4 breathtaking MONTECITO HIKES TO DO THIS SUMMER
Santa Barbara is home to many amazing hiking trails, perfect for the avid outdoor enthusiast. Although Montecito may have a small-town atmosphere, it boasts a wide variety of hiking trails from easy to strenuous, perfect for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and trail running! Many of our listings are steps away from the most pristine hiking trails, which create a relaxing, serene escape into nature with beautiful scenery of the Santa Ynez mountains and sweeping panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Looking to escape the beach? Check out these 4 beautiful hikes located in Montecito.
#1 San Ysidro Trail
This a beautiful and relatively easy 4-mile round trip hike. The trail is shaded by trees, providing retrieve on warm days. A large waterfall greets you after 2 miles in. The waterfall can be quite impressive after a strong rain, and very tranquil in the drier months.
Our listings in close proximity to the San Ysidro Trail:
764 San Ysidro Lane
Escape to an enchanting East Coast country estate on 2.38 magical acres in the heart of ultra-charming Montecito. Romantic details and character define the exceptional compound, offering an additional charming guest house, pool cabana and separate gym/office. An exquisite landscape of blossoming rose gardens, majestic oaks and redwoods, and tasteful entertaining terraces surround Brookside and offer hiking trails just steps away. After hitting the trails you can relax by the large swimmer's pool, lounge patio, and grand outdoor fireplace while admiring the staggering mountain views.
871 Oak Grove Drive
A French-inspired stone farmhouse in Montecito’s Golden Quadrangle pairs the light and romance of Provence with layered gardens and an advanced smart home automation system. Interior rooms mingle effortlessly while mature oaks and mountain views highlight beautiful outdoor spaces. Expansive finished attic space provides endless possibilities. This peaceful and pristine home is a treasure. In the backyard, an outdoor kitchen and shower allow for incredible outdoor living with a spa made of Santa Barbara stone.
#2 McMenemy Trail
McMenemy Trail is 1.2 miles and leads across San Ysidro Creek through a stunning eucalyptus forest. A well maintained the trail, suitable for horses with multiple hitching posts along the way. A bench at the top allows for a nice place to take in the breathtaking ocean views.
Our listings in close proximity to the McMenemy Trail:
900 Hot Springs Road
Fall in love with the endless ocean and mountain views of romantic Prima Luce, Italian for “first light.” In the finest Montecito location, Prima Luce enjoys unparalleled privacy and a most tranquil setting with many hiking trails just feet out the door. This estate is also in close proximity to the renowned amenities of affluent Montecito. Impeccably designed to maximize views and privacy, and built to the highest standards, Prima Luce’s stunning architecture is adorned with hand painted details, paneled walls and the finest finishes. Surrounded by the estate’s 2+ acres of alluring gardens and oak woodland, an inviting guesthouse, fireside pool cabana and wonderful children’s play house complete this most idyllic ocean view retreat.
818 Hot Springs Road
Nestled at the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains, with many local hiking trails, one of the area’s most luxurious and romantic estates embodies authentic French spirit, while breathtaking Pacific Ocean and Channel Island views capture the essence of California coastal living. Designed by noted architect Lutah Maria Riggs, the expansive main residence is reminiscent of an 18th century French country manor with charming shutters, a slate roof and an alluring stone and blush stucco façade. Extensively remodeled in 2006, the home meets every modern standard while maintaining the exceptional architectural pedigree. Only the natural beauty of the surrounding ocean and mountain panoramas match the impressive architectural provenance and enchanting landscape of this truly captivating Montecito estate with beautiful gardens by famous landscape architect Lockwood de Forest.
#3 Ennisbrook Trail
Stroll through an oak woodland and enjoy this mostly flat trail. Approximately a 1.8-mile loop with 150 feet of elevation change within the 44-acre San Ysidro Creek Preserve. The trail follows along San Ysidro Creek and the old stone bridges that span the creekside. A perfect trail to enjoy on a warm day shaded by oak trees with loved ones!
Our listings in close proximity to the Ennisbrook Trail:
308 Ennisbrook, Rancho San Leandro
Set gracefully overlooking the ocean and in the shadow of the Santa Ynez Mountains, Rancho San Leandro reigns over Montecito as it has for nearly 170 yrs. The compound, an Adobe (circa 1850), the 2006 Monterey House and a first class equestrian facility, boasts ocean and mountain views, historical significance, and modern amenities on nearly 6 acres. The grounds of Rancho San Leandro are laced with lush gardens, botanical vignettes, and drought tolerant succulents; enjoy an afternoon relaxing on the covered veranda; romantic courtyards beckon late night star gazing; stone pathways meander throughout the property and lead you to discover moments from the estate’s history. Rancho San Leandro is the perfect equestrian estate with local trails nearby for both horseback riding and hiking.
#4 Toro Canyon Trail
This is a short 1-mile path situated in Toro Canyon Park. The trail is short and not too steep, leading to a gazebo that circles a knoll. The top is the perfect place to catch a stunning Santa Barbara sunset.
Our listing in close proximity to the Toro Canyon Trail:
705 Toro Canyon Road
Sweeping ocean views are on full display from this modern home designed by Barton Meyers on 10.4 acres in a pastoral location in the Montecito foothills. A sleek balance of steel, glass, and concrete, this remarkable modern home showcasing endless ocean views explores the boundaries of progressive architecture and living in nature. The house boasts three dramatic glass “garage doors” that when raised blur indoor spaces and the outside environment to create a chic, integrated living experience. This house is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, with an abundance of hiking trails in close proximity, a beautiful salt-water pool, an outdoor fireplace and terrace with walking paths, an olive grove, and Lockwood de Forest gardens.