Coronado Butterfly Preserve Map

Hike suggested by: Robert Hull, 49, Thousand Oaks.

Hiking distance: 1 to 5 miles.

Hiking time: 1 to 3 hours.

Highlights: The Coronado Butterfly Preserve is the gateway to Ellwood Main Monarch Grove, one of the largest Monarch butterfly over-wintering groves in California. The preserve and surrounding area is home to native coastal sage scrub habitat, eucalyptus groves and numerous birds, including Great Egrets, Turkey Vultures, hawks and black birds, as well as other wildlife throughout the woodlands, meadows, creeks and the mesa. Great coastal views from the bluffs and all trails are kid friendly, except after heavy rains. The best time for viewing the Monarch butterfly is December through February, but they begin arriving as early as October and are usually gone by the end of March. However, this is a great place for family hikes all year round.

Elevation gain/loss: Mostly level, some short, slight inclines.

Difficulty: Easy.

Signs: Signs marking the preserves, but trails are not marked or named.

Spurs: Trails going off in all directions.

Dogs: Leashed canines are permitted on trails.

Drinking fountains and picnic tables: No drinking fountains or tables, however, there are log benches in the group gathering area near the start.

Restrooms: None.

Directions to trailhead: From Highway 33 in Ventura, travel 38.2 miles northwest on Highway 101 and exit Storke Road/Glen Annie Road in Goleta. At the top of the off ramp, turn left and head south for 0.4 mile and turn right on Hollister Avenue. Drive 1.1 miles and turn left on Coronado Drive and park 0.3 mile down on the right.

Hiking directions: From the parking area, you're immediately in the Coronado Preserve, the Ellwood Main Preserve is 0.25 mile away and the bluffs above the ocean are 0.5 mile away. There are many trails going in every direction and all are worth exploring. Refer to the map for the main trails and locations of the different areas, but be advised there are also many minor trails linking the main trails. You can go as far, and for as long, as you like.

ROBERT HULL

Occupation: Software engineer

Number of years hiking: 35

Favorite type of hike: Anything with a great view 

How often: Once a week

Favorite area to hike in: Santa Monica and Santa Cruz Mountains

Distance preferred: 10 to 12 miles

Have a favorite hike not listed on VenturaCountyStar.com? E-mail Gary Phelps: gphelps@VenturaCountyStar.com