Welcome to Art in Nature!
We are Nature Sketchers!
Things to know!
The art supplies you should always bring are: a fine-line pen, mixed-media sketchbook, and a watercolor set, water, a towel and a good size binder clip or two! Please see the recommended materials list.
From the parking lot at the south end of Stevens Park, the route heads north and climbs into the hills. It follows the San Roque Creek, travels below Foothill Road, and passes the Lauro Reservoir.
Set amidst acres of wilderness flanked by the picturesque Santa Ynez and San Rafael Mountains, lies glimmering Cachuma Lake. Our route will take us along the edge of the lake, offering great lakeside views along the entire way.
*Look for the turnoff for Vista Point (also known as the Bradbury Dam Observation Point / Dam Overlook)
Park at Bradbury Dam Overlook off of San Marcos Pass (Hwy 154)
We will park at the Bradbury Dam Overlook and meet at the restroom facility. Our route will take us along the Sweetwater trail almost to Cachuma campsite before heading back. (about 4 mile r/t)
Hiking paths & ocean views feature at this park with 70 acres of native trees & plants.
3003 Cliff Dr., Santa Barbara, CA
The Ellwood Forest Park Loop meanders through a compact dirt trail. As you progress, you'll be rewarded with beautiful vistas of the beach, cliffs, and surrounding mountains. The trail includes a wide, flat meadow and follows the edge of the bluffs overlooking the ocean. Along the way, you can enjoy a range of flora and fauna. (2.1 miles)
Located at 3250 Alisal Road. Parking and access are free, and it's recommended to view the falls in the winter and spring for the best water flow.
The North Campus Open Space is a restoration project protecting the upper arms of the Devereux Slough. It is a habitat for birds, fish, and wildlife, and a small network of trails allows the public to enjoy hiking and running in the scenic wetland area. Take caution during the short road walk along Venoco Road, and be sure to stop at the Cheadle Overlook.
It's perfect for running with lots of gradual ups and downs. There are both sunny or shady sections depending on where you are on the mountain
This 500-ft long, 6-ft wide hard-packed trail leads from the parking lot gently down to the beach. Once on the beach, you can walk for 7 miles to the east at low tide. There is also a short trail up the west side of the bluff to the east to a very nice overlook.
This beautiful trail features lots of great vistas to stop at for a break or a picnic, complete with benches and tables. There is beautiful vegetation along the way and the smell of sage.
The terrain is primarily hard-packed dirt, which can be slippery on the downhills after rain. You'll follow a fire trail on the way back on this counter-clockwise loop. There are lots of smaller trails in Parma Park that can be added to increase the distance. Be aware of ticks in the area.
