Ventura preserve opens with new trail, wildflowers in bloom

The Ventura Land Trust purchased the property – that was once eyed for housing – several years ago and promised to preserve the 1,645 acres in perpetuity. Formerly called Mariano Rancho, the spot off Hall Canyon Road is now named the Ventura Hills Nature Preserve, stretching from the botanical gardens behind City Hall to the iconic Two Trees.

Hikers walk along Trail 101 at the Ventura Hills Nature Preserve on March 5. The Ventura Land Trust recently opened the preserve that sits above Ventura’s downtown and midtown neighborhoods

On March 5, supporters gathered with city officials and the land trust's staff and volunteers at the main trailhead. A new trail winds uphill from the spot, through patches thick with yellow and white wildflowers.

Ventura City Councilmember Doug Halter lauded the work to preserve local areas, from coastal areas to the hillsides, saying it improves quality of life and can help build community.

"We are creating a phenomenal future," Halter told the crowd on Thursday.

Miles of old access roads and trails already existed on the property that has 360-degree views above the city and out to the Channel Islands. Some stayed, but minor changes were made and others still could be on the way.

Views are spectacular off Trail 101, said Dan Hulst, deputy director of the Ventura Land Trust. One of the new additions, the dirt path curves up from the parking lot. After a short but steep stretch, trail-goers can see views, including of the Santa Barbara Channel offshore.

"The ecology is incredible," Hulst said. "There are plants and animals out here that are really special."

Melissa Baffa, the land trust's executive director, talked about surveys done at the Ventura Hills and nearby Harmon Canyon, a popular preserve off Foothill Road also managed by the land trust.

Together, the preserves include thousands of acres of coastal sage scrub, more than 300 plant species, 175 native birds and other wildlife, from western burrowing owls to an endangered bumblebee.

A community celebration at Ventura Hills preserve will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 7 at the trailhead, 2805 Hall Canyon Road. The organization's staff and volunteers will be on hand to share information, including about upcoming trail plans.

Ventura Hills generally is open from dawn to dusk, seven days a week. More information is available at venturalandtrust.org/ventura-hills-nature-preserve.