Ethnobotany- Native Plant Cultural Experience

This trail is a well-kept secret! Offering a peaceful and shaded hike, nestled in the Cold Creek Watershed of the Santa Monica Mountains!

UCLA Stunt Ranch – Santa Monica Mountain Reserve is 310 acers of unique and beautifully protected habitats of: Chaparral, Oak Woodlands, Riparian and Native Grasslands.

This reserve hosts a few archeological sites with evidence of Chumash inhabitants dating back thousands of years. We’ll explores a few hidden grinding stones, identify, and learn how these plants were used as food and medicine by the Chumash people. 

Along the way we’ll discuss some of their tools, musical instruments, food and spiritually customs of this amazing and lost culture.

What to Expect on This Hike

The hike is approximately 3 miles, 95% downhill – (everyone will be shuttled back up to the top after the hike) 85% shaded, with some loose footing in areas, single track trail, a few fallen trees to climb over and a couple of dry creek crossing (no water).