Ojai is surrounded by the Topatopa Mountains and Los Padres National Forest, with sweeping views and diverse terrain that includes protected wildlands, mountain trails, oak woodlands, chaparral, creek corridors, natural hot springs, swimming holes, and expansive valley views. It is a remarkable destination for hiking, offering everything from relaxed, family-friendly walks to strenuous mountain climbs.
Natural History
Native Wildlife
If you’re lucky, the backcountry may reveal some of its native wildlife – from elusive horned lizards and roadrunners to basking pond turtles, bighorn sheep, mule deer, mountain lions, black bears, and California condors soaring high on thermals above the valley. With a wingspan reaching up to 10 feet, the California condor is the largest land bird in North America and one of the region’s most iconic inhabitants.
The Ojai Valley and surrounding Ventura County support more than 200 species of birds, making the region an important birding area in California.