01
Best overall pick
Tunnel Trail to Inspiration Point
Upper Mission Canyon • Classic Canyon-To-Ridge Day Hike • Go-To First Hike In The Area
A steady climb from shady canyon to a broad vista with one of the best overlooks in town.
Starting at the end of Tunnel Road, this route eases you from oaks and boulders into open chaparral with views that expand the higher you go. The grade is consistent but never technical, making it approachable for reasonably fit hikers. Go early on weekends, as this is a local favorite and parking fills quickly.
02
Waterfall favorite
Seven Falls via Mission Canyon
Mission Canyon Creek Corridor • Rock-Hopping Creek And Waterfall Route • Best For Spring Exploring
A short but adventurous outing that follows the creek to a series of pools and small falls tucked into the canyon.
Branching off the main Tunnel Trail corridor, the route to Seven Falls trades sweeping views for close-up canyon scenery. Expect some rock-hopping, light scrambling, and route-finding along the creek, especially when flows are low. It’s at its best after winter rains, when the pools are refreshed and the canyon feels lush.
03
Shadiest canyon walk
Rattlesnake Canyon Trail
Adjacent Rattlesnake Canyon • Oak-Shaded Creekside Trail • Best For Mellow Half-Day Outing
A gently climbing path that winds along a live creek, with plenty of shade and wildflowers in season.
Just over the ridge from Mission Canyon, Rattlesnake offers a softer, greener feel than many nearby routes. The singletrack meanders beside the creek before opening onto meadowy viewpoints, giving you options to turn around whenever you’ve had your fill. It’s a good pick for warmer days or mixed-ability groups who still want a real trail experience.
04
Best in-town workout
Jesusita Trail to Inspiration Point
Foothills Above Santa Barbara • Switchbacking Chaparral Climb • Best Pre- Or Post-Work Hike
A closer-to-town route to Inspiration Point with a solid workout and classic coastal views.
Accessed from residential streets on the north side of town, the Jesusita Trail feels surprisingly wild once you leave the lower creek section. The path climbs through chaparral, switching between shaded stretches and open slopes, before meeting the same overlook shared with Tunnel Trail. Locals use it as a reliable fitness hike with a big-view payoff at the top.
05
Big mountain challenge
Arlington and Cathedral Peaks via Tunnel Trail
Ridges Above Mission Canyon • Steep, Boulder-Studded Summit Route • Best For Experienced Hikers
A demanding ridge scramble to rugged summits with commanding views over Mission Canyon and the coast.
Starting from the Tunnel corridor, this route leaves the main trail and heads sharply upward on a rough, sometimes exposed path. You’ll pull through sandstone boulders and along narrow sections of ridge, gaining altitude quickly and continuously. It’s a standout objective for strong hikers who are comfortable with hands-on sections and want the most dramatic terrain above Mission Canyon.