Distance: 3.3 miles loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: Approximately 500 feet
Trail Highlights
Parma Park, a nearly 200-acre open space in Santa Barbara, offers hikers and equestrians a serene retreat featuring native landscapes such as chaparral, woodlands, grasslands, and scrublands. The Ridge Trail forms a 3.3-mile loop around the park, providing panoramic views of the city, coastline, and Channel Islands from vantage points like Rowe's Table, the park's highest point at 775 feet.
Trail Description
The Ridge Trail begins at the main entrance on Stanwood Drive, where a picnic area and equestrian staging area are available. The path ascends through diverse terrains, including shaded oak woodlands and open grasslands, offering a moderately strenuous hike with an elevation gain of about 500 feet. Hikers can enjoy the Historic Olive Grove Loop, winding through heritage olive trees from the former Parma Ranch, and the Plateau Trail, a gentle loop through restored native grasslands suitable for all abilities.
Directions
From downtown Santa Barbara, take Sycamore Canyon Road north to Stanwood Drive. Turn left and continue for approximately 0.7 miles to the main entrance of Parma Park, located at 1960 Stanwood Drive. Street parking is available near the entrance; please ensure not to block the park access.
Learn More
AllTrails: Parma Park Trail