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 Reporter |
Summary: This hardly qualifies as a hike. It is less than a mile on a road, but it is certainly a magnificent spot. The views are gorgeous. You can see the entire Santa Ynez Valley, and the San Rafael Wilderness looms large to the north. Lake Cachuma sits in cerulean splendor to the west, while the Solomon and Purisma Hills appear badland-esque in their rolling and crenellated forms. Walk to the "castle" and check out the spectacular ruins. Knapp was the founder of Union Carbide and he had quite a spread here. It burned down mid 20th century and is now available for your viewing pleasure. Trailhead: Take the 154 from the 101 in Santa Barbara. Head up San Marcos Pass until you near the summit. Turn right onto East Camino Cielo. The turn is less than a mile past the turnoff for West Camino Cielo. Don't get them confused. Follow East Camino Cielo to Painted Cave Road. Continue for nearly a mile. There is a gated road on the north side of the roadway with a sign that says, "right to pass revocable by owner." Park on either side of the roadway, and walk down the roadway behind the gate. The ruins are located on private property, watch for signs that may change the right to pass, and check with the rangers before you go. (Lat:34.51852 Lon:-119.79345) Trail Guides for Knapps Castle: Best Hikes With Dogs - Southern California by Allen Riedel (Mountaineers books) California Hiking by Tom Sinestra and Ann Marie Brown (Avalon Travel) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: Los Padres National Forest - Santa Barbara Ranger District (805) 967-3481 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Allen Riedel, who has posted 123 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Page 1 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by VG on 11/11/2011 The trail is still open. This site has photos from June 2011 plus a trail report and map. http://www.hikespeak.com/trails/knapps-castle-hike-santa-barbara/
Reviewed by Teresa on 5/29/2011 I am sad to see that their has been some construction including an amphitheater. There are some construction materials including an abandoned jeep and boat plus other stuff. The amphitheater is right in the middle of the old mountain retreat including what appears to an illegal non-permitted building as well. Based on my research, the building has stopped since building permits were not pulled. There was a sign stating that there were security cameras watching the place. I did not see any electricity going to the area so I doubt there are cameras. I have lived here for 30 years and this place is a retreat for me. I was disappointed to see what has happened. New owner! Shame on you. 
Reviewed by matt on 5/29/2011 Directions are no longer valid. There are several gated roads but no signs about owner revoking right to pass or whatever. All private properties now. Don't waste your time trying to find it.
Reviewed by Ian on 2/6/2011 My 2nd time going back there after 5 years with 2 of my friends. It still has that beautiful view, but the whole changes in the property is making it weird for me. The trailer that is park inn there creep me out a little bit. We didn't see anyone inside the trailer, but it just scared me a little bit.We came inn there like 5PM until 8PM. Pick up few trashes around just to keep the place clean and nice. So PLEASE, when you go there, take your trash with you when you leave the place. Thank you =). But yeah, this place is still one of my favorite places to go around California. And maybe come back this coming summer with more friends. 
Reviewed by LKP on 8/11/2010 This is an awesome place. I am a local, born and raised ...I have to let you all know this IS private property. Normally it is not a problem but perhaps the ownership has changed hands. I do not know that much. Please don't litter anywhere you hike =)
Reviewed by BLM on 8/7/2010 What is going on with the dogs and the new hand-lettered sign that warns about them? We arrived there yesterday with guests, saw the sign and the dogs and decided against going further....who is the person (pregnant woman according to another post) squatting there and WHY is she allowed to stay and ruin the experience for others?
Reviewed by Scott on 7/29/2010 Horrible experience. Pregnant woman in a trailer up there has three dogs that she lets roam around. Dogs are taking a dump everywhere, and one of the dogs goes around nipping and biting hikers. Woman comes out of the trailer acting as if she owns the place and tells people that they're trespassing on private property and that she'll call the police. Obviously, very defensive about her dogs nipping at and biting the hikers. She seemed to think that since the dogs didn't break skin, the hikers should have nothing to complain about.
Reviewed by Bob on 3/6/2010 Love to walk this trail as often as possible. Can only imagine what a fantastic spot for a home with such a view! Easy to get to and a great place to take out of town visitors. It really blows them away!! Only downside is the trash left behind. Would like to see a cleanup which would sure improve things. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, Santa Barbara County Hiking, Santa Barbara County Trails, Santa Barbara County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
