North Campus Open Space, Ellwood Forest Park & Deverux Beach loop

Parking is generally available at various access points around the Ellwood Devereux Open Space, including near the North Campus Open Space and Ellwood Forest Park. Specific parking details can vary, so it's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails within the Ellwood Devereux Open Space, including this loop. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

The loop offers beautiful scenery year-round. However, for a unique experience, consider visiting between November and February when the Ellwood Mesa portion of the trail becomes home to thousands of monarch butterflies, making it a spectacular sight.

No, there are typically no permits required or entrance fees to access the trails within the Ellwood Devereux Open Space, including the North Campus Open Space, Ellwood Forest Park, and Devereux Beach areas. These areas are generally open to the public for recreational use.

The terrain is diverse, ranging from easy to moderate. You'll encounter wide, packed earth trails ideal for running, especially on the Ellwood Mesa. However, some sections, particularly those leading to Devereux Beach from the bluffs, can be steeper and more rugged dirt paths. The North Campus Open Space also features dirt trails with some hills, and you might find packed sand along the beach.

This loop offers a rich variety of scenery, from restored wetlands and native plants in the North Campus Open Space, where you might spot snowy plovers and burrowing owls, to the eucalyptus groves of Elwood Forest Park. The clifftop trails provide stunning ocean views, leading down to the expansive Devereux Beach. During winter months, the monarch butterfly preserve on Ellwood Mesa is a major highlight.

Yes, this extensive loop is part of a larger interconnected trail system. It includes sections of the California Mission Trail - stage 07 Mission Santa Barbara to Mission Santa Inés, the Coast Bicycle Route, and various local paths like Marsh Trail East, Marsh Trail North, and Elkus Walk, offering many options for extended exploration.

Given its moderate difficulty and varied terrain, including some steep and rugged sections, beginner joggers should be prepared for a challenge. While much of the Ellwood Mesa is flat, the overall length and diverse surfaces mean it's best suited for those with some jogging experience or who are comfortable with longer distances.

For this loop, it's recommended to bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days, as there are no water sources directly on the trail. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is advisable due to exposed sections, and appropriate jogging shoes suitable for varied terrain (dirt, sand, potentially uneven paths) are a must.

After rain, some trails on Ellwood Mesa, which were originally informal, can experience erosion or ponding. This may lead to uneven or muddy terrain in certain areas. It's advisable to wear appropriate footwear and be mindful of potentially slippery or soft ground conditions.

Key highlights include the restored wetlands and diverse habitats of the North Campus Open Space, the majestic eucalyptus groves and monarch butterfly preserve (seasonal) in Elwood Forest Park, and the expansive, scenic Devereux Beach with its coastal bluffs and ocean views.