Start the new year with healthy discipline and habits by intentionally engaging with nature while getting your heart pumping. These Saturday morning hikes are designed to be physically and mentally challenging yet still achievable for most able-bodied adults. Along the way, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the local flora, fauna, and the unique ecology of the Ojai Valley.
These Community Hikes Are Fully Donation Based / Pay What You Can! No payment is required to sign up. However for the safety and enjoyment of the group, space is limited. If you are unable to attend, please reach out to us as soon as possible.
What to Bring
Required:
- Snacks
- Water (1-liter minimum)
- Backpack
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Sweater/Jacket (small enough to store in your backpack when it gets warm)
- Prescribed Medications (if applicable)
- Allergy Medications (if applicable)
- Good shoes (already broken in)
Optional:
- Binoculars
- Trekking poles
Safety Guidelines
- Always listen to your body and avoid pushing beyond your capacity.
- Two trained CPR/First Aid leaders will guide each hike, providing support and flexibility for participants who may need to turn back.
- Basic first aid supplies for trauma-related injuries will be available.
- Participants with specific health needs should bring their own medications (e.g., allergy medications or prescribed medications).
- All participants must sign a liability waiver prior to the hike.
- If weather impacts trail conditions, participants will receive a text message with reroute options. In the case of a full storm, a cancellation notice will be sent.
Reserve Your Spot!
January 4, 2025
Hike: Wills Canyon / Rice Canyon Loop
Distance: 6 miles
Elevation Gain: 602 ft
Starting/Meeting Point: Riverview Trailhead
Description: This Ojai staple offers a grand tour of the dynamic ecosystems within the Ventura River Preserve.
Note: This route includes crossing the Ventura River. Participants can choose between “rock hopping” or walking through potentially thigh-high water.
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
January 11, 2025
Hike: Allan Jacob Loop via Lower River Trail
Distance: 7.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,022 ft
Starting/Meeting Point: Old Baldwin Rd Trailhead
Description: An often-overlooked trail that offers amazing views of Lake Casitas from Chaparral Ridge. Starting at the Old Baldwin Rd Trailhead, this route also provides opportunities to observe riparian wildlife.
Note: This route includes crossing the Ventura River. Participants can choose between “rock hopping” or walking through potentially thigh-high water.
Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
January 18, 2025
Hike: Kennedy Ridge Trail via Rice Canyon (Out and Back)
Distance: 10.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,700 ft
Starting/Meeting Point: Oso Trailhead
Description: This out-and-back adventure takes you to the top of Camino Cielo Ridge, offering stunning views of the Channel Islands and Matilija Canyon. Along the way, participants will observe clear ecological changes in plant and bird species as the elevation increases.
Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
January 25, 2025
Hike: Horn Canyon to Pines Campground (Out and Back)
Distance: 6 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,002 ft
Starting/Meeting Point: McAndrew Rd Trailhead
Description: Starting from McAndrew Rd, this hike passes through the side of Thatcher School and ascends to the Pines Campground, where we will enjoy lunch before heading back.
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM