Ramona Grasslands County Preserve sits in the Santa Maria Valley between scenic coastal mesas and the rocky outcrops of the peninsula mountain ranges. Hikers, cyclists and equestrians alike can explore this 3,521-acre preserve.
The Mt. Woodson trailhead is located on the east side of Lake Poway. Beginning from the Lake Poway Staging area, the hike to the Mt. Woodson Summit is an extremely challenging 2,000 foot climb in elevation. This 8 mile round trip hike may take 3 to 4 hours on average.
The surrounding ranchland and steep rocky slopes help preserve its secluded atmosphere. Dos Picos is home to many plants and animals. Coyote, fox, possum, skunk, and raccoon are all seen in the park. Look up to the sky to view birds like great blue herons, egrets, ducks, red-shouldered hawks, woodpeckers and western bluebirds.
Ideal for nature lovers, the preserve is host to a myriad of natural diverse ecosystems consisting of southern coast live oak riparian forest, southern willow scrub, freshwater seep, riparian scrub, open water, open Engelmann oak woodland, coast live oak woodland, wildflower fields, Diegan coastal sage scrub.
Cedar Creek Falls Trailhead is a challenging six mile out-and-back trail offering much in the way of scenery and great exercise with a spectacular plunging waterfall and natural watering hole as a payoff at the end.
Mt. Gower County Preserve consists primarily of dense chaparral, the 1,574-acre preserve showcases peaceful oak woodlands, shaded streamside arbors, and seldom-visited meadows.
