Where to look for Newts in Southern California!

The California newt (Taricha torosa) is the largest native salamander found in the Santa Monica mountains. It is endemic to California and the species ranges throughout the coast and the mountain range from Mendocino to San Diego County. In the Santa Monica mountains they can be found in oak woodlands, chaparral, and grasslands but you can also find these newts mating and laying eggs in the Santa Monica and Simi hills from November until July so you actually have more time to enjoy them here! Dont forget these cute little newts are super toxic so make sure to always wash hands well after handling.

You Probably didn't think you can see these cute newts in So Cal but with the recent storms I am pretty sure you not only will find them but, also get to see an amazing waterfall! I would say wait a few days since right now it can be very muddy right after the rainfall, but once the rain calms down you have got to check out this hike!

Trail: Waterfall Trail

Location: Rancho Sierra Vista National Park Property in Thousand Oaks

Distance: 3.3 miles roundtrip

Difficulty: Considered moderately difficult but doable by all ages

In recent years, due to the drought, you normally wouldn't see more than a trickle of water, but right now it should be absolutely gushing! There is also a Satwiwa Native American Cultural Center that's open on the weekends, so make sure to spend some time there as well. Be sure to check out any workshops and events to learn more about the native Chumash people of the area and all the local wildlife.

You can start off by parking in the main parking lot by the Rancho Sierra vista property and start at the Satwiwa Loop Trail Via the Satwiwa Culture Center. This route will connect to a fire road, which will eventually become the "waterfall trail". From the cultural center you will want to stick on the unpaved path to the left to start the satwiwa loop trail leading towards a beautiful lush green meadow. I highly recommend downloading the All Trails app prior to your hike and follow along the map while on the trail so you don't miss any important turns and can stay on track! Use this link to follow the trail from your phone: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/satwiwa-loop-and-old-boney-trail?u=i&sh=bai883

AllTrails is an amazing app that I use on all of my hikes. You can search for hikes in various locations and varying levels of difficulty, and there is a free and paid version of it. I just have the free one, so it tracks my steps, and I like to check it every time I see more than one turn to make sure I don't miss any and confirm my route back to my car.

You are going to keep an eye out for the waterfall trail signs and follow that route. Be prepared for a muddy, wet hike and look out for poison oak. Keep in mind that this is a popular destination and can get crowded on weekends so plan to get there early to enjoy some peace and quiet upon arrival at the falls. Also while there are no guarantees to find California Newts or water bugs, if you go on the weekends, I'm sure the staff at the cultural center will be happy to let you know if they're around before you start the hike!

Things to keep In mind

• Always respect wildlife and handle with care if you choose to pick up the Newts and make sure to wash your hands right after especially before eating due to the poisonous toxin on their skin. If you haven't already, check out my California newts blog post here.

• Pack in what you pack out and keep the place cleaner than you found it. Please remember to Leave no Trace, put trash in designated bins and stay on the Trail.

• Enjoy the Adventure. Maybe you will find newts and maybe you won't but hopefully you'll be back!