Goleta, California
The best Trails and Outdoor Activities in Goleta, California offer a variety of scenic and engaging options. One of the top must-visit trails is the Gaviota Peak Trail. This 6.5-mile round trip trail is rated as moderate in difficulty and features a hot spring and panoramic views from the summit. Another popular trail is the Ellwood Bluffs Trail, known for its stunning ocean views and access to a butterfly preserve. For those interested in bird watching and picnicking, the Lake Los Carneros Park is a great choice. The park features a large lake, walking paths, and a historic train depot. Nearby, the Goleta Beach Park offers sandy beaches, fishing pier, and barbecue grills. These outdoor adventures provide a unique and fun way to explore Goleta and its natural beauty.
Top Spots in and near Goleta
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Santa Maria, California
Trail Run, Hike, or Mountain Bike Los Flores Ranch Park
5 mi / 700 ft gainI'm a sucker for a good ridgeline trail, and Los Flores Ranch Park has lots of them. For a solid 5ish mile loop with about 600 ft of elevation gain, take the Manzanita Trail to the Ridge Top Trail for sweeping views of the valley, vineyards, and out to the ocean on a clear day. The Solomon Trail ...Read more -
Santa Maria, California
Cycle the Palmer and Cat Canyon Roads in Santa Maria Valley
30 miYou can't go wrong with cycling around the Santa Maria Valley area. There is an abundance of interesting roads to ride along with scenic hills meandering through wineries. I started my ride at the Los Flores Ranch Park parking lot and headed east along Dominion. Take a right on Palmer and follow...Read more -
Santa Paula, California
Santa Paula Punch Bowls
3.66.5 mi / 1037 ft gainThis is a 6.5 mile trail, out and back. Parking is available along Ojai St, and the trail starts at the entrance of Thomas Aquinas College. Follow the paved road that goes around the school, until you reach a fork on the road, then stay right. The trail will take you through Ferndale Ranch, just ...Read more -
Orcutt, California
Hike or Trail Run the Rice Ranch Trail
4.03.2 mi / 400 ft gainHike, mountain bike, or trail run the Rice Ranch Trail in Orcutt, CA. This park is relatively small, but a great place for a hike or run. I did a 3 mile loop and could easily have added on a couple more miles. Hike up to water towers at the top and enjoy views overlooking Santa Maria Valley and o...Read more -
Frazier Park, California
Hike to Conder Observatory (Mt. Piños) from the Nordic Ski Hut
3.32 mi / 457 ft gainAny drive up the I-405N or I-5N is going to result in some pain: Either you leave early enough to avoid traffic, or you are sitting in some slowness for a while. But once you turn onto Frazier Mountain Road from the interstate, you are in a completely different world. It could be 85° in Los Angel...Read more -
Malibu, California
Hike Point Mugu Peak
4.52 mi / 1250 ft gainPoint Mugu State Park offers some amazing rolling mountains, sweeping meadows of tall grass, and beautiful coastal views. I suggest going in the spring. I recently went, and the wildflowers were blooming everywhere. There are campgrounds available in different parts of the park that you can make ...Read more -
Malibu, California
Hike Mugu Peak Loop via Chumash Trail
5.06.5 mi / 1255 ft gainFrom the parking lot at the trailhead, follow the steep trail going up the mountain. This part is quite challenging, so I recommend stretching out your legs before starting the hike. Once you reach the top, you will see your first junction. Go right if you want to go straight for the peak, and th...Read more
