Franklin Trail Trailhead — Attraction in Carpinteria

This place should 6 stars if I could. Far and away exceeded all of my expectations. Easy access to the trail, plenty of parking in the community, no adventure pass required, cell signal throughout the hike for easy communications, beautiful beach scenery and lovely greenery. This hike doesn't offer many tall trees or shade but when I came in the afternoon a couple hours before sunset, it was absolutely perfect. With just enough sunshine for a clearly lit path, stunning sunset colors splashing over the mountainside leading to the ocean, it was an absolute joy for all my senses. Not to mention, extremely secluded and only passing a couple people for the 2 hours...

This is a terrific hike. There are multiple versions of this - it's out and back, with multiple ups and downs, but obviously, you can turn around anytime. Parking is either at the official 'trailhead' at the end of Meadow View Ln, or at Carp High School if it's not in session. Either way, you walk a flat trail to get past all the farms, then start climbing. The full hike is about 5 miles with, as I said, multiple ups and...

Franklin Trail is a great hike or run although it is a tough hike or run . The trail runs up behind Carpinteria High School, and I mean UP. 1250' up to the 3.2 mile sign. and another 1000' to the 5.2 mile sign and then another 800' to the end. The views are spectacular . The first part of the trail past the High School are single track switchbacks leading to the fire roads the...