Guided Nature Hikes
Torrey Pines State Preserve
This spectacular Reserve gets its name from the beautiful Torrey Pines, the rare trees that grow atop the coastal bluffs overlooking miles of beach and the majestic Pacific Ocean. Over 300 other species of trees are found in this botanical paradise.



The dramatic sandstone formations and breathtaking views create a splendid hiking experience for all abilities.

The park features three distinct trails, ranging from one to three hours and from moderate to difficult. Larger groups can choose between two trails. Springtime can bring a brilliant array of wildflowers, while winter visitors may see dolphins or grey whales from the ocean overlooks. For those who wish, it is possible to descend to the beach and even explore the tidepools.

Penasquitos Canyon
Get out of the office or meeting room and breathe the fresh air and soak up the sun on a leisurely hike through Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve, one of the few remaining open protected areas in San Diego County. This secluded canyon was once home to the Kumeyaay Indians, with its creek and artesian springs as well as an abundance of California live oaks. Later it was the site of an adobe ranch house and cattle ranch and many reminders of this time still remain.

The canyon is home to over 500 plant species, more than 175 types of birds, and a variety of other animals including mule deer and bobcats. Many of the species are are rare or endangered and are protected within the Preserve. Your hike will be geared to the ability of the group and will be led by a knowlegeable guide familiar with this beautiful area. Total distance will be approximately 3 to 4 miles round trip and difficulty is moderate. Group will hike to a beautiful waterfall, through wooded creek areas, and back to open terrain.

Blue Sky Ecological Reserve
Blue Sky Reserve is a 700 acre oak-lined canyon flanked by coastal sage scrub and chaparral-covered hills in Poway.  The reserve is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.  The hiking trails are easy to moderate and can be adjusted for any group.  The reserve is a short 5 mile ride from the Rancho Bernardo Inn.

Blue Sky Ecological Reserve is one of 119 ecological reserves of the California Department of Fish and Game. The primary use of the Reserve is habitat conservation.  It is one of the jewels of the reserve system, with a full time naturalist on duty.

San Elijo Lagoon
A wealth of natural resources and spectacular views make this lagoon a favorite of hiker, joggers, birdwatchers and nature photographers.

San Elijo Lagoon is one of San Diego County's largest coastal wetlands. It lies along the coast between the cities of Solana Beach and Encinitas, extending inland to the community of Rancho Santa Fe. It is fed by a 77 square mile watershed with two main tributaries, Escondido Creek and Orilla Creek. The reserve encompasses approximately 900 acres of diverse habitat with six plant communities: coastal strand, salt marsh, freshwater marsh, riparian scrub, coastal sage scrub, and mixed chaparral.
This mosaic of habitats supports:

• over 300 species of plants
• over 20 species of fish
• over 20 species of reptiles and amphibians
• 24 species of mammals
• over 295 species of birds
• 65 nesting bird species