Rancho El Nido Preserve in Ojai

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Once upon a time, in the distant land of Ojai, pure-hearted environmentalists battled black-hearted developers over control of the beautiful, sprawling Rancho El Nido. El Nido is Spanish for The Nest, and because those magnificent environmentalists prevailed over those greedy bastard developers, The Nest is safe for great horned owls, a variety of hawks, and the Weekday Trailblazers.

As part of the Ventura River watershed, the preserve is an ideal habitat for over 300 species of plants and animals. Though the grizzly bears that once called this area home have moved on, black bears, mountain lions, bobcats, badgers, coyotes, and mule deer still prowl and frolic here.

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Our 7 mile journey will pass through an oak forest canyon, a chaparral-covered ridgeline, a wide grassland, an old orange grove, and the rocky bed of the Ventura River. Along the way, we'll climb 1100 feet and take in amazing views of the Ojai Valley, Lake Casitas, and the surrounding mountains.

Too hot in summer, too wet in winter, take advantage of this hike while we can. Right now should be ideal- lush green and bursting wildflowers.

Directions:

From the 101, take the 33 north towards Ojai. At the intersection with Hwy 150 (Baldwin Rd), about 11 miles from the 101, turn left, then turn right after three blocks onto Rice Road. Watch carefully for Hwy 150 - it's not well marked. Once on Rice Road, drive north about 1.5 miles to the Riverview trailhead on the left, across the street from a large horse corral.

There is no fee for parking.

It takes about 45 minutes to drive there from Thousand Oaks, so give yourself plenty of time.

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DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY

IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:

The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.

Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.

If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.

All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.