This worn path goes past several charred trees in an area recovering from the 2009 Jesusita Fire. To let the inspiration sink in, you can head up to the right and find a boulder to sit on, or trek a tenth of a mile down a footpath to a panoramic bluff about 75 feet lower than Inspiration Point. You can also also views looking west down miles and miles of the Santa Ynez Mountains, the dramatic backdrop behind Santa Barbara. Inspiration Point provides clear views over the coast of Santa Barbara and across the Pacific Ocean toward the Channel Islands. To reach Inspiration Point, cross the road and walk a hundred feet out to a worn dirt landing where panoramic views await. The trail to the right is the other half of Jesusita Trail, used by those taking the longer route to Inspiration Point. The road to the left, which heads down into the canyon and dead ends by electrical towers, can be used to reach Historic Inspiration Point (described below). Shortly thereafter, and 1.85 miles from the start, the trail reaches an important but unmarked intersection with a dirt service road. The trail switchbacks up the west side of the canyon and comes up onto a ridge where it passes below some large power lines. Bear left to stay on Jesusita Trail, which is a single track from this point on. The wide dirt road ascending to the right will dead end at a tower for the power lines that run across the canyon. Keep the left turn trend going when you reach an unmarked split after another 250 feet. Now turn left onto Jesusita Trail, at this junction 0.95 miles from the start. Bear left to stay on Tunnel Trail and walk a short distance up to another split. Cross the bridge, 3/4 of a mile from the start and continue uphill where the pavement finally ends as you come to a split. Looking back, the ocean shimmers below the canyon.Īfter 2/3 of a mile, the trail curves to the left and descends to a wooden bridge over Mission Creek above a flood control dam. Ahead, you’ll see interesting sandstone formations like the Mission Crags rising above the canyon. The trail weaves up the west side of Mission Canyon, offering big open views. The next 0.8 miles of Tunnel Trail are wide and paved, but don’t get discouraged. Begin from roadside parking along Tunnel Road and walk about 125 yards up to a gate where the hike officially starts.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |