Insider Tips

Top 5 Outdoor Wellness Activities In Conejo Valley

Posted on January 13, 2023 by Conejo Valley

It feels good to live well. That’s definitely Conejo Valley’s easy going nature – one we’re proud of. With predominately beautiful weather and peaceful sights, it’s so rewarding to come, relax and recharge mentally, physically and spiritually here. Read on for the best spots to take it in and then let it all go in Conejo Valley.

HIKING TRAILS

Photo: Danielson Monument

With the Santa Monica Mountains at our door, there are several trails well worth the hike. Danielson Monument Trail is 8.8 miles out and back and starts at Newbury Park. It’s one of our more popular trails, so if you’re hoping for some solo moments, it’s best to start early. Dogs aren’t allowed on this one.

You might also consider Hillcrest Ridge Trail at 4.7 miles out and back, which starts near Thousand Oaks. It’s moderate as well and takes about 3 hours to complete. This one’s a popular trail for hiking and running, and dogs are also welcome on a leash.

For the best mountain views, head to the Mishe Mokwa Trail, which takes you to Tri-Peaks and Sandstone Peak. Beginning in Malibu, this 6.8-mile loop trail Is popular for bird watching, camping and hiking. It offers some of the most beautiful views and allows dogs on a leash. You may come across rock climbers taking advantage of the impressive cliffs here as well.

Our Pick: Sandstone Peak is the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains and well worth the climb. The full loop hike offers view of large rock formations (you can see people scaling the cliffs on occasion) to sweeping ocean views on a clear day.

HORSEBACK RIDING

Photo: @maliburiders

Horseback riding is a love we can’t deny, and Conejo Valley is made for it. Rancho Potrero Community Equestrian Center has the advantage of being right next to Rancho Sierra Vista National Park in the Satwiwa Native American Indian Culture Center, which gives them easy access to some beautiful trails. In addition to lessons and summer camps, they offer hourly rides for groups of up to five people ages seven years and up. You can schedule trail rides on Fridays at 4 PM and 5:30 PM and Saturdays and Sundays at 9am and 10:30am.

We also love Malibu Riders for their uniquely breathtaking trails. Their Paramount Ranch in Agoura Hills ride offers a one-hour trip on a 3-mile loop with views of a beautiful forest. Additionally, they host a Malibu Creek ride through 20^th Century Fox Ranch, featuring the filming locations of shows and movies like M*A*S*H, Planet of the Apes and Daniel Boone.

Our Pick: All options will give you a great ride – but views of Paramount Ranch will take you to other times and worlds like that of Westworld.

PICK-YOUR-OWN FARM

Photo: @UnderwoodFamilyFarms

There are few things as grounding as digging around and getting your hands in the soil. Head to Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark for a true farm experience everyone can get into. You can pick your own fruits and vegetables and shop in the farmers market for the freshest produce, jarred items, snacks and a cool drink. They also offer educational farm tours and have a farm animal center with displays, pony rides, activities, and games. Children under two are free; seniors, military, veterans, and first responders receive a discount. Go on the weekend to take advantage of their tractor-drawn wagon rides and animal show.

Our Pick: The produce; we totally go for the produce. Whether we pick our own or just grab it from their market, we’re all in. Peak times are during the harvest season when there are special fall events, so we suggest exploring during the spring or summer, too.

BOTANICAL GARDEN

Photo: @Conejo-Botanical-Garden

Let nature bathe your senses in the peaceful Conejo Valley Botanic Garden. You’re welcome to wander as you please and rest or even meditate in the garden. They also do tours where you can learn about the interaction between humans and nature and the various plants there.

Our Pick: There are nine different areas to choose from but we recommend relaxing among the peaceful chirping in the Bird Habitat, experiencing the aroma of the Rare Fruit Orchard or enjoying a quiet stroll amongst the Trail of Trees.

GOAT YOGA

Photo: @thecabrafarmhouse

Of course we have goat yoga, too. It wouldn’t be Southern California if we didn’t. Cabra Farmhouse does it well. It’s just the right combination of cute goats, yoga and nature that you need to help you reach that Zen moment. You can also pick up a variety of goat milk skincare products while you’re there.

Our Pick: Get an overdose of cuteness with their kids (baby goats) and baby mini donkey. We find early mornings the most therapeutic and since they are open only by appointment, you can schedule the perfect time for you.

STAY & RELAX AWAY

Putting effort into wellness definitely brings its own rewards, especially in Conejo Valley. Get away for a full recharge here for your entire well-being. Be sure to check out our full list of hotels, attractions and travel tips to make your stay as peaceful as possible.