Gaviota Peak Sunday Morning Hike with Ella

Kick off the 2026 5 Peaks Challenge with Gaviota Peak!

The Santa Barbara County Trails Council has officially launched the 2026 5 Peaks Challenge! You have until May 1st to complete 5 of Santa Barbara's most iconic summits, and this hike is the perfect opportunity to get started! This peak offers an incredible view of the pristine Gaviota coastline and the Channel Islands, as it ventures along the Trespass and Tunnel View trails. We'll hike a 6.2-mile loop from the Gaviota Hot Springs/Gaviota Peak Trailhead.

Sign Up for the 5 Peaks Challenge Here: https://forms.gle/FFNKRjppjEpNFNR88

Details:
Distance ~6.2mi
Ascent - 2,178 ft
Difficulty - Moderate to strenuous
Restrictions - No dogs allowed at Gaviota State Park
GPX Track: [Gaviota [Peak.gpx](http://peak.gpx/)](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1G-e2sWSdfzou5H2AHvDQf8kjFMTwJ_nw/view?usp=share_link)
AllTrails Map: Gaviota Peak-AllTrails

Trailhead: Gaviota Peak Trailhead/Gaviota Hot Springs
Gaviota Peak Trailhead, Gaviota Park Boundary, Goleta, CA 93117
From Highway 101 N, take exit 132 for CA-1. Turn right toward Gaviota Park Boundary, then take another quick right onto Gaviota Park Boundary. Drive about 0.3 miles to the Gaviota Peak Trailhead. The State Park requires a $2 parking fee, so bring cash.

The group will meet at the Gaviota Peak Trailhead at 8:15 AM for a prompt start at 8:30 AM. Please be on time to respect everyone's schedule. Wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes, and bring comfortable clothes for varying temperatures. Given the trail difficulty, I recommend bringing at least 2-3L of water in a backpack so your hands are free for any scrambling or steep sections.

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.