Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve

The UC Davis Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve is set in a steep inland canyon of the California Coast Range. Extreme topography gives the reserve a mix of habitats, high species diversity, and beautiful views. An intense wildfire burned the entire reserve in summer of 2015; University of California researchers are studying the recovery in the area.

Read about the reserve in the New York Times!

The University of California maintains the site as an ecological preserve for teaching and research. Public visitors are invited to use the trail network that crosses the reserve, but we ask that you carefully respect all trail rules.

Before beginning research or bringing a class group to the reserve, please fill out a use application. In most cases, your application will be processed within one business day.

Hikers, please note:

dogs are not allowed on trails
trails are open daily sunrise to sunset, except…
trails are CLOSED during and after heavy rain or wind events, during “red flag” fire conditions, and when Cold Creek has a high volume of flow in winter/spring (entry and stream crossings are impassable at those times). In general, we recommend against hiking during the hotter months of the year, for health issues (dehydration) and wildfire safety
no water available; a portable toilet is located in the lower parking area
parking only in designated areas

Additional Information

Activities

Hiking

Rules & Regulations

No Dogs

Trail Rules

Stay on trails.
No dogs on trails.
Pack out everything you bring in – leave no waste.
Do not collect plants, animals or other organisms.
Do not disturb research sites or restoration areas (indicated by colored tape, flags, or signs).
No mountain bikes, guns, or campfires.

Hours of Operation

Trails are open to hikers year-round from sunrise to sunset.

Stay Safe

Trails are rough, steep and strenuous. Some areas have cliffs and steep drop-offs; never allow children to run ahead unsupervised. Stay off of legacy trails that are not signed and on the map; these are unmaintained and potentially hazardous. Wear proper footgear.
Avoid heat exhaustion and stroke – drink plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun. Avoid hiking in hot weather. No water is available on site.
Avoid hiking during periods of high fire danger. Fires move very quickly on scrub-covered slopes. Wildfires can happen at any time, but warm days from May-October are highest risk (Cal Fire updates here).
Fire-damaged trees may be weakened; stay away from damaged trees and avoid the area on windy days.
Do not attempt creek crossings during periods of high water.
Rattlesnakes are common in rocky areas of the reserve. Watch your step, and look before sitting!
Poison oak grows thickly along the trail; stay on the trail, and avoid brushing up against leaves and bare branches.
Ticks are potential disease carriers. Stay on the trail, wear long pants and inspect and wash yourself after your hike.
Mountain lions are active in the area. Hike with a partner, and keep children in sight.
Avoid contact with rodents or their nests or droppings, as they may be carriers of Hantavirus.
Hunting may occur on neighboring lands: danger of stray bullets.