Little Caliente Spring
Little Caliente Spring emerges at 90°F in the Los Padres National Forest, where thermal waters rise 28 degrees above ambient in a high-elevation Santa Ynez Mountain setting. This protected spring sits within pristine wilderness managed by the US Forest Service.
A 1.6-mile hike through chaparral leads to Little Caliente at 1,631 feet elevation near Montecito. The moderate trail follows Hildreth Peak Road access, descending through oak and pine forest to reach the warm spring outlet. Water pools in natural alcoves surrounded by native vegetation and exposed granite outcrops typical of Santa Barbara County's coastal ranges.
Named for its moderate heat compared to nearby Big Caliente, Little Caliente springs from a geothermal anomaly in the region's fractured metamorphic rocks. The 28-degree elevation above ambient air temperature (62°F) reflects deep groundwater circulation through heated bedrock in this geothermically active zone of the Los Padres system.
Access is free and open year-round. The 1.6-mile hike is moderate with 400 feet of elevation change. Bring water and sun protection—minimal shade on the exposed slopes. Early morning or late afternoon visits avoid midday heat. US Forest Service regulations require leave-no-trace practices."
Is Little Caliente Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Warm-water soaking
- Overnight camping trips
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...