Rattlesnake Canyon - Hiking

Review

Intro

To find the Rattlesnake Canyon trail, head a little over a mile up Las Canoas Road off of Mission Canyon Road. The trail is an out and back that ends at Gibraltar Rd after a little over 1,300 feet of climbing. You can either take the trail back or you can take the road. This trail is really well-maintained; it's also shaded and very popular. 

From many points along the route, you have views of the Channel Islands, Montecito and Santa Barbara skyline.

What Makes It Great

It's a short, steep climb with a lot of vegetation along the way. For those who love to examine the details of nature, from gently flowing streams to intricate wildflowers, there's plenty to see... especially if you need to catch your breath. The shady cover is home to many birds as well, so birders will be keen to check out this trail. 

Who is Going to Love It

Hikers looking for a good workout on a well-maintained trail will enjoy Rattlesnake Canyon. It's a good hike for a half-day adventure. 

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

Directions from Santa Barbara Hikes:

From the Mission, corner of Laguna and Los Olivos Street in Santa Barbara...

Head up Los Olivos toward the mountains. The road makes a jag and becomes Mission Canyon Rd.

At the stop sign, turn right on Foothill Rd.

At the stop sign and fire station, turn left onto Mission Canyon Rd.

At the fork in the road, stay right on Mission Canyon. Don't take Tunnel.

Make a sharp right turn on Las Canoas.

Follow Las Canoas to Skofield Park. Just before the park there is parking.

The Trailhead is at the stone bridge adjacent to the park