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    7 Falls Hike

    4.3 (38 reviews)

    7 Falls Hike Photos

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    Entrance at spyglass ridge / tunnel road
    George L.

    As if Jan 14, 2017, 7 Falls and 3 Pools is filled with water with lots of creekside rock hopping and legit rock climbing. It's a 2-2.5 hour round trip, moderately difficult hike with a rocky ascent through the creek, so prepared to bring a change of socks and shoes (I used $10 water shoes from Kmart). To get there, Enter this in Google Maps to get there: Spyglass Ridge Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 ------------------------------------------------ When you're on Mission Canyon Road, you'll have to park on the side street. There's no public parking, and be sure to be within the curb to not get towed. Once you're up there, go right of the water tower and KEEP HEADING on the FIRST LEFT at every fork on the trail until you have to cross the 2nd creek (1st one is over a wooden bridge). Once at the creek, turn right and walk along or in the creek until you get to the first pool. There's lots of poison oak on the trail so just avoid everything green :) The place is cool, to get to the 2nd pool climb on the right, there's some legit rock climbing up higher up at the 2nd big waterfall. It's deep enough to jump into the 2nd pool (not sure if the 1st pool is deep enough), and it's just a refreshing spot to hang after walking through cold water. Leave your electronics at the base. I saw a dude had to throw his phone and shirt across the 2nd pool to a friend because there's no easy way down from the 2nd pool jump spot without going in the water. And he threw his shirt into the deep end of the first pool -_-

    My private spot...
    Sidney S.

    "In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks." -- John Muir "Not all that wander are lost." -- Unknown One of my favorite hikes in the hills above Santa Barbara. Part of the Tunnel Trail system, you can wander to your hearts continue to and fro to the Falls and beyond...all the way to the top of Inspiration Point or, on another trail, all the way till it ends near the fire damage. The hike is about 2 or 3 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 800 ft. I prefer adding additional hikes on the surrounding trail system. Parking at the trailhead, which is located at the end of Tunnel Rd in a congested neighborhood, is limited and strict. You must park behind the white line or else they really do ticket and tow. You can get to the Falls, by hiking, from the other entrance on San Roque Rd for the Jesusita Trail.

    Connie W.

    Parking along the Tunnel Road was packed in the afternoon. I asked some hikers along the way to confirm if we were on the correct trail since there were no signs. Most people were going to Inspiration Point, there were only one other family from Canada that we shared 7 Falls with. They also had a mom in there group so I figure I can do this. We came in end of Dec so the creek was mostly dried. But the bouldering was technical and adventurous fun. Would like to come back with my Keen shoes when there are pools of water. I thank God that I am still able to share these activities and memories with my family.

    Breeding pool for California newts. Please respect the wildlife and wear non toxic sunscreen while swimming.
    Francesca H.

    Lovely place to view wildlife. Home to some elusive animals. On behalf of the wildlife I ask that when swimming wear non toxic sunscreen and watch out for breeding newts. Spring is the season for mating amphibians and they hang out in the pools where people often swim. Please also respect the aquatic two stripes garter snakes that often hang out in the pools. I'm writing this because not all wildlife is respected, as recently a beheaded mountain kingsnake was discovered here, one of the most elusive animals in SB county, likely killed by a human. Please leave the wildlife be and enjoy the views!

    Jay O.

    Fun hike but since the actual trail doesn't actually start until after a decent trek up the hill our 12/9 yr olds were getting tired after we made it a mile and a half down the trail. A lot of personally responsible folks were wearing masks as we passed each other and the views were well worth it.

    The pup loved the hike
    Othman M.

    (2/22/17) : after all the rain fall the river is flowing and all of the pools are full! The water is pretty cold but if you make it to the top it's refreshing to jump in as the water is so clean and clear! The past couple times I have done this hike the pools and river were dry and what water was there seemed toxic. This time the lush greenery, crystal clear waters and open blue skies made this hike definitely one to repeat! PS: saw bats flying around and getting really close to us, in the middle of the day...

    Mickey H.

