Exploring Our Sense of Place

Exploring Our Sense of Place is an 8-session seminar series that includes a reception, 7 excursions with lectures by experts, and special reflection time during each outing.

The ESP program allows participants to experience the San Dieguito River Valley in all seasons, to follow its path from mountain to sea, to encounter plant, animal and human inhabitants, and to connect to the River Valley with their heart and minds.

Created in 2007 by Chris Khoury and Linda Corey, ESP is sponsored by the San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy and led by a wonderful team of volunteers.

Hikes vary from 3 to 6 miles, and some involve several hundred feet in elevation gain. Difficulty ranges from easy to moderately difficult, and some hikes include rocky trails and uneven surfaces. Depending on individual fitness levels, some explorers may find some hikes to be strenuous. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, we ask explorers to conduct a realistic assessment of their own fitness level.

September 22,2026, 5:00pm - 8:30pm (Reception)

The Powerhouse Community Center in Del Mar

October 3, 2026, 9am - 5pm (River Park Overview)

Volcan Mountain

November 7, 2026, 9am - 4pm (Geology)

Santa Ysabel Preserve East

January 9, 2027, 9am - 4pm (Birds of San Elijo Lagoon)

San Elijo Nature Center

February 6, 2027, 9am - 4pm (Chaparral & Water)

Lake Sutherland

March 6, 2027, 9am - 4pm (Descendants of Early San Diego)

Clevenger Canyon South Trail

April 3, 2027, 9am - 4pm (Wildflowers)

Piedras Pintadas Trail near Lake Hodges

May 1, 2027, 9:00am - 4pm (Lagoon Restoration and Graduation Luncheon)

San Dieguito Lagoon

The times listed for ending the excursions are approximate. It is best not to plan an event in the evening after the hike before 6:30 pm.

Excursions will not be cancelled due to light rain. The dates may be subject to change if weather, wild fires, or other unforeseen circumstances cause a delay. If you cannot attend an event or are going to be late, please notify one of the program administrators

Note: While it is understood that life and emergencies may prevent attendance at all sessions, participants are strongly encouraged to attend as many as possible to get the most benefit from the ESP experience.

Refund Policy: We understand that plans can change. Full refunds will be honored for cancellations received on or before August 31. Due to advance planning, reservations, and program expenses, registrations become non-refundable after August 31.

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::REQUIRED:: PLEASE READ AND ACKNOWLEDGE THE FOLLOWING:

INDEMNITY & PHOTOS USE waiver

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To learn more about the San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy visit: SDRVC.org

To learn more about Exploring our Sense of Place visit: SDRVC.org/education

The San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy is a 501(c)3 Nonprofit

Our work is supported by generous donors like YOU!

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