Spyglass Ridge Road Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
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.
2.5-4h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
9.0 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.
416 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

The Spyglass Ridge Road Hike would make a wonderful addition to an experienced hiker’s adventure itinerary. Demanding the navigation of technical terrain, this amazing route rewards its conquerors with dumbfounding vistas of the Santa Ynez Mountains and Santa Barbara below.

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Route Description for Spyglass Ridge Road Hike

Immerse yourself in the foothills of Los Padres along the Spyglass Ridge Road Hike. This wonderful trail travels into the Santa Ynez Mountains through the arid terrain adorned with a diversity of flora and fauna. Explore chaparral communities and keep an eye out for lizards and snakes bathing on the heat-radiating path. Much of the route is exposed and affords incredible views, and warrants extremely hot conditions, so be sure to pack plenty of water and wear SPF.

Setting out from the trailhead, the Spyglass Ridge Road follows the Tunnel Trail northeast. This route will wander up a wide dirt route along the mountainside to Mission Creek. Here you will cross a footbridge over the water before confronting an intersection. At the junction, veer right, and you will be diverted onto the Mission Canyon Catway. This path will wind up the cliffside before reaching yet another trail break. Keep right, and the Mission Canyon Catway will ultimately deliver you to an epic overlook.

Marvel in the beauty of the encompassing Mission Crags and the city of Santa Barbara below. On a clear day, you may even be granted views of the Channel Islands in the Pacific. After enjoying the scenery, retrace your footing back down the path to the trailhead.

Getting to the Spyglass Ridge Road Hike Trailhead

The Spyglass Ridge Road Hike departs from the Tunnel Trailhead off Tunnel Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Spyglass Ridge Road Hike Elevation Graph

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Spyglass Ridge Road Hike Reviews

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