The Burton Mesa Ecological Reserve is located in Lompoc, California. This ecological reserve is known for its unique and diverse habitats that provide a haven for various plant and animal species. One of the notable features of the Burton Mesa Ecological Reserve is its vernal pools. These seasonal pools support a range of specialized plant and animal life, including rare and endangered species. The reserve is home to several plant communities, such as oak woodlands and maritime chaparral, contributing to its ecological significance. Visitors to the Burton Mesa Ecological Reserve may find opportunities for hiking and nature observation. The reserve ...

Located 20 minutes from Lompoc, the Gaviota Peak Trail offers pristine ocean views from it's 2,458-foot peak.  The added bonus? Take a dip in the natural milky blue pools of Gaviota Hot Springs! The main trail is 6-mile round trip while the scenic Trespass Trail is a tremendously scenic 6.5-mile loop with 2,150 feet of elevation gain. The  main trailhead is just off Highway 101 in Gaviota State Park. The trail begins at the fire road and junctions at Trespass Trail where you can head left or right to hike toward the peak. Tresspass trail offers the more challenging and ...

The highly rated Point Sal Overlook trail in Point Sal Beach State Park is a 10 mile round trip hike with breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean below. The combination of well-maintained paved fire and dirt road is surrounded by seasonal wildflowers with soaring wildlife like hawk and sea sponges, seals and other marine wildlife near the beach. Point Sal Overlook is perfect for hikers ready for a challenge. The trail is rated as moderately difficult with very gradual gains in elevation and incline. Once at the end of the overlook, turn right at the trail end onto the beach ...

Ranked the #1 hike in Lompoc, Bodger Trail (also known as Lookout Point) is only a 5 minute drive from downtown Lompoc a local favorite that boasts expansive, panoramic views of the Lompoc Valley. Hike through the lush valley with abundant seasonal wildflowers, greenery and wildlife. Once you arrive, you'll enjoy almost 130 degree views of the valley floor below. The trail is steep but lightly traveled and well worth the 1.5 mile round trip!

At first glance, Nojoqui Falls County Park (pronounced na-hoo-ui) near Lompoc looks like your average city park with sports fields, barbeque grills and group picnic areas. But tucked away toward the back of this park is a local secret – a 100-foot waterfall that tumbles down from high cliffs into a natural pool. Hike the short 15 minute trail to see one of Santa Barbara County’s few year round waterfalls – an easy stroll for all ages. Open 8 am to sunset View Map

Get your history lesson, and take a hike, too! La Purisima is home to 25 miles of hiking trails over 2,000 acres, connecting to the back country. Most of the trails are sandy and lead through a mix of chaparral and oak and are home to a healthy population of wildlife. The Vista Del La Cruz Trail starts right behind the Visitor’s Center and leads up to the cross on the hill overlooking the Mission, about a half mile round trip. Dogs allowed. Gate entrance fee. Open daily MORE ON MISSION