Beware of kamikaze mountain bikers on this trail. This hike is a relatively moderate hike, especially if you are in good condition.
The trail begins on a paved access road that the Edison Company uses. The trail begins near the end of the pavement and is wide and maintained. The trail climbs through shady chaparral to a small summit which is another Edison access road, dirt this time. The summit is indistinct, except for the fact that when you reach it you have a beautiful view of the city, the ocean and the Channel Islands. This view makes this a popular sunset hike.
The hike is about 3.5 miles round trip
From the Mission, corner of Laguna and Los Olivos Street in Santa Barbara:
Head up Los Olivos toward the mountains. The road makes a jag and becomes Mission Canyon Rd.
At the stop sign, turn right on Foothill Rd.
At the stop sign and fire station, turn left onto Mission Canyon Rd.
At the fork in the road, stay left on Tunnel Rd.
Drive to the end of Tunnel Rd. and park your car. Be careful to park with your tires completely within the line or you will be towed. They are not kidding about that.
Hike up to the end of the road by the large water tank and metal gate across the road. This is the trailhead.
(About 5 minute drive)