The Overlook Trail is a relatively easy and short 1.1 mile lollipop trail that climbs from Toro Canyon into the low foothills of the Santa Ynez mountains, reaching a scenic shaded gazebo with a couple benches, before dropping back down into the canyon.
The trail follows a wide graded dirt road, passing by a few of the climbable boulders. This is a hike that is short enough that families with children can do it, offering their kids a slightly challenging path - with a couple spots of short steep uphill grade - that is short enough for them to complete, and packs enough punch with the views to keep them entertained. As the trail is in a lollipop orientation, it doesn't really make a difference which direction it is hiked. The gazebo sits at about the halfway point either direction.
There isn't much protection from the sun or wind at the higher points, and it gives a chance for visitors to take in the landscape of the canyon and see the oak shaded canyon floor below.
A sign near the western end of the park marks the trail, which begins behind one of the picnic areas.
There are no amenities along the hike, however playgrounds, tables, water and bathrooms are all located throughout the park grounds.
Toro Canyon Park is free to access and open from 8am to sunset daily.
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