 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Grace C. Chang - Santa Barbara Hikes |
Montecito PeakDistance (R-T): 7 miles
This trail starts off the same as Cold Springs East. We can take either the switchback trail up, or follow the creek. When we reach the fire road, we take it. A single-track trail starts just after the large electrical pole. This is a pretty steep trail that takes us up to Montecito Peak. There is not much shade, but the views are extremely rewarding. If we haven't had enough, we can continue one more mile above Montecito Peak to Camino Cielo, but it's pretty boring to the road. 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 up Mountain Drive until the creek crosses the road. Park on the street near this lack-of-bridge and the trailhead is to the right of the creek if you are facing upstream. Also see Cold Springs East, Cold Springs West, or Tangerine Falls. |