This is a noteworthy avenue to the hiking path. It takes one up to the area below La Cumbre Peak, and Seven Falls.

We hiked from the trailhead just north of the Cater Water Treatment Plant up to Inspiration Point and back. Total mileage was about 7.4 miles, and it was a great hike. A good amount of trees and shade. The trail was very pleasant on the eyes most of the way, and you start to see the views of the city and ocean on some of the switchbacks at 2.5mi and 3mi. The turn around point is Inspiration Point, and what a great place to have that sandwich you packed with you: Inspiration Point has expensive views, and the area is nice and flat. We got two hikes in, while in SB; this one and Romero Canyon. We both greatly preferred Jesusita (pronounced "Hay Sue See Ta" ) over Romero Canyon. read more

Jesusita Trail - Hiking Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Jesusita Trail is a solid hike, about 3-4 miles round trip up to Inspiration Point depending on where you start. It's a good enough distance mile wise for beginners & enough of an incline climb for seasoned hikers to get a good workout depending on how hard they push it. We started our hike a little on the late side around 11am during the weekend so we had to park on the side of the road about a half mile from where the road to the trail starts. The start of this trail also leads to the Tunnel Trail, for the Jesusita Route you'll want to stay to the left once the concrete road ends about a half mile into the hike. There are a few other directions the trail leads to, we took it up to inspiration point, I'll continue the experience of this hike with my review of that site next. read more

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If you're looking for an easy hike but one that still gives you a good workout and has your legs feeling sore the next day, then you must check out Jesusita Trail. Apparently this trail takes you as far up to Inspiration Point if you want to make it more challenging but we didn't venture that far. Right now is the time to go since we've had so much rain this year; it's brought out so many beautiful colorful flowers. I haven't seen so much green in our mountains in over a decade! Our creeks have running water again, and the sound of it is so peaceful. It's the simple things like this that make me feel very blessed to live in such a beautiful place. Directions are simple, just head towards the mountains on San Roque Rd. until you see the Cater water treatment plant. If you get there early enough parking will be easy. This hike is 7 miles round trip, and a little steep at times with some rocky trails. I don't have hiking shoes yet but I was still comfortable wearing my running shoes, but if I hiked up to Inspiration Point then that definitely requires hiking shoes. Most of the trail is shady so you won't be exposed for long periods of time if your hiking on a clear warm day. Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and other hiking essentials to get you through. There is one picnic table in the midst of the trail for those that wish to take a break and have a bite to eat. On our hike we came across a lot of dogs so this is a very dog friendly hike. They especially love jumping into the creeks just like little kids. It was great to see how happy they were splashing in the water. Some of the creeks require crossing the water to get back on the path so be prepared to use your balancing skills while using the rocks to get across. Overall a must do hike for those that are looking for a fun outdoor adventure! Looking forward to going back soon to trek up Inspiration Point. read more

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This trail was nice. Some good incline but nothing too crazy. Follow the trail because there are some private property that could mislead you in the wrong direction. read more

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An A1 hiking trail- picturesque views and clear trail markings along the way apart from where it veers off to become Inspiration Point. Good thing there was service up there otherwise we wouldn't have known we reached the peak! - Parking was simple. Near the water plant facility, there was a small lot right next to the trailhead, but be careful of the raised edge if your car is low to the floor! You can also park across the street in the dirt. - Be prepared for rocks, tree roots, puddles, small stream crossings, elevation, and inclines! There was also some poison oak along the trail so be sure to wear some high socks. Bring plenty of water! - 3-4 hour round trip - Everyone was really friendly (bikers, dogs and dog walkers) read more

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Always a great hike, 4.1 miles. Go as far as you want; you can always stop and turn back. Going up the trail or coming back it's picturesque and a great workout. Right now it is a real treat because you can hear the creek water running and bubbling over the rocks at least half of the way up. You will see lots of green and some flowers right now as well. Have good hiking shoes you do have to cross the creek a few times and the rocks can be slippery. If you go all the way to top the view if Santa Barbara is outstanding. Today we were pressed for time to beat the dark and went around 2 miles up and turned back. A little to many roots and rocks for me to hike this trail in the dark. Starting early in morning is best. See you on the trails read more

