Tangerine Falls
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
900 ft
About Tangerine Falls
Tangerine Falls is a seasonal cascade tucked into the hills near Santa Barbara, located within Los Padres National Forest. The falls drop roughly 100 feet and are at their most dramatic after heavy winter and spring rains, when the canyon fills with riparian greenery and chaparral; the setting rewards photographers and hikers looking for a lush, relatively secluded outing. The route to the falls follows the Cold Spring Trail on a moderate 2.5-mile out-and-back that gains about 900 feet in elevation. Expect shaded stretches, creek crossings and rocky sections, with a short final approach that requires scrambling over boulders to reach the base and best viewpoints. The nearest developed camping is Upper Oso Campground, approximately 12.9 km away, so most visitors treat Tangerine Falls as a day hike.
Height: 100 feet
Trail Description
Trail: Cold Spring Trail (out-and-back), 2.5 miles total. Elevation gain: ~900 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. Surface and terrain: mixed dirt and rocky tread with creek crossings and shaded canyon sections. Grade: a steady climb through the canyon; much of the ascent is moderate but sustained. Trail class/technical: generally a moderate hiking route, with a short final scramble over rocks to access the base of the falls — careful footing and good shoes recommended. Features: seasonal waterfall ~100 feet tall, multiple creek crossings, shaded riparian corridor; suitable for day hikes when water is present.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a beautiful hike through a wooded canyon with views of the surrounding mountains. The waterfall is most impressive after winter rains, but it may dry up during the summer months.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and creek crossings.
Seasonal Closures
The trail may be temporarily closed after heavy rains due to unsafe conditions. Check with the Los Padres National Forest for updates.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery, especially after rain. Use caution during creek crossings and while scrambling over rocks near the falls. Poison oak is common in the area, so stay on the trail.
Location & Access
Getting There
The trailhead for Tangerine Falls is accessed via the Cold Spring Trail, which begins near Mountain Drive in Montecito, California. The trailhead is well-marked and located in a residential area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available along Mountain Drive near the trailhead. Be mindful of residential parking restrictions and signage.
Elevation
1657 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.469875° N, -119.658837° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as the trail can be slippery near the creek crossings and the falls. Bring plenty of water and be prepared for some rock scrambling near the end of the trail.
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With 2.5 miles and 900 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
Where to Stay
Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
UPPER OSO CAMPGROUND
8.0 miles away · 19 sites
Overview Upper Oso Campground provides ample opportunity for exploration of California's coastal mountains. It is a family-friendly campground, equipped with equestrian sites, and is close to a variety of trails and several mountain streams.Recreation A variety of hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails begin in and around the campground, including the Santa Cruz Trail, which traverses 18 miles north to the San Rafael Wilderness. The 2.5-mile Aliso National Recreation Trail leads thro
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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Montecito, California on SoakingSprings.
Explore California springsFrequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Tangerine Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Tangerine Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
Best Seasons to Visit
The best time to visit Tangerine Falls is in late winter or early spring, after significant rainfall, when the waterfall is flowing at its peak.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, Inspiration Point, and the beaches of Santa Barbara.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, lizards, and occasionally deer. Be cautious of poison oak along the trail.