    Years ago, I've hiked Seven Falls and I clearly remembered how easily it was to get lost in the trails here. I was fortunate enough to find local hikers along the way to assist with directing me to the water pools. I vaguely recalled the trail BUT I could never forget about those beautiful, unique swimming pools which took a little bit of bouldering to get up to. It was worth every muscle in my bone to get up there... Recently, I've been around town for a business trip and was reminded about this trail that I've visited years and years ago. But this time around, I made sure to come fully equipped with knowledge to avoid getting lost again. So here's the skinny about this hiking path...there are TWO parts to this hike. One that leads to a scenic lookout point with views of SB and the Channel Islands (called the Inspiration Point) and the other path called "Seven Falls." Both trails are doable altogether if you have some spare time. Inspiration Point is about 3.5 miles RT and Seven Falls is about 2.5 miles RT. I personally, prefer the Seven Falls hike over Inspiration Point because being an LA native, we have tons of trails with similar scenic views of the city so Inspiration Point didn't really appeal to me. But let me tell you about Seven Falls...this is the trail to do if you're looking for something unique, adventurous, moderate and something that's picturesque. Directions to 7 falls: As you walk along the paved road after about a mile in, the road turns to dirt. Keep walking ahead until you reach the turnoff to Inspiration Pt. Instead of following the above to Inspiration Point, turn RIGHT and head up to a very steep trail that takes you above 7 falls and back down to a creek again. Due to this current drought, you might not be able to see the abundance of water like years ago but the bouldering aspect of this hike is still worth the visit. I personally think hiking involving some bouldering makes for an adventure. After all, life is about seeking an adventure. The name of 7 falls meant there are 7 deep series of pools but recently, you'll notice because its DRY, you'll only see a few pools. Also to note, there's a man-made rope attached to a rock where you can use to assist yourself for climbing higher. I thought that was quite fun and endearing. =D Parking - quite limited. I just parked along the side near the residential neighborhood along a dirt road. Good luck with parking, can't really give you any tips there.

    One of the pools beyond the falls.
    Anne C.

    This is one of our regular hikes... though I guess I'm using the term 'hike' liberally. It's mostly scrambling/climbing over rocks and wading through streams. And for my boyfriend, it's an opportunity to jump around like a mountain goat. There are a couple of different ways of doing this hike, one of which takes you around the mountain and you end up at the pools at falls at the top, but we prefer the gutsy route (i.e. more dangerous and fun): upstream through the water. It is really easy to get lost on this hike, so it helps to go with someone who has done this before. It also helps to be flexible, have no fear afraid to do stuff (like climbing vertical rock walls), and be prepared to get wet! This route normally takes a good 4-5 hours round trip if you make it all the way to the pools, longer if you're bringing people who have never done it before and might be hesitant. Depending on the time of year and how much rain we've had the pools, especially the first one at the giant waterfall can get really deep and people will line up to slide down the falls into the pool. Generally this is pretty safe if the water is high. For pretty detailed directions getting there, Santa Barbara Hikes has a pretty awesome step-by-step guide: http://santabarbarahikes.com/hikes/frontcountry/3pools.shtml If you can make it up all the way past the seven falls, which are lovely and fun (especially going down), there are three very tranquil pools. This is a lovely spot to relax a bit before the excitement getting back down. My boyfriend swears up and down he's seen wild turkeys just beyond those, but no one believes him. Musts for this hike: water-appropriate shoes (we like Vibram five finger shoes, though sometimes sand will sneak in), leave your electronics at home!, and bring lots of water and substantial snacks

    Start of the hike -  paved trail
    Lucky S.

    Very cool hike. Here is what I remember - There is really no parking lot to speak of so you will be trying to find a spot to park on the street in a residential neighborhood. Plan on a pre-hike to get to the trail! You take the middle road from the street up to the beginning of the trail which starts off on a paved road that winds up. After crossing a bridge, you get to a Y and begin hiking on dirt. I'm not sure where going to the right leads. I chose the one on the left, which ended up at Inspiration Point. On the way, you cross a creek and water pool. I suppose if there was water, there would be a small waterfall. Unfortunately there was none and no salamanders to be found. :( The trail is deceivingly steep and rocky in spots, but overall very manageable. Round trip from the parked car was about 5 miles. I would definitely recommend hiking shoes and wearing layers. It gets cold and damp in areas, but hot in others. Sunscreen and plenty of water is also a must. And people....PICK UP AFTER YOUR DOG. There are bags at the entrance of the trail. USE THEM!

    The falls... (photo by Elena Z)
    Jeremy S.

    The trail begins on a paved access road that the Edison Company uses. After a mile the road turns to dirt and you follow it just a little more toward the turnoff to Inspiration Pt. Instead of going to Inspiration Pt, you turn right and slosh your way up the creek to 7 Falls. The hike is about 3 or 4 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 800 ft. The creek and falls are beautiful and secluded. The cold water and warm rocks are teeming with life (newts, lizards, etc). Bouldering up the creek is good fun, but be careful it can be a bit slippery/dangerous at times. If you're agile and in decent shape you'll have no trouble.