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It was my first time hiking in the Santa Barbara area and I really liked this hike. I think it could have been a 5 start hike if I had hiked it on a clear day. Parking- we easily found parking along the side of the road on the right side near the trailhead...which is on the left side of the road Trail- the sign at the start states that the trail is 4.2 miles with 641 ft of elevation gain...not sure what that is based on, but if you are like me and wish to take this trail to Inspiration Point and back it was 7.1 miles for me with an elevation gain of 1,600 ft...so quite a bit of difference there; the trail is easy to follow and the first 1.5 goes north and sticks close to the creek and the water was running with some recent rain; the trail then leaves the trees and heads in a NE direction through a more open sort of grassland area and you will cross a road and some private property nearby and then the incline kicks in for the final mile or so with some switchbacks up to Inspiration Point...which I didn't see any signs but I had my All Trails app to verify we had made it there and there were some other hikers there already but sadly there was no view to enjoy since it was an extremely overcast and foggy morning (4/2/18) and visibility was maybe 200 yards so there was no view of the ocean or island sadly; the hike was green, with the sound of running water for most of the time, and great views of the mountains to the northeast...I just wished we could have seen the ocean...FYI dogs are allowed on this trail off leash which doesn't bother me but might bother some *the second half of the hike we really worked up a sweat not only because it was steeper but it was very humid and there was a light mist/drizzle Of course bring plenty of water and hiking shoes or shoes with good traction, trekking poles are not needed for this hike. Plan on this hike taking about 3-4 hours. I would rate this as moderately difficult. read more

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My hiking partner and I hiked the Jesusita Trail to Inspiration Point. It was a Friday about 11:00 a.m. Finding the trail head was fairly easy, following the trail was fairly easy once you got into it, but we did get off the path a few times and had to ask some other hikers. Even though the trail to inspiration point via Jususita Trail is about 7 miles up and back it seemed a lot longer. A lot of going back and forth to reach the top. We must of only passed a handfull people each time concerned that we had enough water. When you hit the ending of the Jususita trail it is like what reviews say, you go through a private property gate and continue to Inspiration Point. Jususita Trail is definitely a hike worth doing. The day we went, hardly any other hikers were to be seen, the hikers we saw had dogs but not bothersome as some reviewers say. No mountain bikers at all during our entire hike. Do bring wear proper shoes, and bring water. read more

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This is a great trail and it's in really good shape right now. There are a couple flowing Creeks so just be aware of a little slippery rock crossing here and there. I love that this trail has so much shade and there's always tons of lizards running around. It's really green and lush right now. It's great that it's right in the city and it's perfect when I just want a quick hour hike after work I do the beginning of the trail in and out. read more

Multiple ways to get up here. It gets hot, so bring water and snacks, its kind of a long hike, with mixed open/shade, and lots of switchbacks with uneven ground and quasi-steep grade. *Someone should really make a zipline happen, that shoots back to Santa Barbara. Refresher on trail etiquette: http://blog.rei.com/hike/trail-etiquette-who-has-the-right-of-way/ read more

Jesusita Trail - Made it - Hiking Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Partly shaded trail (key in this heatwave) with several different ecosystems along the way. Nice ascent and what should be a great payoff at the top with ocean views, however not always a guarantee with smog/cloudcover. Alas, the view did not come out for us, but we did have a great time and great workout on the way to the top. Good for dog-walkers and beginner hikers seeking a 3-4 hour hike. My main complaint is the trailhead and path weren't that well marked and there are several offshoot paths that fooled us in the first 2 miles and had us taking several unanticipated detours and wandering onto private property. It is nice though that one of the farms it tramps through has decided to provide a little shade and water to those who wander. Drought is clearly present here too - no sign of a creek or stream at all in early September. read more

Jesusita Trail - view toward the top - Hiking Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

I just discovered this trail last year. I love hiking here. The trail follows the creek most of the way and is pretty secluded once you get far enough back. The first mile or so of the trail is relatively flat and easy to hike. The trail meets up with a paved road after a bit and cuts through someone's ranch before heading uphill. The majority of the trail is shaded until you meet up with a dirt/gravel utility road just before Inspiration Point. This trail is much less crowded than Cold Springs (my favorite) so it makes for a nice alternative. A little way into the trail is a fork that is the beginning of the Arroyo Burro trail. I usually stick to the Jesusita Trail, I think it's more fun. Beware of the large number of mountain bikers on this one. read more

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This is seriously one of the most well rounded hikes in the area. You can start this hike from Steven's Park, which is what I prefer, or from San Roque road next to the water treatment plant. If you start from the park, it is about a 7.4 mile round trip or if you start on San Roque Rd about 6.2 miles round trip. This hike has it all: a park, a stream which you cross at several points, beautiful views, aggressively inclined switchbacks, competitive distance and heck, it even throws in some horsies. Most of the crossings are easy so don't worry, you might not get wet. I enjoy the crossings and several access points where you can frolic in the water. The last stretch, about half a mile, is pretty sunny and it leads up to none other than Inspiration point. If you start at San Roque rd, be careful with the parking lot on the left side when you're facing the mountain because it has a tremendously high curb which will wreck your chassis. read more

This is a local well kept trail! Once we got closer to "Inspiration Point", we were definitely feeling the burn having passed all the switch backs. There is enough shade in the beginning of the trail, but towards the end, it can be treacherous. Be sure to stay hydrated and be prepared for this to take about 4-5 hours. Happy Trails! read more

