Tangerine Falls
California • 100 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
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.
The Setting
Tangerine Falls sits at 1,657 feet in the hills of California. At 100 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in California.
Height: 100 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 900 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
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
The falls cascade 100 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently 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
When 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.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring and Winter.
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.
Current Water Conditions
14 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 46 years of record
19.67 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
About This Gauge
Weather Forecast
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
Best Western Plus Santa Barbara
Beachside Inn
Lemon Tree Inn
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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.
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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.
Cities near Tangerine Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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