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.