Jesusita Trail - Hiking Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

We hiked this trail for the first time on Feb 12, 2011. We didn't know what to expect from an 8.2 mile (rountrip) hike. The trial isn't so bad. The beginning portion is a breeze, crossing over creeks (which was very cool and don't see in San Diego) and small inclines. It's not until midway that the hike starts to pick up. There's a point in the trail where you come to about 4 BIG steps. I'm 5'1" and these steps were considered high for me! Towards the last 30 minutes of the hike up, it's ALL uphill, and the trail swirls back and forth til you reach the towers. It took us (a group of 4) a total of ~3 hours to complete the trail (back and fourth). read more

This is the longer trail to Inspiration point, completely different scenery compared to tunnel trail. Be very careful with your footing and for those rattlesnakes because some parts of the trail next to the cliff are covered with overgrowth and hard to see. I'd wait for the cooler seasons to hike this area because of that. But anyways. Great views. Lots of steep areas. View is worth the hike. read more

The hike is easy the first half. Some small inclines but nothing hard. You pass by an avocado farm, grass field and a stream. Then you enter a nice stream which supports a cool wooded forest. Finally, you get to the private property and this is where the fun moderate second part begins. Make sure to fill your bottle. As you go in an s- shaped trail up, you will have plenty of opportunities to see the coast line. Unfortunately my girlfriend and I, were only able to reach the narrow trail before turning back because sunset was coming soon. Love this trail. read more

Jesusita Trail - Walking up the second half of the Jesusita Trail! - Hiking Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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Favorite jogging trail in SB- There is great variety going by creeks, beautiful trees and even a meadow- Then uphill to inspiration point with beautiful views there and along the way. Think the the first parts by the creeks and large trees would be fun for kids. Never had a problem with parking at the trailhead- Highly recommend!! read more

I really enjoyed this trail. It was easy to find, plenty of parking in front of the trailhead. There are a lot of trees providing shade throughout most of the way. Although it does goes thru a sunny meadow and the top is treeless. I did this around noon and the sun was not unbearable. It took me about 3 hours to go to the top and back. But I stopped a few times including a short meditation at the top :) the views are just incredible. I have no idea if I reached inspiration point...the road at the top looked to go on for a loong time but I didn't continue on. I felt inspired enough at the point I got to lol It was a good workout - lots of steep inclines and big steps to conquer. As well as some flat areas for trail running or casual walking to catch your breath. Ran into quite a few other hikers as well as some bikers...and a horse! Must see! read more

A nicely kept trail good for a moderate hike and some great nature views. The stream wasn't active due to lack of rainfall but I can imagine it to flow fairly strong after a recent downpour. Lots of ancient oak. I started on Franklin Park trail and connected via the Arroyo Burro trail. For parking, I parked on San Roque and entered on the west side of the road. read more

It was a relatively easy hike to the halfway point (water fountain) but then it got a little more challenging as it became steeper. Only one wrong turn but was able to meet up with the correct trail. It is a 4 mile hike to the top. Once we got to inspiration point we were so glad to have continued on as it was truly a gorgeous sight. However no markers so it was hard to know how much further since we did not know it was 4 miles up. Glad we went. Loved the trail. read more

Jesusita Trail - Hiking Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

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This hike is best done towards the end of the afternoon into the evening. Unless of course you're one of those and like to torment yourself with high heat and bugs. It is definitely less crowded in the evening. Be prepared for rocks in the trail and elevation. But it is totally worth it. View from the top was amazing!! You could see large stretches of Santa Barbara city and also the coastal waters. And there are lots of trees and vegetation to help provide much appreciated shade. read more

Beautiful trail that starts with plenty of tree cover offering a shady, cool hike - at least half way to the top of inspiration point. If you are heading to the point bring lots of water and a snack. The view is spectacular! One of my favorite hikes of all time. -Bring water for your dog. -Bring water for yourself. -Bring snacks. -Leave nothing behind. read more

This hike is about 5~6 miles long , if you start from the water plant facility. Like what everybody says, park by the water plant facility, its easier and you won't get towed (unless you suck at parking). Come early if you want good parking! The trail is at the bottom (left side, away from the main road) near the water plant. It's definitely shady and lots of creek crossing. Beware, you might trip on the rocks and fall into the water. But, its soo peaceful and theres not many bugs out if you come early. We didn't see any wild animals, but i hear there is poison oak all around. We went from 8am ~ 12pm. About 4 hr hike round trip, you will cross 3-4 streams along the way and there is a uphill after you pass the gate. I definitely got a good workout and when you reach the power lines, theres this huge gap that you have to jump. Wear good shoes and bring food if you don't want to faint or starve or both. Stay hydrated! There were lots of people with their dogs running up and down this trail. Stay to the main trail, don't veer off into the wilderness, you might not like what you see. XD Anyways, the inspiration point is indeed GORGEOUS and SPECTACULAR and WORTH the 4 hr hike. It's just wow, that feeling of accomplishment and stress-relieving. who woudln't like that?! read more