5 Best Trails in Santa Barbara

Trails Council’s Top Trail Picks

Looking for fun outdoor activities in Santa Barbara? Whether you’re craving ocean views, shaded creekside walks, or a good workout with a big payoff, these local trails are among the most popular and beloved hikes in the area. Each offers its own unique perspective of the South Coast, from waterfalls and wildflowers to sweeping vistas of the Channel Islands.

#1 Seven Falls

• Distance: 3.4 miles out-and-back
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 856 feet
• AllTrails: Seven Falls Trail

Overview: A scenic hike up Mission Canyon to one of Santa Barbara’s most cherished landmarks. Following Mission Creek, the trail leads to a series of cascading waterfalls and deep sandstone pools sculpted over centuries. Expect lush greenery, mossy rocks, and light scrambling for the adventurous. Learn more about Seven Falls.

Hiker Tip: Go in winter or early spring when water is flowing — the falls and pools are at their best.

#2 Tunnel Trail to Inspiration Point

• Distance: 3.5 miles out-and-back
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 944 feet
• AllTrails: Inspiration Point Trail

Overview: A steady climb with nearly constant views of the Santa Barbara coastline. The historic Tunnel Trail winds through chaparral and sandstone outcrops before reaching Inspiration Point, where you’ll find sweeping vistas of the Pacific, Channel Islands, and Santa Ynez Mountains. Make sure you turn onto the Jesusita Trail to reach the top. Learn more about Tunnel Trail to Inspiration Point.

Hiker Tip: Sunrise or sunset hikes here are magical — but parking close to the trailhead is limited. Arrive early or risk adding an extra uphill mile if you have to park further down the road. Bring a flashlight if you go late.

#3 Jesusita Trail

• Distance: 7 miles out-and-back
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 1,574 feet
• AllTrails: Jesusita Trail

Overview: Starting near Stevens Park, this trail takes you through riparian woodlands and up into chaparral-covered canyons. It eventually reaches Inspiration Point (different route, same summit), with stunning views of Santa Barbara, Lauro Canyon Reservoir, and the Channel Islands. Learn more about Jesusita Trail.

Hiker Tip: Parts of this trail cross private property. Please respect signage and remain on designated paths.

#4 Rattlesnake Canyon Trail

• Distance: 5 miles out-and-back
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: ~1,000 feet
• AllTrails: Rattlesnake Canyon

Overview: A shady, creekside hike beloved by locals. The trail follows a year-round stream with small waterfalls and pools, all under a canopy of oaks and sycamores. Higher up, the views open to reveal the coastline and Channel Islands. Learn more about Rattlesnake Canyon Trail.

Hiker Tip: Despite the name, rattlesnake sightings are rare — the name comes from its serpentine shape!

#5 Parma Park Ridge Trail

• Distance: 3.3 miles loop
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 500 feet
• AllTrails: Parma Park Trail

Overview: A peaceful escape within Santa Barbara city limits, Parma Park offers nearly 200 acres of open space with grasslands, chaparral, and woodlands. The Ridge Trail loop climbs to Rowe’s Table (775 feet), where you’ll find panoramic views of the city and coastline. Learn more about Parma Park Ridge Trail.

Hiker Tip: Great for a quick after-work or morning hike — dogs are welcome on-leash.

Get out there and explore! You can find more details about these trails in Santa Barbara and others here: https://santabarbaratrails.org/trails/santa-barbara-area/