Only four more tours into a pristine section of the Ramona Grasslands Preserve that’s normally closed to the public are left until the area needs to be shut down again, the county of San Diego announced Tuesday.
Docents will lead six-mile, three-hour tours into the northwest section of the preserve, which is normally off-limits because of its ecologically sensitive habitats. Currently, only 480 of the park’s 3,500 or so acres are open to the public.
The excursions on horseback, bicycles and foot give visitors a look at the terrain, plants and wildlife along Santa Maria Creek as it winds through non-public section of the property. At the end of the trail, visitors can take in views of Bandy Canyon and San Pasqual Valley.
The county opened its first trail — a four-mile loop through grassland, chaparral and oak woodlands — in June 2011. The hike includes a pond near massive oak trees and expansive views into the Ramona Valley.
Equestrian rides are scheduled for Saturday and Jan. 23. Bicyclists will be taken through the area Jan. 2 and hikers on Jan. 9.
The tours will be limited to 15 horse riders, 15 bicyclists and 25 walkers.
Participants are encouraged to bring water and sunscreen, be dressed for the weather conditions and be aware there are no restrooms on the trail.
Reservations are available online at reservations.sdparks.org or by calling (858) 565-3600.
The tours are scheduled to resume in September.
