The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Santa Barbara County

The Montañon Ridge Loop offers a truly immersive hiking experience on Santa Cruz Island, transitioning from stunning coastal views near Scorpion Anchorage to rugged inland ridges. You'll traverse rocky terrain, encounter steep climbs, and be rewarded with unparalleled 360-degree vistas from Montañon Ridge, overlooking Potato Harbor and Anacapa Island. This moderate 8.8-mile (14.2 km) hike, with 1578 feet (481 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes, making it a substantial day out for those seeking a challenge. The path can be unmaintained in sections, requiring careful footing.

To make the most of your visit, plan to access the trail from Scorpion Anchorage. Hiking the loop clockwise is often recommended, as it eases the initial uphill sections, which can be quite steep. Given the trail's demanding nature, good cardio is essential, and carrying ample water is a must. Always check the Channel Islands National Park website for ferry schedules and any specific island regulations before you go.

What truly sets this route apart are its unique geological features, including striking red sandstone and volcanic rock, alongside the chance to spot endemic flora like Santa Cruz Island buckwheat and the rare island scrub jay. Once an unmaintained "social trail," it was officially named the Montañon Ridge Loop Trail in 2018, solidifying its status as a premier route for experiencing the wild beauty of Channel Islands National Park.

The Montañon Ridge Loop Trail on Santa Cruz Island is a challenging and rewarding hike that offers some of the most expansive views in Channel Islands National Park. You'll traverse steep, rocky terrain, with significant elevation changes that demand good cardio, but the payoff is worth it. From the ridge, you can see both sides of Santa Cruz Island, the mainland, and neighboring Anacapa Island, with coastal cliffs and canyons unfolding below you.

This difficult 12.8-mile (20.6 km) loop involves 2351 feet (716 metres) of climbing and typically takes about 6 hours and 17 minutes. Parts of the trail, particularly from Potato Harbor Overlook to Montañon Ridge, are unmaintained, so bring a topographic map and be ready for rugged conditions. It's best suited for experienced hikers looking for a full-day adventure; plan your visit during cooler seasons to avoid the heat.

Beyond the stunning Montañon Ridge Loop Trail viewpoints, keep an eye out for unique wildlife like the endemic island scrub jay and curious island foxes. The trail itself may follow old sheep paths, and you might even spot a historical oil well that yielded water instead of oil. This route offers a deep dive into the island's natural beauty and history, making it a memorable experience for those up to the task.

The Montañon Ridge Loop Trail on Santa Cruz Island is a demanding 10.6-mile (17.1 km) hike that immerses you in a rugged, windswept landscape, offering expansive views that stretch across the Channel Islands. You'll gain 2381 feet (726 metres) over roughly 5 hours and 52 minutes, navigating rocky paths and old road cuts. From the ridge, you can spot landmarks like Anacapa Island and Smugglers Cove, with the terrain transitioning from Monterey shale to volcanic rock.

Planning for this difficult route requires careful consideration. The trail is mostly exposed, so an early start is crucial to beat the heat, and you must carry ample water. Access to Santa Cruz Island is by ferry, typically from Ventura, landing at Scorpion Anchorage, which is your trailhead. Be mindful of steep drops along certain sections of the trail.

This loop trail offers a unique glimpse into Santa Cruz Island's past, with sections that were once old sheep trails. You might even stumble upon an abandoned oil well, a relic from exploratory drilling. The island's diverse wildlife includes various birds and the endemic island fox, and notably, there are no rattlesnakes here, making for a different kind of wilderness experience.

The Santa Barbara Stearns Wharf route offers a quintessential California coastal walk, not a strenuous hike. This easy 0.8-mile (1.2 km) stroll, with virtually no elevation gain over its 18-minute duration, takes you along paved paths and boardwalks right on the water. You'll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the Santa Barbara coastline, the bustling harbor, and the distant Santa Ynez Mountains, all framed by swaying palm trees.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the wharf is a central hub with amenities like public restrooms and diverse dining options. While specific parking information isn't detailed, the area is designed for easy access. For those seeking the most picturesque moments, aim for a sunrise or sunset walk to capture the golden light over the Pacific.

Stearns Wharf holds a special place in history as California's oldest working wooden wharf, originally built in 1872. Beyond its historical significance, it's a vibrant spot where you can spot marine life, explore unique shops, or visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center. It's a perfect family-friendly option or a gentle introduction to the broader Santa Barbara Waterfront Trail.