What we’re about
Welcome to Santa Barbara County Hikers!
We all benefit from free access to the extensive network of trails throughout our coastal mountains, along the Gaviota coastline, in the Santa Ynez Valley, and across the spectacular Santa Barbara backcountry. The County’s trail system is a community resource at its best when it is maintained and regularly put to use.
Although we do not charge to join our Meetup group, each hike we take reminds us that the community resource we love is also a community responsibility. There are many ways to fulfill that obligation. One way is to join the Santa Barbara County Trails Council: [http://sbtrails.org/join/](http://sbtrails.org/join/). Another is to volunteer for trail projects: [http://sbvoluneers.org](https://www.meetup.com/Santa-Barbara-Trail-Volunteers/).
Your membership supports our recreational hiking program, trail maintenance program, and the planning and construction of new trails in Santa Barbara County for all users. In addition, you will receive a local hiking trail map pack as a new member.
Thanks for joining Santa Barbara County Hikers, and now join us for a hike for fun, fitness, and the incredible beauty surrounding us!
Happy trails,
Mark Wilkinson
Executive Director
Santa Barbara County Trails Council
[http://sbtrails.org/links](http://sbtrails.org/links)
PS. Special thanks to Curt Cragg for founding Santa Barbara County Hikers over a decade ago.
Upcoming events (1)
See all- Wednesday Morning Hike with RileyRattlesnake Canyon Trailhead, Santa Barbara, CA
Join me for a Healthy People, Healthy Trails Hike to Flores Peak
We'll start our journey at Rattlesnake Canyon and make our way up to the Meadow, where we'll turn right and head up to Gibraltar Road. The hike to the road is a bit of a challenge, with an average grade of 13%, including some steeper sections hitting over 20%. Once we reach Gibraltar Road, we'll take a left and hike about a third of a mile to the Gibraltar Rock outcropping. This is where the real adventure begins including a steep half-mile scramble with 700 feet of elevation gain to the top of Flores Peak. At the top, we'll find a stunning rock garden with plenty of picturesque spots to enjoy the view of Santa Barbara below. We'll take a break to snack and soak in the scenery before heading back down the same way we came.Details:
Distance - 6.0mi
Ascent - 2330ft
Water crossings - EASY
Rock scrambling - SOME
Bush whacking - SOME
Maximum Grade - >30%!
Map: Flores Peak Hiking MapTrailhead: Rattlesnake Trailhead on Las Canoas Rd
1899, 1783 Las Canoas Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Directions from Santa Barbara, take Foothill Road (Highway 192) and turn north on Mission Canyon Road towards the Santa Barbara Botanical Gardens. Turn right on Las Canoas. Continue for 1 to 1½ miles and park near a narrow bridge just before Skofield Park. Look for the trailhead sign at the creek near the park.The group will meet at the Rattlesnake Canyon Trailhead at 7:45 AM to ensure a prompt start. Please be punctual to respect everyone's time. Please dress appropriately with hiking boots/shoes and comfortable clothes meant to get sweaty and possibly wet. We recommend 2-3L water in a backpack depending upon trail difficulty so that your hands are free to cross water or scramble up/down rocks.
Note: Rain or low attendance cancels the hike.
Group organizers assume no liability; hike at your own risk. By participating in this hike, you agree to assume all risks and liability related to or resulting from this activity. Neither the group's leaders nor any third party will be held liable for any injury, loss, or damage. Participation is based on an "at will" basis.
