Discover Outside is the Land Trust for Santa Barbara County’s annual week of free outdoor programs, created to connect people with local landscapes, community partners, and the natural places we work together to protect.
Throughout the week, participants are invited to join guided walks, educational outings, and outdoor experiences that highlight the ecology, history, and stewardship of Santa Barbara County’s open spaces. Whether you’re discovering a new place or returning to a familiar trail, this series offers meaningful ways to deepen your connection to the land.
Sunset Tour of Coronado Butterfly Preserve and Ellwood
Tuesday, July 21 • 5:30-7:30 PM • Goleta
During this experience, you’ll learn the conservation history of Coronado Butterfly Preserve (CBP) and how it became known as the “gateway to Ellwood Mesa”. Our docent, Craig Wakamiya, was involved in Friends of the Ellwood Coast, the community organization that worked with the Land Trust to help preserve CBP back in the ’90s. He has a wealth of knowledge to share about the preserve, bluffs, and the wildlife that inhabit the area.
Morning Walk at Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve
Wednesday, July 22 • 10:00 AM-12:00 PM • Carpinteria
We’ll enjoy scenic views of the mountains and ocean while learning about the collaborative efforts between the Land Trust and community groups to save this beautiful stretch of coastline from development. You’ll also learn about the plants that are unique to this coastal habitat, including California sagebrush, Deerweed, Lemonade Berry, and more! This walk will be led by Alison Petro, Associate Director of Natural Resources for the Land Trust, and Ann Lippincott, one of our Board members and volunteer docents! We’re excited for you to get to know them – feel free to ask questions about our other projects around the county.
Nature Walk Exploring Orcutt Community Park
Thursday, July 23 • 6:00-7:30 PM • Orcutt
Orcutt Community Park is a beautiful natural open space featuring oak woodlands, manzanita groves, and maritime chapparal. It provides trail access into preserved spaces – serving as a refuge for locals to enjoy nature and outdoor recreation. This walk highlights the revitalization project our community partners in Santa Maria have been working on since the beginning of this year.
Tucker’s Trek: A Ramble Along San Antonio Creek
Friday, July 24 • 9:30 AM-12:00 PM • Santa Barbara
During this 3-mile round trip walk, we’ll explore the shaded woodland path along the creekside. The well-shaded trail winds through a natural wooded setting, including 2 or 3 stream crossings and some boulder hopping. The trail is mostly flat with a few gentle inclines. We will make stops along the way to learn about the wildlife and plants that inhabit this shady riparian habitat.
Mindfulness Walk at Arroyo Hondo Preserve
Saturday, July 25 • 10:00 AM-12:00 PM • Gaviota
Stop and smell the sage, listen to the wind and water, and feel the softness of “nature’s baby blankets”. On this slow paced, 2-mile round trip tour, we’ll utilize our senses to engage with nature in a more tangible way. This tour invites you to connect deeply with nature and experience the calming benefits of mindful walking in a serene natural setting. Take a break from the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and peaceful atmosphere of the preserve.
Space is limited and advance registration is required. View the full details and register at sblandtrust.org/discover-outside.
