Wilderness Hiking and Native Plants

Each class takes place on one of our local trails and is a mix of hands-on instruction, immersive exercises, and sharing circles that allow for learning on many levels.

Participants must be able to hike 2-3 miles comfortably. For these hikes, participants will need to bring water (1-2 liters), a notebook and pen, and any snacks they may want, as well as a daypack to carry it all. You’re also welcome to bring a camera. It is recommended that guests wear long pants, hiking shoes, a hat, and bring an extra layer of clothing (to be prepared for cooler weather). If you’re sensitive to the sun, remember to bring sunscreen, as some trails are less shaded than others. For each class, participants will be sitting on the ground for a portion of the time – feel free to bring something lightweight to sit on, like a pad or extra layer.

Before each class meeting, participants will receive directions to the trailhead, a scouting report of the trail conditions, and a list of any specific items to bring.

If you have questions about the classes or need assistance with registration, please contact the registrar: registrations@sbbotanicgarden.org or 805-682-4726, ext. 102

Dates, times, and locations:

• April 15, 9AM-1PM: Reading the Landscape – Santa Ynez Mountains:
• April 22, 9AM-1PM: Nature Connection – Santa Barbara front country:
• April 29, 9AM-1PM: A Garden of Resources – Santa Barbara Botanic Garden:
• May 06, 9AM-1PM: Listening to Nature – Santa Ynez Valley:

Pricing for a series of 4 classes:

Garden Members: $100

General Public: $125

About James Wapotich:

James Wapotich is a trail guide, UC Certified California Naturalist, Volunteer Wilderness Ranger with Los Padres National Forest, and author of the Santa Barbara News-Press hiking column, Trail Quest. He leads workshops on backpacking, wilderness awareness skills, and mindfulness in nature.