Best Hiking Trails in Montecito

1. Hot Springs Canyon Trail

Difficulty: Moderate Trailhead: End of East Mountain Drive Distance: 3.5 miles round trip

Description: This popular trail winds through a lush canyon, following a seasonal creek up to the remains of historic hot spring pools. The pools are no longer the resort attraction they once were, but small natural springs still bubble to the surface.

Views: Along the way, you’ll enjoy shaded paths, rocky outcrops, and — near the top — panoramic views over Montecito and the Pacific Ocean.

2. Saddle Rock Trail

Difficulty: Moderate to Hard Trailhead: Park along East Mountain Drive near Park Lane Distance: 2.5 miles round trip

Description: Short but steep, this trail climbs quickly up the foothills, rewarding hikers with incredible views. It’s a workout, but well worth the effort for those who want big payoffs without a long hike.

Views: Expect sweeping, unobstructed views of Santa Barbara, the coastline, and the Channel Islands on a clear day.

3. Romero Canyon Trail

Difficulty: Moderate Trailhead: Romero Canyon Road Distance: 5.5 miles round trip

Description: Romero Canyon offers a quieter, less-traveled hike through shaded oak groves and alongside a seasonal creek. The trail loops into open ridgelines with gentle elevation gain, making it a manageable but satisfying outing.

Views: You’ll find a mix of canyon, mountain, and ocean vistas, with occasional glimpses back toward the city and sea.

4. San Ysidro Trail

Difficulty: Moderate Trailhead: San Ysidro Trailhead at East Mountain Drive Distance: 4.3 miles round trip to the waterfall

Description: This classic Montecito hike leads through shaded canyon terrain up to a seasonal waterfall. After heavier rains, the falls can be impressive — a rare sight in Southern California.

Views: The trail is scenic throughout, with creek crossings, rock formations, and lovely shaded stretches under sycamores and oaks. Higher sections offer coastal views.

5. Cold Spring Trail (Lower Section)

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Trailhead: Cold Spring Trailhead on East Mountain Drive Distance: 2 miles round trip

Description: The lower section of Cold Spring Trail is perfect for those seeking a shorter, more casual hike. The path follows Cold Spring Creek and is often shaded, with gentle elevation changes.

Views: Expect serene forested scenery, trickling streams in winter and spring, and glimpses of the ocean as you ascend gently.

6. Buena Vista Trail

Difficulty: Moderate Trailhead: Buena Vista Park off Park Lane Distance: 3.5 miles round trip

Description: This lesser-known trail offers a peaceful hike through oak woodlands and up to open ridges. It connects with parts of the Hot Springs Trail for hikers looking to extend their adventure.

Views: At higher elevations, you'll catch spectacular vistas of Montecito’s estates, the coastline, and the deep blue stretch of the Pacific beyond.

Hiking Tips for Montecito:

• Start early: Trails are cooler and less crowded in the morning.

• Wear good shoes: Trails can be rocky and uneven in places.

• Bring water: Many trails offer little shade at higher elevations.

• Check weather: After heavy rain, creek crossings and trails can be muddy.

• Respect trail closures: Fire recovery and restoration areas may have temporary restrictions.

Montecito’s trails offer something for every pace and every mood — whether you want a peaceful canyon walk or a heart-pumping climb to a breathtaking view. Whichever path you choose, the reward is the same: the timeless beauty of the mountains meeting the sea.