Ilvento Preserve
The Ilvento Preserve, represents a milestone in OVLC’s growth, having been the first land acquisition for OVLC. It was donated by the Ilvento Family in 1997. An 80-acre chaparral ridge located near Thacher School in the east end of Ojai Valley, the preserve is host to diverse native plant communities and important wildlife corridors.
A hiker on the Preserve is likely to encounter at least 150 plant species and a variety of wildlife including, deer, bear, mountain lion and bobcat. Fern grottos, brilliant wildflower displays are a highlight each spring. Coast live oak forests, coastal ash, toyon and several species of sage are found throughout the property. The dramatic topographical relief features a high point of 2,024 feet with breathtaking views of the Ojai and Upper Ojai Valleys, as well as Topa Topa Mountain and Chief Peak.
80% of the Preserve burned during the Ranch Fire in 1999, however the recovery has been steady during the last several years, including brilliant spring wildflower displays.
The priority for this preserve is to maintain its pristine natural habitat. Though the preserve is open for public access, it is somewhat difficult to find, which is ultimately a benefit to its preservation, as it sees very few visitors. The Conservancy offers a guided walk of the Preserve each year for those who would like to visit. There are also trail clearing volunteer days held occasionally, which anyone with a good pair of loppers is welcome to join us on. Be sure to watch our calendar for hikes and volunteer days.
Getting there…
A guided hike is offered each spring, as the preserve is difficult to find. The next hike is scheduled for Saturday, March 13, 2010. See the events page for more info. If you would like to venture to the Ilvento Preserve on your own, it is located in the east end of the Ojai Valley. A two mile unmaintained loop trail is accessible from Thacher School near the Gymkhana Field. Access is through the Thacher School Campus and just east of the Horn Canyon Trailhead. To get to Horn Canyon Trailhead, take Highway 150 (Ojai Ave.) east through the city of Ojai. Once outside town, turn left on Reeves road. Follow Reeves about a mile to McAndrew Road and make another left, following the signs to Thatcher School. Another mile up the road, take the road into the school grounds. Stay to the right and follow the signs to the gymkhana field. Park near the fire gate at the trailhead. (Lat:34.46282 Lon:-119.17779)
