Mount Clef Ridge, Volcanic ridge in Thousand Oaks, California, US
Mount Clef Ridge is a volcanic ridge near Thousand Oaks that runs from Norwegian Grade toward Wildwood Regional Park. The formation spans open terrain with views across neighboring valleys and park areas.
The ridge formed from volcanic activity and lava flows about 30 million years ago. Park authorities later acquired the land to protect it and make it available to the public.
The ridge served as homeland for the Chumash people long before colonizers arrived in the region. This heritage reminds visitors of who lived on this land first.
The ridge is accessible from several trailheads including routes from Santa Rosa Valley, Newbury Park, and Wildwood Regional Park. Wear proper hiking shoes and bring water, as paths cross open terrain without much shade.
An ancient rock shelter called Wildflower Cave once provided refuge and served as a dwelling for the Chumash. Today students from California Lutheran University study this archaeological site to learn about early peoples.
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