    Tiffie L.

    This is a GREAT hike that is both scenic and challenging! Finding the 7 Falls really should not be challenging, but when I went last week there was a big arrow in white chalk pointing one direction when you reach a fork in the road to the right -- DO NOT follow it! That takes you to the top of the mountain, not the falls!! Go left for the falls. If you want to go bouldering, 7 Falls is a great place for this! My boyfriend, brother & I spent almost 3 hours (1 hour following that misleading arrow) at 7 Falls and we had a fantastic time. We had all done indoor rock climbing before, but this was the first outdoor experience! It was a challenge, but if I can do, so can you! Plus, the trail along the creek up the 7 falls are pretty overgrown and we were told there is poison oak! When in the SB area, I would definitely stop by 7 Falls again. We only made up about halfway but next time I'd like to see ALL 7 falls.

    We hiked to the pools yesterday and were able to jump into and swim in pool 3 even though the first two were almost dried out. The good thing about that was that one could hike completely through the creek and do some climbing! The only negative thing to say is that we found it quite difficult to find the paths and stay on them. I also lost my brown and gold earring somewhere around there. I must have lost it getting dressed again after the refreshing swim. It has great sentimental value and I would be very grateful if I were contacted should it be found. Thank you!

    Trail entrance where Tunnel Rd meets these two cross streets

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    Ask the Community - 7 Falls Hike

    Review Highlights - 7 Falls Hike

    If you continue straight on the trail just after passing the creek you'll be heading toward Inspiration Point.

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    Douglas Family Preserve - Pearl and a too-big stick.

    Douglas Family Preserve

    4.8(188 reviews)
    4.5 mi

    We had no idea that this nice easy trail existed when he headed out to Santa Barbara with our 9year…read moreold lab mix for a 4 night vacay. What a great find this place was. Parking is Free and Plentiful -- In early August 2025 we showed up at 6:30pm on a Monday (to hike the preserve). There was tons of parking in the lots that abut The Boathouse, and the lots are always free for the public. There is also free street parking on the street just past the traffic circle. The hike/trail (The Douglas Family Preserve): A nice easy trail, and really fun for the doggos as it is an off-leash area. I'd say that half the people we saw on the trail had a pup, while the other half had no pets. The loop from the ground to the top and back is 1.5miles. There is 150 feet of elevation gain over a distance of about 1/3 of a mile; the rest of the hike is flat (w/ a large mesa at the top with lots of interconnected trails if you want to make the hike more extensive than a 1.5mile loop). Our dog not only enjoyed the walk, but had lots of fun trying to start some small play sessions with other dogs that she saw on the trail. Bonus: this trail uses the same parking lot as Hendry's Beach (Arroyo Burro Beach), which is leash free along the coastline east of the lifeguard tower (to the left of the lifeguard tower if you are facing the ocean).

    It's nice to see how different the ocean views and the vegetation on this trail changes in…read moredifference seasons. I had previously visited in September and this visit it is May. Still a nice day to walk and enjoy the cool ocean breeze, friendly people and dogs on the trail.

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    Douglas Family Preserve - Me and Cooper

    Me and Cooper

    Douglas Family Preserve
    Douglas Family Preserve - ** Dogs Welcome ** ** on and off leash ** Starting the BarkDay celebration early!

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    ** Dogs Welcome ** ** on and off leash ** Starting the BarkDay celebration early!

    Montecito Peak Hike - Creek.. I guess?

    Montecito Peak Hike

    4.9(7 reviews)
    4.0 mi

    She came from out of town and said she wanted to do something fun…read more.. The conversation shifted to the hot springs in this neck of the woods... From the tone of my voice... She said I was unenthusiastic about it. But then I thought..... On our way to this place... The first thing that came off weird to me was parking.. Their isn't much parking This is about the only negative thing I have to say... I'm not an avid hiker I really don't go hiking at all In the middle of the day I was walking towards "The peak" Out of all days that could be chosen I found gold The weather was superb... Of course it had it's weird breaks (heat and sun) For the most part it was great And if you want a great experience Choose a day featuring great weather.. The hike up had lots of elevated climb to it I loved it... Their was lots to look at I didn't encounter any strange animals/ indigenous people or what have you I did see a bright blue dragon fly that seemed to follow me Wherever I went... The people along the hike we're friendly and nice We all seemed to share the same thoughts "Lost and confused " Not sure what hikes are to entail But this one would definitely called for strength, calories and hydration... You will need all that.. There was off beaten paths that led to points of scratching my head.. And in those moments I just turned around and went the way I came... While all this was happening I was reminded how far we have come along as humans How tough things were for our ancestors Just how appreciative I am for the life I have

