Within the Santa Maria Valley is an open space that allows visitors to unplug, breathe deep and just “be.” Los Flores Ranch is 1,778 acres of rolling hills south of the city of Santa Maria, but world’s apart from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Hike, bike, horseback ride, eat a picnic lunch or star gaze – these are a few of the things visitors can take in.
The park offers a rare mix of environmental education, land preservation and recreation, with about 15 miles of hiking/equestrian/mountain biking trails.
On the second Saturday of the month, from 9:00-11:00 a.m., you can start the day with the Coastal Live Oak trees, plants and animals of the park. Each month offers different features with the changing seasons. Dogs are allowed on a leash. Just meet at the Visitor Center at 6271 Dominion Road (must provide own transportation).
Free Outside in Nature Play Days
On the third Saturday of the month between March and November, from 8:30 a.m.-noon, you and your family will enjoy outdoor education about wild and domestic animals and unique plant species in an interactive learning environment. Activities include interpretive nature walks, hands-on projects, guest speakers, orienteering, geocaching and more. Free transportation is available from Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center located at 600 S. McClelland St. in Santa Maria. Shuttle reservations are required.
Education programs and field trips are also available by appointment. Equestrians must call ahead at 805.938.7618, for access to the Equestrian Entrance during operating hours, or 805.925.0951 ext. 985 during non-operating hours.
Upcoming special events such as moonlight hikes, birdwatching hikes, stargazing opportunities and more can be found on their Facebook page.
Santa Maria Valley is the perfect destination and ideal home base for those looking to enjoy the history, culture and natural surroundings of California’s Central Coast. You’ll find the area nestled amongst rolling rows of produce and the foothills of Santa Barbara Wine Country. The wide variety of affordable and convenient lodging options makes it easy to access beautiful beaches by day and indulge in the iconic barbecue by night.
With 28 restaurants, 13 beaches, 6 unique AVAs, 34 tasting rooms, and a growing selection of local breweries within a beautiful 30-minute drive, you can eat, drink and do more for less. There is no need to venture out far if you are looking for sand dunes, hiking trails, horseback riding or cycling as your next adventure.
Los Flores Ranch is located at 6245 Dominion Road. From Santa Maria, head south on Highway 101. Turn left at Clark Ave. Exit, and turn right on Dominion Road.
Spring/summer hours (Daylight Savings Time schedule) is Thursday-Sunday from 8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Fall/winter hours (Standard Time schedule) is Friday-Sunday from 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Last entry into the park is one hour before closing.
For non-city residents, youth 15 years and under are free, adults 16-21 years old are $3.00 per day, seniors 62 years old and up are $1.50 per day, and an annual pass for up to 6 guests per day us $45.00. A map of the trail can be found here.
For more information, visit their website or their Facebook page.
View this dynamic interactive map to plan your next getaway to the Santa Maria Valley today.
