The Red Rock Trail provides not only an enjoyable 3-4 hour hike, but provides you with some of the best swimming holes on the river. You can head in either direction on this loop though I tend to take the high road in and return along the river.
The front face of Ranger Peak is composed almost entirely of steep grassy hills which soften to rolling grass-covered hills further down. The riding leads through these open fields and in the spring is beautiful.
This trail leads across the north side of the Santa Ynez Mountains through open fields of grass and a series of ridges from Arroyo Burro Road to Gibraltar Dam. With the exception of the ups and downs caused by the ridgelines, surprisingly the trail is almost level, and high enough from the valley floor to provide scenic views of the canyon and the San Rafael Mountains.
This is the prettiest canyon in Santa Barbara. From its pine-crested start atop Figueroa Mountain to its end at Davy Brown Camp Fir Canyon is filled with lush vegetation, cascading pools and of course, tall firs trees. Continuing up via the Jeepway provides a great looop.
Though not a long ride, the road leads through beautiful pine forests to the top of Figueroa Mountain. From its 4,500′ crest you can see everywhere.
The Catway Road provides a wonderful way to get a feeling for the back country, wandering through pine forests and steep, grass-covered hillsides for 8 miles to the Zaca Overlook.
The trail leads through the Oso Narrows, a beautiful sandstone canyon formed of Matilija Sandstone, then connects with the Santa Cruz Trail.
Though a short hike, this trail provides a nice walk from the Lower Oso area and because it is fairly level, is nice for children. It can be extended into a longer hike by continuing through Upper Oso campground into Oso Canyon.
Aliso means “Sycamore” in Spanish and this delightful little canyon is full of them. Within the three mile loop you’ll find a variety of plant life, from riparian vegetation in the canyon to oak meadows and grass-covered hills on the upper part of the trail.
Snyder Trail provides a long hike, especially for those who are staying at Sage Hill. The trailhead is just a few hundred yards before you reach the Los Prietos Ranger Station where this camp is located.
