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KAYAKING AT LAKE CASITAS

Just a few miles from The Oaks is the lovely Lake Casitas!  (did you know that the 1984 Summer Olympics rowing events were held here?)  Nestled near the Los Padres National Forest, this lake is a gem in our own backyard.   Our experienced guide, Oatley Kidder will drive you to the lake, help you rent your kayak and give you the safety tips you need to launch yourself into bliss! 

Currently, Oatley is leading these excursions on Tuesday mornings at 8:30.  

There is an $80 fee for this activity - but bring a friend and we drop the price! 

2 People for $45 each.

3 People for $40 each...and so on.

This fee includes transportation to the lake, safety and instruction.

Kayak rental fee is paid directly to Lake Casitas.  $15 Single $20 Double

Hiking at The Oaks

The Ojai Valley, nestled in the Los Padres National forest, is a vast playground for the hiker, both beginners and advanced. With a wide variety of beautiful and scenic trails, varying in all degrees of challenge, there is an opportunity for everyone to experience nature at its best. 

The Olive and Art Tour is really popular!  Enjoy a wonderful afternoon visiting some incredible characters of The Ojai Valley. We start at the family olive farm of Ron and Alice Asquith. We learn about the different olives, how the oil is made and best of all taste each kind of award winning olive oil (Top 50 in the world!)! We then visit an associate of the late famous Otto Heino, the 94 year old potter legend who was offered ONE BILLION dollars for his secret yellow glaze recipe by China but refused. See a demonstration and listen to stories that are sure to warm your heart. Next, to visit Larry Carnes, part Native American sculptor whose art reflects his love and appreciation for nature and Native Americans. A completely magical afternoon.

The next busiest event is The Spirit Garden Walk
Experience one of Ojai's greatest treasures-THE WALK. This fourteen station walk is based in the woods along the foothills in Ojai. Privately owned and created by two of Ojai's finest artist, it is an immersive, contemplative walk in the woods that blends nature, art and spirit. A true reflective and magical experience unlike any other in the world.

These next hikes require a sense of adventure (and some hiking experience)... The Piedra Blanca Trail - 7 mrt (miles round trip). This is a magical hike through the white rocks of the sacred Chumash Indian grounds. A diverse trail with rocks, valleys, rivers and natural beauty rich in history and landscape. Starting elevation is at 4500 feet with some steep but short hills, rolling hills and valley trails along the river where we stop at a campground with some fading petroglyphs of the Chumash. This hike is food for your spirit, body and mind. One of our guides favorites. Options are up to 14 miles on this hike. Easy to moderate for 7 mile trail. Advanced on 14 mile trail.

The Sespe River Trail - 9.5 mrt - starting elevation 4500 feet.
Experience the wonder of the wilderness along the trails of the Sespe River in Rose Valley. Trek across 5 rivers and along the edge and cliffs of the Sespe River for 4.6 miles to the sandy mountain beach of Bear Creek. This wonderful camp is located on a large sandbar with many rock outcroppings and situated under large trees that provide plenty of shade. Picnic on the rocks in the river or enjoy a swim in warmer weather.  This is a delight among many of our hikers. Trails are well groomed with easy to moderate hills. The quietness of the Wilderness at this elevation of 4,000 feet will stay in your heart for days to follow.

Horn Canyon Trail - 6.3 mrt For those who like to get the job done in a quick way! This is a 6 mrt hike with a 3000 foot elevation gain in the first three miles. Crossing creeks and heading uphill in the beautiful mountains to the pine forest where we rest and eat before heading back down. Close to the Oaks, great for endurance and strength.

Matilija Canyon Waterfalls - 8 to 10 mrt An adventurous and challenging hike to several waterfalls in the Matilija Canyon. This hike is one of the best if you love to jump into a river, slide down a natural rock slide, bath in the falls, or simply just view all the marvels of the canyon walls and geological formations. Many natural ungroomed trails require balance and stability. A must for the most adventurous and spirited souls!

Nordhoff Peak - 15 mrt A challenging beautiful hike to the Fire tower on Nordhoff Peak. A 3500 foot elevation gain over a 7.5 mile upward trail and then a loop back down. Incredible views of the Ojai valley, Rose Valley , the ocean and the many Islands. Second option is to hike up the 7.5 miles but be driven back down in a 4x4 on an old fire road on the backside of the mountain.

Check the schedule of guided events after you arrive, or secure your preferred route for that perfect time by contacting your guide, Carol, in advance.  hikingwithcarol@gmail.com

Bicycling Tours

We supply water & snacks. We supply all equipment for our activities (bikes, helmets, gloves, harnesses, climbing shoes, etc.)

Ventura to the Beach - Suited for intermediate levels. Approx. 2 hrs; 16 miles
You will take the scenic Ventura Bike Path to the beach, stopping halfway for a snack and restroom break. Bring change for a coffee at The Bad Ass Coffee Co. Transportation back to The Oaks.

Orchard Ride - Suited for intermediate levels. Approx. 1.5 hrs; 7-9 miles You will ride through the Orange Groves in Ojai. You will stop halfway for a snack and continue through the flat, lush green floor while the majestic Topa Topa Buffs stretch above you.

Winery/Foster Park Ride - Suited for intermediate levels. Approx. 1 hr; 9 miles
You will ride along the scenic Ojai Bike Trail. Break provided for water, snacks and a restroom break. Group will be taken by van to Oak Creek Winery for tasting.
* A Winery tour can be added for an additional charge. Available to ages 11 and up. Maximum of 8 people at one time.

You can book your biking during or after you arrive or plan in advance by contacting Ian and Stacy Potter: 805.646.0382 email: ojaipotter@aol.com or www.hikingojai.com .

Guided Rock Climbing

Minimum activity time 3 hrs, normally 4 hrs plus. No prior experience needed. There's rapelling & top rope climbing. For guests with 2 years outdoor experience, we offer Traditional lead climbing (but we'll need to review these details together first!)
Maximum of 5 people may be scheduled at any time during daylight, however, morning activities are recommended during the summer months.
* Weight limit for rock climbing of 220lbs 

What to Bring: Hat & sunscreen

You can book your climbing lesson  during or after you arrive or plan in advance by contacting Ian and Stacy Potter: 805.646.0382 email: ojaipotter@aol.com or www.hikingojai.com .

The Oaks at Ojai Healthy Holiday Travel Shop Spa Products Email Offers Press Podcast