts a seasonal waterfall. Additionally, you’ll find a stunning section with over 60 subtypes of the manzanita tree, renowned for its strikingly colorful bark and ornamental appeal.

Arroyo Burro Beach: The Loveliest Coastal Hike

1.3 miles (2km) round trip, 1–2 hours, easy

For a delightful coastal experience, head to Arroyo Burro Beach. This cliff-top jaunt offers stunning views across the Pacific Ocean and visits a lovely Santa Barbara beach right within the city limits.

Beginning in Douglas Family Preserve, a 70-acre park along steep limestone cliffs, the looping trail follows the edge of the drop-off, providing constant visual rewards. Keep an eye out for migrating whales, dolphins, and seals throughout the year.

The trail leads down to Arroyo Burro Beach, known for its fine, light sand and sheltered from the waves by curving cliffs. After your hike, you can relax at a small café offering refreshments—a perfect way to unwind!

Gaviota State Park and Wind Caves: A Top Hike Through the Backcountry

5.7 miles (9.1km) round trip, 4 hours, moderate

The wind whistles through ancient limestone caves on this hike that starts near a beach and ascends into the picturesque hills of Gaviota State Park. The trail combines paved sections with dirt paths, rising about 600ft into untouched hills. Enjoy the typical seasonal Southern Grasslands, verdant with wildflowers in the spring.

Moreover, you may catch glimpses of wildlife such as gray foxes, coyotes, and deer in the shaded areas. Pause to soak in the spectacular vistas of the ocean below.

Accessing the hike is easy via Hwy 101. After your adventure, you can unwind at Gaviota Beach—it’s a beautiful, secluded spot featuring the historic Gaviota trestle, a notable railroad bridge.

La Cumbre Peak: A Challenging Route for Advanced Hikers

16 miles (25.8km) round trip, 10 hours, hard

For those seeking a rigorous hike, La Cumbre Peak offers an exhilarating experience. Starting next to San Roque Creek in Stevens Park, this trail traverses canyons and rock formations before reaching the summit of La Cumbre Peak (3986ft)—the tallest mountain in the area. The elevation gain across the route exceeds 4800ft, making it suitable only for seasoned hikers.

While the hike demands time and energy, the reward is truly rewarding. Experience splendid views of several peaks along the way. Be prepared for limited shade during the trek, so remember to bring protective gear and ample water.

Cold Spring Trail: The Best Hike for Waterfalls and Coastal Views

2.7 miles (4.4km) round trip, 2–3 hours, moderate

Just 6.5 miles from downtown, Cold Spring Trail features stunning views stretching along the coast, reaching out to the Channel Islands. The trail offers glimpses into Los Padres National Forest, and during winter and spring, nature enthusiasts can find tree-shaded pools and waterfalls fed by the trail’s namesake water source.

The trail begins with a steady uphill climb, where you can spot water lilies blooming in the damp, shaded sections during spring. In the fall, look for wild apple and pear trees, remnants of a long-vanished farm. The starting point for this mesmerizing hike is on E Mountain Dr.

Top Tips for Hiking Near Santa Barbara

• Visitors should be aware of California’s varying microclimates. A balmy day on the coast can rapidly transform into a chilly one as fog rolls in, dropping temperatures significantly. Therefore, layers and plenty of water are essential for your hike.

• Southern California trails can become quite busy on weekends. If possible, opt to hike during weekdays for a more tranquil experience amidst nature.

• Stay vigilant regarding your surroundings, as hikers may become complacent due to their proximity to Santa Barbara. The nearby Los Padres National Forest is vast, and many hikers have gotten lost due to similar-looking terrain and limited cell service.

• California’s wildfire season is almost year-round; thus, checking trail and park closures before heading out is crucial for safety.