Grace C. Chang - Santa Barbara Hikes

Distance (R-T): 3 miles
Elevation gain: 800 feet
Difficulty: Moderate

The destination for this hike is much better than the hike itself, particularly the beginning part. We start off by walking through neighborhoods. Eventually, we reach a trail and stay on it. It takes us to the top of a hill and then we can continue over the hill to the road. There are "No Trespassing" signs all along this road. Behind them, are the remains of the 1920's spas and the hot springs that were the reason behind building the spas. Banana trees grow amidst the pools of sulphury water. These are all on private property.

Driving directions (from the 101): Take the Hot Springs/Coast Village Road Exit and turn left toward the mountains. At the stop sign in front of the Shell Station, take a left onto Hot Springs Road. At some point, Hot Springs Road will force you to turn left (right will put you onto Olive Mill Road. Eventually, you'll reach the junction with Mountain Drive. Take a left (if you go straight, the road ends). Continue along Mountain Drive. Just before the bend in the road, park on the right side at the small parking lot (it looks like it is in someone's front yard). The trailhead is marked by a small sign.

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