Romero Canyon

Romero Canyon is a 10.1-mile route located in Los Padres National Forest east of Montecito, California, southeast of Santa Barbara, and 1.5 hours from Los Angeles. It combines the Romero Canyon Trail (singletrack) and Romero Canyon Road 26W14 (dirt road trail). It is a scenic hike that starts from the Romero Canyon Trailhead and begins with a steep ascent through the lush Romero Canyon. It features oak trees, chaparral, creeks, wildflowers and breathtaking ocean and mountain views. This moderately rated route has an elevation gain of approximately 2,804 feet. The area is accessible throughout the year and is popular with hikers, backpackers, trail runners, and mountain bikers. ABOUT THE AREARomero Canyon lies within the Santa Ynez Mountains which are part of the Transverse Ranges of southern California. The Transverse Ranges are a series of mountain ranges that run along the Pacific Coast and are unique in that they are the only group of mountain ranges that run east-west, as opposed to the other mountain ranges in California that run north-south. ROMERO CANYON TRAILHEADRomero Canyon Trailhead is located off Bella Vista Road and offers a small parking lot. The trailhead can be crowded, especially on the weekends, so arrive early if you want a place to park. WATERWater obtained from the rivers and streams should be treated prior to consumption. CAMPINGThere are lots of camping opportunities in Los Padres National Forest that range from fully established campgrounds to the more primitive sites. For more information about camping visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/lpnf/recreation/camping-cabin. PERMITS AND PASSESLos Padres National Forest - Designated WildernessWilderness / overnight permits are not required within Los Padres National Forest. Trail use and backcountry campsites are on a first-come, first-served basis. For information about campfire permits and current fire restrictions please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/lpnf/passes-permits/?cid=stelprdb5193333. The Adventure PassThe Adventure Pass is a pass used for designated areas within Angeles NF, Cleveland NF, Los Padres and San Bernardino National Forests. ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONRecreation Current ConditionRomero Canyon Trail - USFS