Santa Barbara 5 Peaks: Arlington, Cathedral, LaCumbre, White, Flores
Details
Dragon's Back Ridge, Arlington Peak, Cathedral Peak, La Cumbre Peak, White Mountain/ Rock Garden and Flores Peak, these are some of the most scenic and beautiful areas in Santa Barbara, or anywhere else. We would do this hike at a fun and safe pace, taking time to marvel at the beautiful scenery and views. Join me if you appreciate beautiful nature, enjoy a challenging hiking adventure, and are pleasant to socialize with.
If you could pull this hike off, it would be quite an accomplishment. Arlington Peak by itself is rated as hard by Alltrails. 3 Peaks Loop (Arlington, Cathedral & La Cumbre) is rated as strenuous. 5 Peaks is even more strenuous. Last year I did 5 Peaks twice, both times ascended from Dragon's Back Ridge. For this hike, I am taking the group to do the opposite direction, taking Tunnel Trail, then connect to Rattlesnake Canyon Trail, Gibraltar Rd, Flores Peak, Rock Garden Trail, White Mountain/ Rock Garden, Rocky Pine Ridge Trail, E Camino Cielo, La Cumbre Peak, then descend Cathedral Peak Trail, Cathedral Peak, Arlington Peak, down Dragon's Back. It is very likely we could descend from the mountain after sunset, therefore, reliable headlamp & layered clothing is necessary.
This hike is also set up to coincide with Santa Barbara Trails Council's 5 Peaks Challenge. More information:
https://santabarbaratrails.org/program/peak-bagging/
Previous 5 Peak 8 Trail documentary video from March 2025:
https://youtu.be/L7_AhjeU87g?si=Jr-o-syeekOWYTUI
Mindset: adventurous yet very safety conscious, self responsible & self accountable, self reflective, intellectually curious, independent thinking, open-minded worldview
Personality & Character: authentic yet respectful, sincere, down to earth, cheerful, pleasant to chat with, effective in communicating, intelligent, competent
Physical & Mental: healthy & fit for strenuous hiking & boulder climbing, mentally & emotionally sound
Ability: assess & manage risks effectively, carry on meaningful conversations
Experience & Skill: rocky terrain hiking, scrambling, bush whacking
Distance & Climb: 14 mile, 5000’ Strenuous Workout in Beautiful Nature
Supply & Equipment: adequate proper hydration & nourishment, reliable headlamp with sufficient runtime, windbreaker in case of cold & night survival, navigation apps, basic first aid kit
Trailhead: Inspiration Point Trailhead
Liability Waiver
By RSVPing and participating in this event, you acknowledge that outdoor adventures carry risks (injury, illness, accidents, etc.) and agree that you are solely responsible for your own safety, health, well being, and belongings. The organizer(s) and co-hosts are not liable for any loss, damage, or injury. By joining, you agree to the full terms and conditions.
