Hot Springs Canyon Trailhead: Montecito's Natural Spa
Hike to natural hot springs in Montecito, California, through scenic trails and historical landscapes. Open daily 8 AM to 5 PM.
Hot Springs Canyon Trailhead in Montecito, CA, offers a scenic hiking experience leading to natural hot springs. The trail winds through lush landscapes and diverse terrains, rewarding hikers with relaxing geothermal pools. Open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, it's a refreshing escape into nature's tranquility.
A brief summary to Hot Springs Canyon Trailhead
- 1202-1298 E Mountain Dr, Montecito, California, 93108, US
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early, as parking is extremely limited and fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction due to the rocky and potentially slippery terrain.
- Bring plenty of water, as the hike can be strenuous, and there are no facilities for water refills.
- Download a trail map or GPS as the route can be poorly signposted in certain areas.
- Be mindful of poison oak and other potentially irritating plants along the trail.
Getting There
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Walking
From E Mountain Drive in Montecito, the trailhead is located on the right side of the road, marked by a Montecito Trails Foundation sign. Limited parking is available near the trailhead. An overflow lot is located on Riven Rock Lane if the main lot is full. Be prepared for a moderate 3-mile roundtrip hike to the hot springs.
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Public Transport
From Santa Barbara, take the Santa Barbara MTD Line 14 bus towards Montecito. Get off at the East Valley & San Ysidro stop. From there, it's approximately a 20-30 minute walk to the trailhead on E Mountain Drive. A single bus fare costs $1-$2. Check the MTD website for the most up-to-date schedules.
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Taxi/Ride-share
From downtown Santa Barbara, a taxi or ride-share to the Hot Springs Canyon Trailhead will cost approximately $20-$25 and take about 10-15 minutes. Note that prices may vary depending on demand and traffic conditions. Parking at the trailhead is limited, so consider this option to avoid parking hassles.
Discover more about Hot Springs Canyon Trailhead
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