Deep in the mountains of the Los Padres National Forest near Santa Barbara is a long and dusty backpacking trail that will take you to the hidden Sespe Hot Springs. Because this trail requires at least one day of hiking in warm, exposed conditions, most people do not visit or even know about Sespe. Yet, for those brave enough to Read more...

Gaviota Hot Springs Near Santa Barbara Imagine you’re visiting the urban sprawl of Los Angeles on a foggy spring morning, and you decide to go for a day trip to the coastal mountains where you’ll hike for a couple of hours and soak in a natural hot spring pool. This day trip is possible at Gaviota Hot Springs, located in Read more...

Montecito Hot Springs is a delightful set of hot spring pools tucked into a leafy canyon. The hot springs are a historical site and now sit on protected National Forest land. They are increasingly popular on social media and are likely crowded even on weekdays. However, these hot pools are deserving of popularity: you can reach them after a one-hour Read more...

If you’re looking for an adventurous backpacking trail to a hidden hot springs tub, drive into the Los Padres National Forest and trek to Willett Hot Springs. These are some of the most remarkable and accessible hot springs for hikers and backpackers in Southern California. Willett Hot Springs Information Near Santa Barbara Tucked into the hills of Los Padres National Read more...