Hiking in SB: Anywhere Else Other Than Beaches

By Lance Hwang

10 pounds in 3 months! This isn’t how much weight she lost in a diet program. Actually it’s what a Korean student, who will remain nameless, gained after moving to the U.S. Since we eat a lot of fattening food in this country, exercise is necessary to keep fit. In Santa Barbara, people go to the beach for walking, jogging or playing other sea sports. It is wonderful that this city adjoins the Pacific Ocean.

On the other hand, we need to remember that the other side of this area is surrounded by beautiful mountains, and there are lots of hiking trails such as Arroyo Burro Trail, Cold Spring Trail, Buena Vista Trail or McMenemy Trail. Inspiration Point and Jesusita Trail would be enjoyable for us because it is easy to get to and has various courses. Imagine that you are looking down on the whole city! The shiny ocean waves over the city, and beautiful houses and gardens will be in your field of view.

Inspiration Point and Jesusita Trail
There are two typical ways to get to Inspiration Point. The first one is the trail that starts at the end of Tunnel Road, and the other one is Jesusita Trail that starts near Steven’s Park. Since the ends of these two trails meet at Inspiration Point, you can plan a round-trip that crosses the Point.

Although the two trails reach the same place, the trail that starts at Tunnel Road is much shorter than Jesusita Trail, and, on the way to the Point, it has a lot of view points such as “7 Falls” and “3 Pools.” In addition, this trail is linked to Tunnel Trail. If you are interested in Inspiration Point, this trail is definitely better than Jesusita. According to santabarbarahikes.com, this hike is about 3.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 800 ft.

Jesusita Trail is more exciting if you want to enjoy hiking itself. But it can be little challenging if you are not familiar with mountain hiking. Besides, you should read a map of this trail well before starting hiking through this trail, because this trail is connected to several private roads and ranches. You can be confused at the junctions if you don’t have enough information. Additionally, you need to know that there is some poison oak near the trail. According to santabarbarahikes.com, the hike is a 7-mile-round trip with an aproximate 1200-foot elevation gain.

Inspiration Point and Jesusita Trail are appropriate places for hiking because of their accessibility and the beautiful scenery. However, the point is not where you go, but how much you enjoy it. While taking pleasure in hiking, your body will naturally be healthier.

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