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Inspiration Point

Santa Barbara, California

4.0/5
based on 2 reviews

Details

Distance

3.82 miles

Elevation Gain

1109 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by The Outbound Collective

The hike to Inspiration Point will take you to a scenic viewpoint overlooking Santa Barbara and the Pacific Ocean.

Hike up the 3.5 mile trail to an unbeatable vista that will leave you smiling! This hike has a steady uphill climb from the trailhead off of Tunnel Rd into Los Padres National Forest. Keep in mind this trail can get pretty crowded on weekends, so you're best to be at the trail early in the morning or toward the end of the day (don't forget your headlamp!). Keep in mind there isn't much shade on the trail, so bring a hat and your sunscreen. 

This trail is dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on-leash. 

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Features

Fitness
Photography
Mountain Biking
Running
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Romantic
Scenic
Wildlife

Inspiration Point Reviews

Inspiration Point can be accessed either from the Jesusita Trail (starting in San Roque Canyon) or from the Tunnel Trail (starting in Mission Canyon). Rattlesnake Canyon is to the east of Mission Canyon. It is a nice hike as well, but NOT the way to get to Inspiration Point (unless you hike Rattlesnake--named after the shape of the canyon, btw, not the reptile--go all the way to the meadow, hike the Rattlesnake/Tunnel Connector, turn down the Tunnel Trail, and take the Inspiration Point/Seven Falls Jesusita connector). The actual hike to Inspiration Point is ok-ish. It is heavily traveled and a good workout, but can be very crowded, the fires have eliminated most shade, and there can be poison oak. The view is beautiful. Closed on Red Flag days. If you access it from the Tunnel Trail, pay very close attention to the parking signs and park off the pavement.

This trail is a bit of work to get up with 800 feet of elevation gain, but that's what makes the view at the top that much better! Get panoramic views of Santa Barbara and the Pacific Ocean. Make sure to bring plenty of water and a snack to enjoy at the lookout.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

La Cumbre Peak via Tunnel Trail

Cold Spring Trail Loop

Tangerine Falls

West Fork of Cold Spring Trail

Saddle Rock Loop

Paraglide at Elings Park