Los Padres National Forest Photos

Reversing course the way we came up we descended back down the canyon back to our trailhead. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

A better view than Inspiration Point at our turnaround point. You can actually see Inspiration Point on the peak to the right, below us. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

Near the turnaround point for our hike we found this "hidden valley" to be peaceful, quiet and mostly devoid of other hikers. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

As we turn to the west the canyon opening disappears and we are surrounded by the mountains. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

As we get deeper into the canyon the canyon opening towards Santa Barbara appears smaller. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

Coppertone continues to ascend up the canyon. Farther from the creek there are more open skies. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

This grotto with a pool of water nearby seemed like a perfect lair for a hermit. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

The sometimes dry creek did have some running water, such as at this small waterfall. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

Parts of the trail were quite rocky, particularly near the creek. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

Looking down Rattlesnake Canyon towards Santa Barbara and the Pacific Ocean. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

Ascending up Rattlesnake Canyon. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

No rattlesnakes, but we did spot a trail monster. Thankfully, he turned out to be harmless. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

Looking up the canyon on our way back. Inspiration Point lies around the bend on the slope to the left off camera. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

Here you can see the typical trail surface on the hike through Mission Creek Canyon. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

The large boulder on the left at Inspiration Point+ provides the best vantage point. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

The view from the alternate Inspiration Point is even better. Clearer, less obstructive views than the more widely visited spot. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

Looking over Santa Barbara from Inspiration Point. A cruise ship and oil rigs can be seen in the straights and the Channel Islands can be seen in the distance. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

Looking back again as we ascend in the Mission Creek Canyon. (Photo by Austin Explorer)

Looking back near the start of the hike. There are already some views and the paved road surface makes the ascent easy here. (Photo by Austin Explorer)