Romero Canyon Out-and-Back

Dogs Off-leash

Features River/Creek · Swimming · Views

Romero singletrack is all that is left of the famous Romero loop since major storms in 2023 caused landslides. This trail winds up from Montecito along a creek, finishing at a high point at the crest of the Santa Ynez Mountains, where views of the ocean and islands abound.

There is a parking lot at the bottom of this route, and no fees are required. Backpackers can use this route to access trails in the backcountry.

This trail is now the only option for this hike, as the catway washed out in major storms in 2023. The hike is strenuous, climbing up alongside a creek with sandstone boulders strewn about from past storms. Along its corridor you'll see varying canyon flora and have ample opportunities to cool off in the creek. At the summit, you get all-time views of the Pacific Ocean, the Channel Islands, and the coast towns of Montecito and Santa Barbara.