Harmon Canyon Preserve FAQs

Harmon Canyon Preserve is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Check your favorite weather app for specific times. Please allow enough time to return to your vehicle before closing. The gate locks at sunset. If the gate is locked, a security company can assist with reopening for a $100 fee.

The preserve is free and open to the public, though donations are welcome to support maintenance and preservation efforts.

Harmon Canyon Preserve is located at 7511 Foothill Road, Ventura, CA. If the parking lot is full there is additional parking located on Kimball Rd.

Visitors can enjoy hiking and cycling (no e-bikes) at Harmon Canyon. The preserve is a multi-use area, so please be mindful of other visitors. Horses are not permitted on the preserve.

Yes, dogs are allowed on the preserve until the 1.5-mile marker. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to reduce impacts to wildlife, protect other visitors, and keep themselves safe.

No, there are no water stations at the preserve. Visitors are encouraged to bring plenty of water, especially during hot weather.

The trails range from easy to moderately difficult. The lower trails are relatively flat and suitable for all fitness levels, while the upper trails can be more challenging due to elevation gain.

There is a portable toilet located at the trailhead with a handwashing facility.

You can stay informed about preserve closures by visiting the Harmon Canyon page or the Preserve Updates page. You can also sign up for email notifications at the bottom of the page or follow Ventura Land Trust on Instagram or Facebook.

Yes! Ventura Land Trust offers volunteer opportunities for public access monitoring, trail maintenance, habitat restoration, and other stewardship projects. Check the volunteer page for more information.

Some lower trails are relatively flat and may be accessible for visitors with some mobility challenges, but no trails in Harmon Canyon are ADA-compliant due to the natural terrain.

Please stay on designated trails.Cyclists must use a bell, and motorized vehicles, including e-bikes, are not allowed. Pack out all trash, including dog waste, and do not disturb wildlife. Smoking is prohibited, and be sure to respect other visitors. Please see the full list of Rules and Regulations for more information.

You can support Harmon Canyon by donating to Ventura Land Trust, becoming a member, or volunteering. Contributions go towards protecting and preserving open space throughout Ventura County.

Harmon Canyon Preserve is managed by Ventura Land Trust, a non-profit organization dedicated to conserving and protecting the open spaces in Ventura County.

While Ventura Land Trust (VLT) maintains the single-track trails at Harmon Canyon Preserve, the gravel road is maintained by Southern California Edison. VLT is unable to make repairs to the road without risking financial liability for any structural issues.