Nojoqui Falls Parks is located just off the 101 Freeway north of the Gaviota Tunnel between Santa Barbara and Buellton. In addition to picnic tables and playing fields, the park offers a short hike to an eighty-foot waterfall. This two-thirds of a mile mile round trip trail ascends 175 feet up a shaded canyon to the enchanting Nojoqui Falls.
There are no junctions on the way to Nojoqui Falls, just stick to the wide trail as it passes through an old forest of oaks and laurels. Halfway up, the trail enters the canyon below the falls, crossing a wooden bridge and climbing the stone steps on the left bank of the creek. The trail crisscrosses the canyon and arrives at a stone viewing platform at the base of the falls. Overhead, Nojoqui Falls cascades down an 80-foot wall of fern-lined sandstone. This year-round attraction peaks in early spring when the falls are fullest, but Nojoqui Falls remains picturesque in the autumn when the waterfall is reduced to a slender ribbon of water flowing down a lush green tapestry. During a heavy rain, Nojoqui Falls expands from a trickle to a torrent, becoming a truly powerful sight.
Unfortunately, the Chumash word Nojoqui is pronounced na-hoo-ee and not no-joke-ee, which would have been more humorous to their English speaking successors. Regardless of the name, the waterfall is a beautiful sight, certainly worthy of the short hike (no joking). After enjoying the falls, simply return the way you came. The entire hike takes about 20 minutes. While this is not enough time to work up a sweat, visiting the falls is a nice activity for anyone driving on the 101 and looking for a quick break. Those spending more time in Nojoqui Falls Park can make use of the picnic tables, BBQ pits, and ball fields. The park is free to the public and dogs are welcome on leash.
To get to the trailhead: From Santa Barbara, take the 101 North 5.4 miles past the Gaviota Rest Area and turn right on La Lata Place, following signs for Nojoqui Park. Take La Lata Place for one mile and make the first left on Alisal Road. After 0.8 miles, turn right into Nojoqui Falls Park. Enter the park and follow the road back and to the left. There are restrooms just in front of the cul-de-sac at the trailhead.
To get to Nojoqui Falls Park from the north, from the city of Buellton, take the 101 Freeway south for 4.7 miles and turn left following signs for Nojoqui Park. Then take La Lata Place to Alisal Road and on to the park as described above.
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