Though a short hike, this trail provides a nice walk from the Lower Oso area and because it is fairly level, is nice for children. It can be extended into a longer hike by continuing through Upper Oso campground into Oso Canyon or by taking the connector trail up to the Aliso Canyon Nature Trail.
Difficulty: Easy
Points of Interests: Canyons, Creeks, Family Friendly, Out & Back, Picnicking, BBQs
User Types: Hikers, Equestrians, Mountain Bikers, Dog Walker, Trail Runners
Locations: Lower Santa Ynez River
Driving Directions
Get Directions to Lower Oso which is located at 34.547358,-119.770374.
Download Directions: Download PDF Map Directions
Driving Directions
Get Directions to Lower Oso which is located at 34.547358,-119.770374.
This short trail winds its way through the soft chaparral and a series of meadows to the lower end of the camp at Upper Oso. If you would like to continue further, walk to the upper end of the campground until you get to a road that leads across Oso Creek to the horse camp. The trail to Nineteen Oaks begins here, crossing and re-crossing the Oso Narrows numerous times before intersecting with the Santa Cruz Trail.
On the west side of the horse camp you will find the connector trail leading to Aliso Canyon. The gain is substantial—about 350’ over the next half mile, but does provide access to high country overlooking the Santa Ynez Valley and San Rafael Mountains.
If you’ have plenty of energy and time you can continue on to Sage Hill campground area and then look for the river trail which follows the north side of the Santa Ynez River and then crosses over into the First Crossing day use area. From there you can take off your shoes and wade across the river and back to Lower Oso.