Education

During Spring wildflower walks, volunteer leaders share their knowledge about the hills, plants, animals, and natural history.

The proximity of the Crafton Hills to many schools from elementary to college level provides opportunities for outdoor education and field laboratories in the environmental sciences.

Recreation

Trails in the Crafton Hills are used by hikers, horseback riders, bicyclists, birders, and other "escapists" from the rigors of work and city life.  The large network of trails provide access to Crafton Hills College, Yucaipa Regional Park, Zanja Peak, and the north slopes.  From them you can view the three "saints" of the Southern California high country: Mt. San Gorgonio, Mt. San Jacinto, and Mt. San Antonio.  On a clear day, the valley view is spectacular!

The Conservancy hosts a challenging hike from the Regional Park to Zanja Peak 2-3 times a year. 

Ecological Values

The low moaning call of a roadrunner can still be heard in the coastal sage, and red-tailed hawks and golden eagles still soar over the chaparral-covered slopes of the Crafton Hills.  Horned lizards scurry along the sandy washes, and mule deer graze on the woolly California lilac - the northernmost occurrence of this species.  The hills provide habitat for over 500 species of plants and animals, including many species that are becoming increasingly scarce as urban growth and development consume the San Bernardino Valley and the rest of Southern California.  Also, the Crafton Hills provide important watershed values, protecting the slopes for natural groundwater recharge, and benefitting the municipal wells in the adjacent communities.