Post Election Stress Reduction Hike

Let's get together outside, take a collective breath, and relax. What better way to relieve some stress than enjoying an easy hike with friends through the beautiful 230 acre Ellwood Mesa Preserve. And then afterwards go across the highway to the Timbers Roadhouse for lunch.

Ellwood Mesa Open Space Preserve in Goleta offers scenic coastal views, diverse wildlife, and a network of trails for hiking and biking. The preserve features Eucalyptus groves, coastal sage scrub, grasslands, and habitats for birds and other wildlife. It is also home of the Monarch Butterfly Habitat.

There is currently preservation work going on within the butterfly grove including trail work, erosion control, and wildfire risk reduction. Please respect all detour signs to ensure everyone's safety. Watch for large branches that pose a risk of falling. Eroded bluffs and trails are a part of the beauty of Ellwood Mesa. Stay on trails and avoid the bluff edge. Stay off closed trails and out of work zones.

The hike starts at the parking lot and heads down towards the bluffs. We'll then walk along the bluffs, eventually make our way up towards the butterfly groves and follow them back to our starting point. Please be sure to bring water, sun protection, layered clothing, and good footwear. Carpooling is encouraged. Lunch afterwards.
Distance ~3.2 miles; 1.5-2 hours; ~50 feet of elevation

Ellwood Mesa Open Space & Sperling Preserve
7729 Hollister Ave, Goleta, CA 93117

The park sign as you drive in reads: Santa Barbara Shores Park & Sperling Preserve at Ellwood Mesa

Timbers Roadhouse, 10 Winchester Canyon Rd, Goleta, CA 93117

Hike Leader: Chris Curry

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