The 2 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara isn’t just a pretty face—its proximity to the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Ojai Valley makes it a prime spot for outdoor enthusiasts. While the city itself offers plenty of coastal strolls, the real magic happens just a short drive inland, where rugged hills and peaceful forests beckon. Whether you’re after a gentle ramble or an active day out, Santa Barbara’s hiking scene delivers with authentic experiences that avoid crowds and focus on local guides who know their stuff.
One of the best ways to explore is through guided tours that let you enjoy nature without the hassle of planning every detail. From serene forest walks in Ojai to energetic adventures like biking or rock climbing with Trails by Potter, there’s a perfect outing for every type of hiker.
Quick Overview
Our list includes two standout hiking and outdoor adventure tours. First, a guided hiking experience in Ojai offering a peaceful forest escape with local guides, all for about $100 per person. Second, an outdoor activity tour by Trails by Potter that combines hiking, biking, or climbing in the Ojai Valley for $95 per person. Both have a 5-star rating and appeal to those looking for authenticity and expert guidance.
1. Guided Hiking Experience in Ojai
For those seeking a peaceful retreat into nature, this private guided hike in Ojai is hard to beat. The tour lasts about two and a half hours, giving you time to explore the forested hills away from the busy crowds. Your local guide will lead you through trails that showcase the natural flora and fauna of Southern California’s scenic Ojai Valley. It’s a relaxing walk where the focus is on soaking up the quiet beauty of the landscape—perfect for photo ops and unwinding.
What makes this tour special is that water and snacks are provided, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own supplies. The guide’s personal knowledge about the area’s ecology adds depth, making the experience educational along with scenic. Plus, the small-group setting ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of room for questions and breaks by peaceful creekside spots.
Guests consistently praise the guide’s accommodating attitude, with one reviewer noting, “Our guide was very accommodating, and went out of her way to make things work for us.” This tour suits those who want a laid-back, intimate experience in nature, ideal for families or anyone wanting a brief escape from city life.
Bottom line: If you’re after a tranquil forest walk led by friendly locals, this guided hike in Ojai is a top choice, offering quality, comfort, and natural beauty for a reasonable price.
2. If you Hike, Bike, Rock Climb or play Tennis, Trails by Potter are your guides!
For those with a little extra energy, this adventure tour offers a flexible outdoor experience in the Ojai Valley. Priced at about $95 per person, it lasts around three hours and includes options to hike, bike, or climb depending on your preference. The guides are local experts who will tailor the day to your interests—whether you want a strenuous trek, a leisurely bike ride, or a quick rock climb.
The tour’s strength lies in its customization; guides provide all necessary equipment and can pick you up and drop you off at convenient locations around Santa Barbara or Ojai. This makes it a good choice for travelers who want an active outing with minimal fuss. The experience also includes snacks and water to keep your energy up, making it perfect for those who want to push themselves a little without worrying about logistics.
Reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the fun atmosphere. One reviewer said, “Enjoyed some snacks and water as we powered through the activity,” which shows the tour’s focus on comfort and practicality. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy variety—hiking, biking, or climbing—plus those looking for a more energetic outdoor day.
Bottom line: If your idea of a perfect day involves a bit of everything outdoors, this flexible, guided activity offers solid value, all led by experienced locals in the beautiful Ojai Valley.
How to Choose
When picking a hiking or outdoor adventure tour near Santa Barbara, consider your fitness level, interests, and how much time you want to spend. The guided hike in Ojai is ideal for a peaceful, scenic escape if you prefer a gentle walk and want to learn about local plant life. On the other hand, if you’re craving a more active and customizable day with options to bike or climb, Trails by Potter offers a well-rounded outdoor experience.
Budget-wise, both tours are similar, but think about whether a 2.5-hour hike or a 3-hour multi-activity adventure better fits your schedule. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Santa Barbara provides fantastic opportunities for hiking and outdoor fun, with options for both peaceful forest walks and energetic activities. The guided hike in Ojai gives a quiet, nature-focused experience with expert guidance, perfect for those seeking serenity. Meanwhile, Trails by Potter caters to more active travelers who want to incorporate biking or climbing into their day.
For couples wanting a relaxing escape, the guided hike is a great pick. If you’re traveling with friends or family and love a flexible, action-packed day, the adventure tour will suit you well. Either way, booking ahead ensures your spot in these popular outdoor experiences—so don’t wait!