Rattlesnake Canyon Trailhead in Santa Barbara is a popular out-and-back hiking area nestled in Skofield Park. Visitors can expect a moderately challenging trail featuring creek crossings, shaded spots, boulder climbs, and scenic overlooks.
The trail provides access to natural water pools perfect for cooling off and offers a mix of sun and canopy shade. Dogs are allowed but should be kept leashed due to local rattlesnake presence. Free street parking is available but can be limited, and no restrooms are on site.
What to Expect:
🌿 Moderate out-and-back trails with some exposed, rocky sections
💧 Creek crossings and natural water pools for cooling down
🐕 Dog-friendly areas (dogs on leash recommended due to rattlesnakes)
👨👩👧 Kid-friendly hiking paths
Important Information:
– No restrooms at trailhead
– Parking is free but can be challenging, mostly street parking
– Dogs must be leashed, rattlesnakes are present
– Trail partly cellular service dead zones; offline maps recommended
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
🌄 Start Early for Cooler Hikes: Early morning hikes offer shade and cool creek crossings before midday heat.
💧 Bring Water and Hat: Parts of the trail are exposed; hydration and sun protection are essential.
🐍 Keep Dogs Leashed: Presence of rattlesnakes makes leashing pets important for safety.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps: Cellular service is spotty, so have trail maps handy before you start.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Rattlesnake Canyon Trailhead is highly praised for its beautiful creekside hiking with shaded trails and natural pools. Visitors appreciate the moderate trail challenge and family-friendliness, noting some difficulty in parking and the need for caution due to rattlesnakes.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
