Santa Barbara: High Ropes Adventure Course & 80+ Obstacles

Summary

Challenge yourself on 80 aerial obstacles in ancient oaks near Santa Barbara with guides helping every step

You’ll push yourself through over 80 high ropes obstacles set in Santa Barbara’s old oak groves — climbing ladders, crossing rope bridges, all with local guides ready to help you out (and maybe laugh with you). Gear and safety briefing are included so you can focus on the challenge — and that quiet rush when you realize you’re actually doing it.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t think I’d be the type to enjoy dangling sixty feet up in an oak grove near Santa Barbara, but there I was, helmet slightly crooked, palms already sweating before we even clipped in. The harness felt snug (maybe too snug at first), and our guide, Jamie, just grinned and said, “You’ll forget it once you’re moving.” She showed us how to double-clip the safety lines — I fumbled the first time and muttered something about my nerves. Jamie just nodded, like she’d seen it a hundred times. Probably had.

The first route was supposed to be easy, but even those lower rope bridges swayed more than I expected. You could smell the wood — old oaks mixed with that dusty California sun — and somewhere below someone laughed so hard they snorted. That made me laugh too, which helped. By the second level, my arms were burning a little and my shoes kept slipping on one of those wobbly ladders. There’s this moment when you’re halfway across a swinging log and all you hear is your own breath and maybe a hawk overhead. Not sure if it’s fear or excitement or both.

Jamie was always nearby — sometimes calling out tips (“Lean back! Trust the harness!”), sometimes just giving a thumbs-up from below. The hardest part? That last set of obstacles where you have to balance on what feels like nothing but air. I almost bailed but some kid behind me cheered me on (I should’ve asked his name). My hands smelled like metal from the clips for hours after. We finished sweaty, laughing, and honestly kind of proud — not in a big way, just quietly satisfied. Still think about that view through the branches when I close my eyes at night.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Complete high ropes adventure course

• Receive safety briefing and gear
• Climb ladders and cross rope bridges
• Navigate 80+ aerial obstacles
• Use double clip Via Ferrata harness
• Receive guide assistance throughout course

Top questions

How long does the high ropes adventure course near Santa Barbara take?

The experience lasts up to 2 hours from start to finish.

Are guides available during the high ropes course?

Yes, guides are stationed throughout the course to assist participants as needed.

Is equipment provided for the adventure course?

Yes, harnesses and helmets are included for all participants.

What is the maximum height of the obstacles?

Some obstacles reach up to 60 feet above ground level.

Are there different difficulty levels on the ropes course?

Yes, there are four main routes with obstacles ranging from easy to very difficult.

Is this activity suitable for people with limited mobility?

No, the course is not wheelchair accessible; only viewing areas are ADA compliant.

What physical condition is required for this adventure?

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended for participants.

Is lunch or food included in this tour?

No meals are included; only gear and guidance are provided.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a safety harness and helmet plus a full safety briefing before you start climbing. Local guides will be present throughout your time on the course to assist or encourage you as needed while you tackle over 80 aerial obstacles among Santa Barbara’s old growth oaks.