What to Expect: Lake Los Carneros Ecological Preserve includes a lake, open fields, and a network of trails primarily used for walking, birding, jogging, photography, picnicking, biking, observing wildlife, and fishing. The trails meander across the park through rolling meadows and a forest of eucalyptus, oak, and pine trees. The park is a great place to stroll or watch wildlife and adjoins excellent family attractions like Stowe House, South Coast Railroad Museum, and taking rides on a model railroad.
Description: The Park is accessible year-round. This 140-acre park was once part of the original Rancho La Patera. The park features an artificial 25-acre lake, which attracts a wide variety of birdlife. The trails on the east side of the park are relatively flat. Take caution when walking on the west side of the park due to uneven surfaces and steep inclines
Trailhead: 320 N Los Carneros Rd, Goleta, CA 93117
Directions: From Santa Barbara, drive west on Hwy. 101, exit at Los Carneros Rd., and proceed north towards the mountains. Continue past the roundabout at Calle Real; you will find the parking lot on your right. Lake Los Carneros has numerous other entry points from nearby streets.
- Difficulty Rating: Easy to moderate
- Distance: 2.40 miles
- Grade Change: 5% -12%
- Trail Layout: Multiple loops
- Surface: Dirt and asphalt
- Average Width: 4 to 8 feet
- Shade: Limited
- Obstacles: Uneven terrain
- Accessibility: Not rated
- Restrictions: Dogs on leash
- 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.