You are invited to a short, easy hike to experience the extraordinary nature of Meher Mount. You can walk among the wildflowers, do a little bird watching, learn about the wildlife, and enjoy the peace and silence of nature.
Discover this unique, peaceful refuge for people, plants, and animals.
This guided walk is led by Scott Tomkinson and Ray Johnston. Scott is a local professional botanist and project leader for the study of the flora of Ojai and its surrounding areas. Ray was a professional ranger in parks, resource management, and animal behavioral science. He is currently the on-site resident caretaker for Meher Mount.
The experienced guides may show you something you otherwise could miss!
The walk is on Saturday, April 18, 2026 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. You are welcome to join the group.
The Ojai Valley, including Meher Mount, is a bird enthusiast’s delight. Pause a moment, and even the casual bird watcher can view the different species that find Meher Mount a welcome home or a good place to visit during the spring bird migration.
And each spring after the winter rains, the hills and valleys of Meher Mount are dotted with the wildflowers that delight the birds and visitors alike. You’ll love being outdoors enjoying the scenery and the wildlife.
A WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW at Meher Mount. (Photo: Juan Mendez)
Because of the varied habitats, mild climate, and proximity to the ocean, this area is particularly suited for bird watching and seeing the California wildflowers.
Come join the nature walk for some bird watching and native plant observations suited to both novice and experienced observers of nature.
The gates open at Noon so you can spend some quiet time seeing the views from Avatar’s Point and watching the birds near the Visitor Center.
What to Bring
Bring layers, including a windbreaker, as the temperature changes throughout the day
Wear sturdy, close-toed walking shoes that can get muddy and wet
Bring a hat and sunglasses
If you have binoculars, mark your name on them and please bring them
Please bring your own bottle of water for the walk
Camera
Smaller backpack or fanny pack to carry your belongings
Please do not bring
Please do not bring your pets.
There are no fires, incense or candles. The fire danger is extremely high.
There are no drugs, alcohol or firearms.
Guidelines
For general visitor information, see the Visitor Guidelines.
Children — Parents are responsible for maintaining their children’s safety. Children under nine years must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.
For children nine through 14 years, there should be a responsible adult at Meher Mount who is actively engaged in the supervision of their activities and whereabouts at all time.
Please note there is no climbing on any equipment or in the trees.
RSVP — Nature Walk — Saturday, April 18, 2026
Weather
BEES landing on wildflowers at Meher Mount. (Photo: Juan Mendez)
The weather should be cool and sunny. The temperatures will change depending upon the time of day and if you are in the shade or in the open.
Also, if it has rained or there is fog or dew, the grasses will be wet and you could pick up moisture on your pants and shoes as you do your walks.
Bird Watching Tips
To see nature, and particularly the birds, it helps to be silent and listen. Through their individual songs you can recognize specific birds and know what to look for. Birds can be found on different levels of the territory they occupy.
To help identify a bird, note whether it is hopping on the ground, perching on a low limb, or circling high overhead. Notice the bird’s physical outline, overall color, and the shape of the tail, wings and bill, as well as how it is behaving. Happy bird watching!
Bird Watching Apps
Audubon Bird Guide: North America (Android and iPhone)
Merlin Bird ID (Android and iPhone)
Raptor ID (iPhone and Android)