Cold Spring Trailhead: Gateway to Montecito's Natural Beauty
Discover the natural beauty of Montecito at Cold Spring Trailhead, offering scenic hiking trails, seasonal waterfalls, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands.
The Cold Spring Trailhead, nestled in the foothills of Montecito, California, offers access to a network of scenic hiking trails that wind through the Santa Ynez Mountains. This popular trailhead provides a starting point for exploring the East Fork Cold Spring Trail, known for its lush canyons, seasonal waterfalls, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands. The area's rich history, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a favorite destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful escape from the city. Be prepared for a challenging climb and varying trail conditions, and remember to check for parking availability, especially on weekends. The Cold Spring Trailhead is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the natural splendor of the Santa Barbara region.
A brief summary to Cold Spring Trailhead
- 811 E Mountain Dr, Montecito, California, 93108, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking at the trailhead is limited and fills up quickly.
- Bring plenty of water, as the trail can be strenuous, and there are limited water sources along the way.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction, as the trail can be steep and rocky in places.
- Be aware of poison oak and ticks, and take appropriate precautions, such as wearing long pants and sleeves and using insect repellent.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
Getting There
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Driving
From Highway 101 in Montecito, exit at Hot Springs Road and head north. Follow Hot Springs Road until it intersects with Highway 192 (East Valley Road). Turn left onto Highway 192 and continue for approximately one mile to Cold Spring Road. Turn right onto Cold Spring Road and proceed north, passing Westmont College. Continue onto Mountain Drive and turn right. The trailhead will be on your right where the creek crosses the road. Parking is available along E Mountain Dr, but it fills up quickly. Be mindful of parking regulations and avoid blocking driveways or parking on the pavement. Consider carpooling or arriving early, especially on weekends.
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Public Transport
From the Santa Barbara Transit Center, take MTD Line 14 towards Montecito. Get off at the intersection of East Valley Road (Highway 192) and Cold Spring Road. From there, walk north on Cold Spring Road, passing Westmont College. Continue onto Mountain Drive and turn right. The trailhead will be on your right where the creek crosses the road. The walk from the bus stop to the trailhead is approximately 1.5 miles and will take around 30 minutes. A single ride on MTD costs $1.75.
Discover more about Cold Spring Trailhead
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