Saddle Rock Trail

Route Description for Saddle Rock Trail

The Saddle Rock Trail boasts wonderful scenery and a good workout. Located near the Hot Springs Canyon, this route sees plenty of secondary traffic, so be prepared to share the route. Additionally, the limited parking lot at the trailhead fills up fast, but there is an overflow lot on Riven Rock Road. Offering wonderful views, the exposed terrain warrants extremely hot conditions, so pack plenty of water and wear SPF.

Setting out from the trailhead, the Saddle Rock Hike follows the Hot Springs Trail northeast along the creek and through the forestlands. Soon after you depart, you will encounter an intersection; turn right here onto the McMenemy Trail. This route will begin to more intensely climb over the rocky terrain adorned with chaparral. After intersecting with Oak Creek, you will confront another intersection, turn left, and you will be diverted onto the Girard Trail. Follow this route north, up to Saddle Rock.

Marvel in the expansive views of Montecito below and the Pacific and the scenes of the encompassing mountains. After admiring the panoramas, merge onto the Saddle Rock Trail heading south before reconnecting with the McMenemy Trail. Keep right here, then turn left onto the Hot Springs Trail, retracing your steps back to the trailhead.