The Tunnels trail, or as a friend of mine calls it, “Tunnels of Death”, is the gnarliest trail in Santa Barbara County-I call it the Queen. This trail is a double black diamond, 3-mile single track with a non-stop rock garden and exposure, on your right, almost most of the way down. This trail, its elements and ruggedness, will test you mentally and physically. Hands down my favorite trail in Santa Barbara County. As you would imagine from my description this trail isn’t for the faint of heart. Many also use this trail in preparation for big races such as the California Enduro Series.
However, if you’re looking to further advance your already well-established skills, or if you’re just looking for a great downhill trail and love adrenaline, then this is a trail to check out! It’s fast, steep and the type of trail where you must make split second decisions to pick the best line or…..tumbling down you’ll go-which I have done… Although my craziness self thought it was funny tumbling down The Queen, and of course afterwards, I needed a photo of me in the section with blood running down my legs AND a huge smile on my face!
Not only is it a great trail to test yourself on and come out with guaranteed funny/crazy stories to share, but the scenery is beautiful as the whole way down the trail it overlooks Santa Barbara and the beautiful pacific ocean. And there’s a few great spots to pull off, sit on a rock cliff side with your legs dangling over and take it all in.
-Danielle
