Cold Spring Trailhead offers moderate hiking with options for loop and out-and-back routes reaching Tangerine Falls and Montecito Peak. Visitors can enjoy creek crossings, beautiful waterfalls, and panoramic vistas of Santa Barbara and the ocean.
What to Expect:
🌄 Moderate loop and out-and-back trails
🌊 Creek crossings and waterfalls
🚶♂️ Good for hiking, running, and walking
🐕 Dog-friendly, with trails suitable for pets
🚫 No restrooms or accessible parking
Important Information:
– Limited free street parking, no dedicated lot
– No wheelchair accessible entrance or parking
– Stay alert for poison oak in wet seasons
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🌿 Choose the Clockwise Route: Locals recommend hiking the loop clockwise for a smoother experience and better shade.
🌊 Water Crossings: Bring water shoes or be prepared to remove shoes for creek crossings during wetter months.
⏰ Arrive Early: Limited free street parking means early arrival is key, especially on weekends and holidays.
🍂 Best in Spring: Visit during spring and early summer for flowing waterfalls and vibrant natural scenery.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Cold Spring Trailhead is widely praised for its breathtaking views, well-maintained trails, and varied hiking options. Visitors appreciate the natural beauty, especially the waterfalls and creek areas. Parking is consistently noted as limited and challenging, and the lack of restrooms is mentioned as a drawback. Construction and trail access issues have occasionally affected the experience but expected to improve.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
