What to Expect: This trail starts in the parking lot at Carpinteria Avenue and Bailard Avenue intersection. Views of the ocean, mountains, and wildlife are available.
Description: Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve is an open space park saved from development by concerned citizens in the late 1990s. Sandwiched between Hwy 101 and the ocean, the ease of access and proximity to the coast make the bluffs a popular place to walk. In addition, there are views north to the Santa Ynez Mountains and south to the Channel Islands from hiking trails that cut through and wrap around the preserve. Restroom facilities are available at the Viola Fields sports complex on-site at the Preserve.
Trailhead: 6145 Carpinteria Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013
Directions: From Hwy 101, take exit 85 for Bailard Avenue in Carpinteria, CA. At the end of the off-ramp, turn toward the ocean on Bailard Avenue. Drive straight across an intersection with Carpinteria Avenue into a dirt parking area. 1000-feet east of the main parking lot is additional parking. Many people access the trail by foot, bicycle or bus service.
- Difficulty Rating: Easy
- Distance: 1.50 miles outer loop
- Grade Change: Less than 5%
- Trail Layout: Loop
- Surface: Packed earth
- Average Width: 6 to 10 feet
- Shade: Very little
- Obstacles: Uneven terrain
- Accessibility: Not rated
- Restrictions: Dogs Allowed
- Emergency: Call 911
Special thanks to Wildling Museum of Art and Nature for creating Art from the Trails, a juried invitational exhibition, showcasing trail systems in Santa Barbara County. The exhibit is ongoing through October 3, 2021.