Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve, Protected natural area near Winters, California

Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve is a 258-hectare unit of the University of California Natural Reserve System, managed by UC Davis, on the south side of Putah Creek east of Monticello Dam. Its sedimentary sandstones and shales underlie interior chaparral, blue oak woodland, mixed riparian woodland and intermittent foothill streams, from about 91 to 762 metres in elevation.

The area was established by the University of California Natural Reserve System and is managed by UC Davis as a research station. It primarily serves scientific study of the local ecosystems.

The reserve functions as an educational center where researchers document 108 bird species, eight amphibians, eighteen reptiles, and 43 mammal species.

Visitors should check weather conditions before hiking, as steep trails become hazardous during hot months and slippery after rain. Good footwear and water are always recommended for these demanding routes.

Following wildfires in 2015 and 2020, scientists monitor the natural recovery and document how California's interior chaparral ecosystems are changing. These observations help understand how ecosystems rebuild after major disturbances.