Explore Montecito Hot Springs in Santa Barbara

Beautiful hike with rewarding views and a hot bath in the end!

Last updated: Jan 2024

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Description

Hot Springs Canyon Trail in Santa Barbara is a unique natural destination for hot springs. There are other springs nearby, however, Hot Springs Canyon Trail is the best one! This moderate 4-mile hike delivers stunning views, lots of beautiful nature and enough shade to cool you down on the way. There are multiple hot springs pools with the warmest water on the top. These springs are natural and sulfurous, so be prepared for the "aroma"! However, sulfur is actually good for you and your body!

Perfect for

For solo

For two

Outdoorsy

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Itinerary

Park your car on the dirt lot. Limited parking (don't park on the street)
Find trailhead and start hiking
The first and second forks stay to your left
Third fork stay to your right
Take left at the 4th fork in the trail. You’ll cross a small riverbed and then just a bit after this the hot springs will be off to your left.
Chill and soak
Head back before dark

Location

1217 E Mountain Dr, Montecito, CA 93108

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Packing List

water bottle
sunscreen
hat
hiking shoes
layers
snacks, drinks, trash bag (pack in, pack out)
towel (optional if going in)
rubber shoes (optional if going in)

4.5 ● Google reviews

Amazing hike and so much to explore. Went on a Sunday at 9am thinking we made it early and boy howdy did we not. Parking was a bear but we made it work. Lots of people heading up. About 40-50 in total when we got to the pools. Everyone was very kind though and we shared space equally. I was surprised at how many kids are on the trail. I would recommend super early AM for a sunrise view or late in the PM for sunset. Anytime between 9-5 will be packed on the weekends. I would still recommend this hike to anyone. Easy uphill hike with 650 foot total elevation increase. A few rocky vertical sections but saw several older folks trek with ease.

Very pleasant walk although it was rainning mildely. I took two Kids of 8 and 10, they had so much fun. The trail is barely signaled. But is not impossible to find The way. Took a picture right next to the place most people get The wrong track. Follow The arrow drawn in the rock.

We loved the hot springs even though it was a bit confusing getting there. Pleasant hike and views. Parking is very limited. Definitely recommend if you’re in the area.

We went there on a foggy day. The trail was muddy but not slippery. When we got to the hot springs, we got lucky to get a pool (they were all taken since it was during the weekend). The water was really warm. However, some of the people living in the area want a portion of the trail to be shut down. I hope it stays open because it's really is a beautiful trail with waterfalls and streams on the way. Keep in mind that this trail is in a residential area in Montecito, and if you go there during the weekend, street parking is scarce.

Cute hike. Elevated the whole way until you reach the top, pools are lovely. Directions can be tricky if it’s your first time. Therefore, head for the ruins directly; when you reach the ‘J’ that is graffitied on the rock, immediately make a left and cross the river into the trail; otherwise you will miss the hot springs! Best of luck - enjoy!

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FAQs

How to get there?

At the first fork in the trail stay to your left. At the second fork, stay left again. At the third fork, stay to your right. After you pass the hotel ruins (you’ll see a sign about water conservation and begin to smell sulphur), take left at the 4th fork in the trail. You’ll cross a small riverbed and then just a bit after this the hot springs will be off to your left.

How is parking?

Some limited street parking is available at the trailhead. Do not park on the street, you might be towed or fined.

is sulfuric hot spring good for you?

Hot springs are a rich source of sulfur and its healing benefits include treating skin irritations and infections such as rashes and eczema. Sulfur-rich hot springs are also thought to help treat dry scalp, arthritic pain and internal problems such as menopausal symptoms and digestive disorders.