Santa Barbara, CA: Topatopa Bluff

This 14-mile out-and-back ascends Sisar Canyon to a viewpoint overlooking the Sespe Wilderness.

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A makeshift stone bench marks the highpoint of this 14-mile (round-trip) route. Follow the fire road north up Sisar Canyon to a steep, .6-mile path, gaining 900 feet, that tops out on the 6,367-foot summit. Take in views from the rock perch of coastline and the surrounding Sespe Wilderness before starting the return descent.

Trail Facts

  • Distance: 11.3

Waypoints

TPA001

Location: 34.44764, -119.133757

Hike north into Sisar Canyon.

TPA002

Location: 34.478892, -119.124893

At this hairpin turn, leave Sisar Canyon Road and continue straight on the dirt trail.

TPA003

Location: 34.500387, -119.121982

Turn right at the top of the ridge and hike east.

TPA004

Location: 34.499492, -119.11628

Stay right at this fork.

TPA005

Location: 34.498705, -119.1076

Topatopa Bluff: Take a break on the stone bench and soak up views of coastline and the surrounding Sespe Wilderness before starting the return descent.

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