    (I am more than confused with what trail(s) are actually located here, and need to state that sadly…read moreI hadn't hiked here pre-fire and flood.) My first trip I was trying to locate Tangerine Falls, which may or may not be located on the other side of the washed out area of E. Mountain Drive. So once I turned my car around and was heading back to Olive Mill/Hot Springs Road I found a very small place to park. (NOTE: If that small area is full, you can park on Riven Rock Drive.) I began the trail, again fully thinking I was heading for Tangerine Falls. (But even today, as I check Google Maps, they call this: HOT SPRINGS CANYON TRAIL HEAD.) - so doesn't that constitute a name change? As a very beginner hiker the trail starts fast. I had boots and walking poles, which helped my footing immensely, Once I realized I had no idea where I was headed to I asked a few people for help who were on the trail, too. They informed me that now (post fire and flood) the way to access Tangerine Falls is via Gibraltar Road. Lots of dark green trees, lots of black burned trees, too. There is a place where you cross the road and then continue on the trail. After about 1/2 mile, I believe, there are 2 signs that gave direction to HOT SPRINGS trail, and I think there may have been a bridge (since washed out) where you could cross the creek to hike another trails? SEE PHOTO - Not too sure about this though, only inferring from the signs and what *looked like where a bridge may have been. I wasn't confident crossing over fallen trees and logs to cross the creek to literally "see what was on the other side". I did hike just a bit past this sign - and the trail is very narrow and drops off steep to the creek. Since I am a big newbie I turned around from there ASAP, but quite a few people flew right past me. Again, this review is from a newbie hiker. I'm in love with this place regardless and am determined to figure out what exactly is up there still and what trails a hiker has access to. (Cold? Hot? Tangerine? San Ysidro? Saddle Rock? What else?) Since I'm not a local I am putting together piece by piece on my own as I can. Apparently there are hotel ruins up higher as well? Expect more pictures ASAP! And bring water, good shoes, and maybe a trekking pole if you're a newbie like me. :)

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    Montecito Peak Hike
    Montecito Peak Hike - Wonderful hike to the top!

    Wonderful hike to the top!

    Montecito Peak Hike - Burned tree 5/15/2020

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    Burned tree 5/15/2020

    Enjoy The Mountain - Such a nice place to visit

    Enjoy The Mountain

    4.7(48 reviews)
    3.8 mi

    great place! we had a terrific experience and will definatly go back. maybe next year or the year…read moreafter

    My two brothers and I spent the long Thanksgiving weekend in Solvang and decided to end our trip…read morewith an ATV tour in the Santa Barbara mountains before heading back to L.A. Best decision ever! Although getting to the meeting point was a bit scary as we drove 15 mph through winding roads next to steep cliffs, the views were nice and the ATV experience was totally worth it! We gave ourselves plenty of time to get lost and it took us about 1.5 hours to get to the checkpoint. Luckily Google Maps was on the entire time and we even had an hour to kill on top of the mountain before our 12:30pm appointment. (Also had screenshots of the directions in case we lost service). Upon arrival, we met with the two girls who were wearing face masks and face shields so we felt safe. They had all the sanitizing stuff. They checked us all in, gave us each a mesh covering for our head, pairs of gloves, goggles and helmets. They offered different insurance plans (just like a rental car company), each ranging in price. Then, they walked us over to the ATVs where Jorge was our tour guide. He asked us if we've ever rode before and taught us how to use the automatic ATVs and made us feel comfortable and safe. (Throttle was on the right handle bar and brakes on the left. Second brake was a foot pedal). We drove on wide and narrow trails, over some fun rocky areas, kicking up lots of dust, and he took photos of us the entire time. This was a great family bonding experience and we're all still talking about how fun it was and want to do it again. Know Before You Go: It gets dusty so wear clothes and closed toe shoes that you're ok getting dirty. Give yourself plenty of time to drive to the location because the last thing you want to do is rush through the scary mountain roads. 10/10 would definitely do this again!

    Photos
    Enjoy The Mountain - Christy, Sean and Steven

    Christy, Sean and Steven

    Enjoy The Mountain - Jorge told us to get off the ATVs and took this photo of us with the cool mountain background

    Jorge told us to get off the ATVs and took this photo of us with the cool mountain background

    Enjoy The Mountain

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    7 Falls Hike - hiking - Updated May 2026

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