Jesusita Trail

The Jesusita Trail in the Santa Ynez Mountains near Santa Barbara offers visitors a day hike in the California backcountry with scenic vistas and pleasant trail conditions. Hikers will feel like they are secluded from the bustle of the city without being very far away.

The Jesusita Trail was built in 1964 as part of a project by the State Division of Beaches and Parks. This area was historically home to the Chumash Indians, Franciscan padres, Mexican farmers, and soldiers led by John C. Fremont.

This trail climbs about 1200 feet in elevation (with some steep parts) to Inspiration Point. Round trip the trail measures 7 miles. Most of the trail is shaded by oak trees, and the destination offers a scenic view of Santa Barbara. Mountain bikers will also enjoy the many twists and turns of this trail. It includes a staircase, stream crossings, and few places for jumps.

The Jesusita Trail starts at the end of San Roque Road, where the Cater water treatment plant is located. Santa Barbara is located less than 100 miles northwest of LAX along the Pacific Coast. Visitors to the trail may also enjoy nearby El Presidio De Santa Barbara State Historic Park, Santa Barbara Historical Museum, Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, and the Santa Barbara Museum of Art.