Published October 1, 2026
The trails of Midpen’s El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve became the backdrop for a celebration of heritage and nature as Latino Outdoors and Hispanic Access Foundation teamed up with Midpen to mark Latino Conservation Week. Community members gathered on September 13 for a 2.5-mile hike guided by Midpen Ranger Gonzalo Rozo. The hike was part of Midpen’s Community Partnership Program, which works with local organizations like Hispanic Access Foundation and Latino Outdoors to offer environmental programming in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
“This event brought together a love of the outdoors and a deep respect for Latino contributions to conservation,” Ranger Rozo said.
Latino Conservation Week was created by the Hispanic Access Foundation to support the Latino community in getting out in nature. The week, held annually in September, provides an opportunity for Latino communities to come together and demonstrate their passion for the outdoors, both its enjoyment and stewardship. Rooted in the legacy of Latino leadership in conservation, the events held during this week amplify the community’s passion for protecting natural, cultural and historic places while expanding access to the outdoors for all. Every attendee to the Midpen hike received a Latino Conservation Week-themed gift bag packed with stickers, granola bars and reusable water bottles at the start of the hike.
In the redwood forest along the Sierra Morena Trail, Ranger Rozo shared details about the trees and their ages while also pointing out poison oak. Participants paused to admire the Methuselah Tree, an 1,800-year-old, old-growth redwood that survived the logging-era in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
“I loved kicking off Latino Conservation Week by visiting the Methuselah Tree with friends,” said Aurora Cortes, San Francisco Bay Area Regional Coordinator with Latino Outdoors. “It was extra special to have Ranger Rozo lead us throughout the hike and connect us to the land, while also embracing the Latino culture and inspiring conservation and stewardship work. That’s what Latino Conservation Week is all about!”
Ranger Rozo shared insights into both endangered and common species within Midpen preserves, highlighting their intricate connections. Engaging trivia questions were sprinkled throughout the hike with winners choosing from an assortment of prizes provided by Hispanic Access Foundation. Back at the trailhead, the hikers gathered for refreshments and burritos before heading home.
“I appreciate the opportunity to share my passion for the Santa Cruz Mountains with such an enthusiastic group,” Ranger Rozo said. “Leading the hike was rewarding, and I look forward to crossing paths again with the participants the next time they visit a Midpen preserve.”
Learn more about free Midpen hikes, events and activities at openspace.org/events.