Hike to Knapp's Castle
Added by Julie Cash
Length: 0.8 miles. Panoramic views of Santa Ynez Valley. Old ruins to explore. Close to wine country.
One of the many hidden gems near Santa Barbara, Knapp's Castle is an abandoned home built in 1916 by George Knapp. Finding the trailhead can be difficult because it's not clearly marked and the road it's starts from is long, winding and narrow. Coming from the 154, turn right on East Camino Cielo and drive three miles east to a small pullout on the right hand side of the road. Across from the pull out is a gated dirt road on the left where you'll find the start of the trail.
Once on the trail it is a very short walk to the ruin of Knapp's castle which includes stone walls and stairs, arches, and fireplaces. One portion is set up to look like an amphitheater and is the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic, a bottle of wine or just to sit and watch the sunset.
The upper portion of the ruins contain the best views, with the focal point being the arched windows where you can see the Santa Ynez River Canyon, Lake Cachuma, and the San Rafael Mountains. Don't miss out on the lower portion though, to the left there is a small stairway that will lead down to a beautiful tree which has a rope swing tied to it. It's hard to beat swinging on a rope in the mountains while you watch the sunset.
There is good food and live music to be had relatively close after you return to the 154 at Paradise Store & Grill. If you are into wine tasting, Los Olivos is not too far from here. My favorite vineyard is Koehler off of Foxen Canyon. Dan will set you up with a tasting and chances are you will want to buy a case. Stop buy and grab some wine to take to Knapp's and enjoy the view.
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Join the communityReviews
Rate this AdventureBest Experience Ever
My boyfriend and I first told each other we loved each other at this beautiful, romantic spot. Highly recommend. Bring a blanket to sit on and glasses of wine. Sunset was astonishing. Only a five minute walk from the road.
5.0
Not a Hike
It's not really a hike, the walk is extremely short. The views are spectacular. Worth the visit if you're in the area
5.0
Easy Access to Panoramic Views
Just a short walk and you're treated to wonderful views of mountain wilderness, Cachuma lake and even the Pacific Ocean on a clear day.
5.0
Amazing Ruins!
Just recently ventured here with a group of friends and we were astounded by how incredible these ruins are and the amazing views of the Santa Ynez mountains. Easy parking and a short walk to an amazing destination. Knapp's Castle ruins are ideal for photographs and climbing and, even though the area is privately owned, it's open to the public. Definitely a hidden gem in Southern California!
5.0
Beautiful Location
I remember going to this little castle when I was younger and I would always stand on the top of the arches and watch the orange glow of the valley slowly calm down into a deep blue. Highly recommend this location for anyone who wants to watch a beautiful scene or to have a nice picnic on the arches.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
Stay Nearby
Snyder Trail
Sage Hill
Santa Barbara, California
Los Prietos
Santa Barbara, California
Paradise Campground
Santa Barbara, California
Fremont Campground
Nearby Adventures
Hike La Cumbre Peak via Tunnel Trail
Hike to Inspiration Point in Rattlesnake Canyon
Paraglide at Elings Park
Hike the Saddle Rock Loop
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