Gaviota Peak Saturday Morning Hike with Riley

The Santa Barbara County Trails Council has officially launched the 5 Peaks Challenge for 2025, and this hike is the perfect opportunity to check another peak off your list. Rising over the largely undeveloped Gaviota coastline, Gaviota Peak offers some of the best views in Santa Barbara County. The route will take us along the Trespass and Tunnel View trails, rewarding us with incredible views of the ocean, mountains, canyons, and Channel Islands. We’ll hike a 6.2-mile loop from the Gaviota Hot Springs/Gaviota Peak Trailhead.

Sign Up for the 5 Peaks Challenge Here: https://bit.ly/5PeaksChallenge

Details:
Distance ~ 6.2mi
Ascent – 2,178 ft
Difficulty – Moderate to strenuous
Restrictions – No dogs allowed at Gaviota State Park

GPX Track: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1G-e2sWSdfzou5H2AHvDQf8kjFMTwJ_nw/view?usp=share_link
AllTrails Map: Gaviota Peak-AllTrails

Trailhead: Gaviota Peak Trailhead/Gaviota Hot Springs
Gaviota Peak Trailhead, Gaviota Park Boundary, Goleta, CA 93117
From Highway 101 N, take exit 132 for CA-1. Turn right toward Gaviota Park Boundary, then take another quick right onto Gaviota Park Boundary. Drive about 0.3 miles to the Gaviota Peak Trailhead. The State Park requires a $2 parking fee, so bring cash.

The group will meet at the Gaviota Peak Trailhead at 9:15 AM for a prompt start at 9:30 AM. Please be on time to respect everyone’s schedule. Wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes, and bring comfortable clothes for varying temperatures. Given the trail difficulty, I recommend bringing at least 2-3L of water in a backpack so your hands are free for any scrambling or steep sections.

Note: Rain or low attendance cancels the hike.

Group organizers assume no liability; hike at your own risk. By participating in this hike, you agree to assume all risks and liability related to or resulting from this activity. Neither the group’s leaders nor any third party will be held liable for any injury, loss, or damage. Participation is based on an “at will” basis.