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.
Adventure brief
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.
Experience the serene beauty of California's coastline and hills on a 2 ½ hour private trail picnic ride with Los Padres Outfitters in Summerland. This unique adventure blends horseback riding with a tranquil picnic, offering an intimate way to explore scenic trails away from the crowds. Perfect for couples, families, or small groups, the ride takes you through rolling hills, shaded woodlands, and open meadows with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Your expert guide ensures a personalized experience tailored to your pace and preferences. Along the way, you'll have time to relax with a gourmet picnic featuring fresh local ingredients, making this outing a perfect mix of gentle exercise, nature immersion, and culinary delight. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, this peaceful escape provides a chance to connect with nature and unwind in a truly special setting.
Route Schematic
Route schematic and stops
The ride winds from inland trails to a mid‑ride picnic and coastal overlooks — typical stops along the route include:
Trail entry through coastal oak canopy
Begin on singletrack and ranch trails that pass under coastal live oaks and willows as you gain views of the surrounding estates and ridgelines.
Mid‑ride picnic viewpoint (halfway)
Dismount at a secluded spot where the guide sets out a specially curated selection of locally sourced treats for a scenic picnic.
Beach overlook and coastal stretches
The ride continues toward seaside overlooks and beach approaches that showcase the link between the hills and the Pacific.
Return through the Montecito Trails network
Finish by retracing or looping back through the Montecito Trails Foundation network to the stables.
Riders must meet operator requirements: there is a 220 lb weight limit, minimum guest age is 10 (children 7–9 with prior riding experience may be accommodated when you contact the operator by phone), and larger group arrangements require advance notice.
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.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-10T12:54:30.514Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.