SUMMERLAND HORSE FIELD GUIDE
Two-and-a-Half Hours on Horseback Above the Pacific: A Private Trail Picnic in Summerland
A private 2 ½‑hour horseback ride with a mid-ride, curated picnic above Santa Barbara’s coastline — this guide explains what to expect, who can ride, and the logistics to plan.
Two-and-a-Half Hours on Horseback Above the Pacific: A Private Trail Picnic in Summerland.
Los Padres Outfitters runs a private 2 ½‑hour horseback trail picnic in Summerland on the American Riviera, pairing well‑trained horses and experienced wranglers with coastal ridgelines, mountain views and beachside trails. The rides use the Montecito Trails Foundation network, threading under coastal live oaks and willows past estates and ocean overlooks; the temperate Central Coast climate keeps this offering available year‑round.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Epic coastal and mountain vistas
Rides traverse Santa Barbara’s mix of ridgelines and shoreline, delivering wide Pacific views and inland mountain panoramas that define the American Riviera.
Trails that wind through oak canopies to the sea
The route uses the Montecito Trails Foundation network, meandering beneath coastal live oaks and mossy willows and passing stunning estates on the way to beachside overlooks.
A secluded, locally sourced picnic midway
Halfway through the ride you dismount for a curated picnic at a secluded viewpoint with land‑and‑sea panoramas; guides provide locally sourced treats and guests may bring their own wine.
What the day feels like
What the ride feels like
The outing is a private, guided trail ride on well‑trained horses led by friendly wranglers across the Santa Barbara hills and coastal trails. Riders of all experience levels are accommodated as the guides manage pace and saddlery; the temperate local climate makes the route accessible throughout the year.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this ride suits — and who should make other plans.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
If you have dietary requirements let the operator know in advance; picnic rides include a selection of locally sourced treats and guests are welcome to provide their own wine.
Picnic details are arranged as part of the ride; guests may supply wine and should communicate any dietary needs when booking so the operator can prepare appropriately.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Is food provided during the picnic?
Yes — the operator prepares a specially curated selection of locally sourced treats for the mid‑ride picnic; notify them of any dietary requirements in advance.
Can I bring my own wine?
Yes — guests are welcome to provide their own wine for the picnic.
Is a gratuity included?
A 20% automatic gratuity is pre‑added upon booking to all picnic rides.
Are there age restrictions for riders?
Standard rides are for guests 10 years old and up; children ages 7–9 with riding experience should contact the operator by phone to discuss suitability.
Is there a weight limit?
Yes — there is a 220 lb weight limit for riders.
Are rides available year‑round?
Yes — rides are offered seven days per week, year‑round thanks to the temperate Central Coast climate.
Do I need prior riding experience?
No prior experience is necessary; guides and well‑trained horses are provided to accommodate riders of all levels.