Santa Barbara is a fantastic destination for mountain biking, known for its varied terrain, scenic coastal views, and year-round mild weather. The Santa Ynez Mountains, just behind the city, offer a mix of challenging trails, technical single tracks, and gentler fire roads. Here’s a guide to help you get started with mountain biking in Santa Barbara.

1. Best Mountain Biking Trails

A. Beginner to Intermediate Trails

• Ellwood Mesa Preserve
• Distance: 5-10 miles of mixed trails
• Difficulty: Beginner
• Terrain: Mostly flat with gentle single-track paths, ocean views, eucalyptus groves
• Details: Great for those new to mountain biking or looking for an easygoing ride. The trails weave through coastal cliffs with minimal technical sections.
• Jesusita Trail
• Distance: 7 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Terrain: Climb with rocky sections and single-track areas, rewarding views
• Details: This trail starts at the San Roque Trailhead and climbs through oak woodlands. It’s a steady climb with some technical sections near the top but is manageable for intermediate riders.

 

 

• Knapp’s Castle
• Distance: 5 miles out-and-back
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Terrain: Fire roads with rocky sections, views of the valley
• Details: This trail offers sweeping views and leads to the remains of a historic castle. It’s ideal for those looking for a moderate workout and great scenery without heavy technical challenges.

B. Advanced Trails

• Romero Canyon
• Distance: 10 miles
• Difficulty: Advanced
• Terrain: Technical single track with rocks, roots, and switchbacks
• Details: Romero Canyon offers some of the best single track in the area but is challenging with technical descents and climbs. It’s known for rocky switchbacks and a thrilling, fast descent.
• Tunnel Trail
• Distance: 7 miles out-and-back
• Difficulty: Expert
• Terrain: Steep, rocky, technical sections, advanced downhill
• Details: This is one of Santa Barbara’s most challenging trails, with loose rocks, boulder-strewn paths, and steep sections. It’s not for the faint of heart but provides an adrenaline rush for experienced riders.

 

 

• Cold Springs Trail
• Distance: 4 miles
• Difficulty: Advanced
• Terrain: Rocky single track, creek crossings, steep descents
• Details: Known for its challenging rock gardens, this is a steep, technical trail popular among expert riders. It's thrilling and offers beautiful views of Santa Barbara and the coastline below.

2. Essentials for Santa Barbara Mountain Biking

• Bike Type: A full-suspension mountain bike is ideal for trails like Tunnel and Cold Springs, where technical descents demand responsive suspension. For gentler trails, a hardtail can suffice.
• Weather Preparedness: The climate is mild, but it can vary by season. Bring layers in winter, as it can get chilly, and plenty of water year-round, as some trails lack water access.
• Permits and Access: Many trails are free to access, but check local regulations or seasonal closures. Romero and Cold Springs trails may close after heavy rains to prevent damage.
• Safety Gear: A helmet is essential, and elbow/knee pads are recommended for more technical trails. Trails like Tunnel can be unforgiving, so extra padding is advisable.
• Trail Etiquette: Many trails are multi-use, so watch for hikers and equestrians. Yield to uphill riders, and keep speeds in check on blind corners.

3. Tips for Different Skill Levels

• Beginners: Stick to fire roads and less technical trails, like Ellwood Mesa or Jesusita. Build confidence on easier terrain before tackling steep or rocky sections.
• Intermediate Riders: Try Knapp’s Castle or the lower sections of Romero Canyon. These trails provide moderate climbs and more challenging terrain to develop technical skills.
• Advanced Riders: Test yourself on Tunnel and Cold Springs. These are known for their rough terrain, technical sections, and require precise handling and strength for climbs and descents.

4. Best Seasons for Mountain Biking in Santa Barbara

• Fall and Winter: Cooler, ideal conditions. Rains can add a bit of mud but generally dry quickly. Be cautious after heavy rain, as trails may close to prevent erosion.
• Spring: Wildflowers bloom, adding beauty to the trails. Mornings are often cool, but temperatures rise through the day.
• Summer: Hot and dry. Early morning or late afternoon rides are best, especially for trails without shade, like Romero Canyon.

5. Mountain Biking Shops and Rentals

• Santa Barbara Bike Rentals: Offers high-quality mountain bikes for rent, including full suspension options.
• Bicycle Bob’s of Santa Barbara: Known for quality repair services and rentals, as well as gear for all levels.
• Velo Pro Cyclery: Offers rentals and great local trail advice.

6. Guided Tours and Skills Clinics

If you're new to mountain biking or want to learn from a local expert, several outfitters offer guided tours and clinics:

• SBMTV (Santa Barbara Mountain Bike Trail Volunteers): Offers clinics and trail days for various skill levels, and you can join them to learn more about trail maintenance.
• Santa Barbara Adventure Company: Offers guided rides for beginners and intermediate riders. They can also help you discover hidden spots and maximize your experience on Santa Barbara’s trails.

7. Local Biking Events

Check out annual events like the Santa Barbara 100 for mountain and road bikers, or volunteer with SBMTV to help maintain local trails and connect with the community.

Santa Barbara’s mountain biking scene is all about variety, offering everything from easy coastal rides to highly technical, adrenaline-pumping trails in the mountains. With scenic landscapes, friendly locals, and trails for every skill level, you’re in for a great ride!