Arroyo Burro Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Hard
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
6-8.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
17.1 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
1,094 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Seeking a challenging adventure near Santa Barbara? The Arroyo Burro Trail is a high-demand, high-reward type of hike in the Los Padres National Forest that boasts unrivaled views of the Mission Crags, Santa Barbara, and the Pacific.

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Route Description for Arroyo Burro Trail

The Arroyo Burro Trail is an excellent addition to intrepid adventurers hiking itineraries. Tackle technical terrain, maneuver stream crossings and indulge in the wonderful scenery. Reserved for experienced hikers, this route ascents vertiginous, rocky terrain demanding endurance and a pair of comfy footwear! Additionally, much of the trail is exposed, so be sure to pack plenty of water and wear SPF. Though not necessary, the trail GPS may prove useful when navigating overgrown sections of the trail. Note there is poison oak along this route—some wear long pants to avoid exposure.

Embark on your adventure along the Arroyo Burro Hike from the Jesusita Trailhead. From here, follow the Jesusita Trail north, diverting left onto the Arroyo Burro Trail at the next junction. Follow this path northwest, gradually climbing through tree stands and exposed meadows abundant with wildflowers in the summer months. Eventually, the route will wind along the mountainside of Barger Peak before dipping down into a creek canyon. Beyond this point, the trail will intensely climb via switchbacks to E Camino Cielo Road.

From here, you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas of the neighboring mountains and Santa Barbara below. On a clear day, you will also be granted views of the Channel Islands in the Pacific. After reveling in the scenery, retrace your footing back down to the trailhead.

Getting to the Arroyo Burro Trail Trailhead

The Arroyo Burro Hike departs from Jesusita Trailhead off San Roque Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Arroyo Burro Trail Elevation Graph

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Arroyo Burro Trail Reviews

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