Goodan Ranch

Nestled amidst the rolling hills and canyons, lies the Goodan Ranch, a place where whispers of the past mingle with the vibrant tapestry of nature. Goodan Ranch was once a bustling hub of activity. In 1938, Roger and May Goodan purchased this picturesque land. They built a ranch where they spent their summers and weekends. They enjoyed horseback riding and the tranquility of the countryside. The ranch boasted a house, barn, garage, shed, water tower, and a windmill. You can still see remnants of these structures today, standing as silent witnesses to a bygone era. The Goodan family raised cattle on the ranch until 1991. Then, the property was acquired by the County of San Diego, the cities of Poway and Santee, and the State Wildlife Conservation Board. Today, Goodan Ranch, within the larger Sycamore Canyon Preserve, offers a network of over 10 miles of trails. These trails wind through diverse landscapes. Hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and runners all enjoy the natural beauty of Goodan Ranch. The ranch also features a visitor center. It serves as a community hub where visitors can learn about the history and ecology of the area. The Goodan Ranch Center stands next to the site of the original ranch house, which was tragically destroyed in the 2003 Cedar Fire. This LEED-certified building houses a multi-purpose demonstration room, exhibit room, and support spaces. It operates with minimal environmental impact and emphasizes energy efficiency. The preserve itself encompasses a remarkable 2,272 acres. It includes coastal sage scrub, chaparral-covered hills, grasslands, riparian areas, oak woodlands, and mixed chaparral. You’ll find picnic tables, a rest area, an outdoor amphitheater, a horse trough, and a hitching post, providing amenities for visitors to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Goodan Ranch holds a deeper connection to the past. Long before the Goodans, this land was part of the township of Stowe. Settlers arrived in the 1880s, drawn by the promise of a railroad connecting them to the wider world. A post office and schoolhouse were established, signs of a thriving community. However, the railroad plans were abandoned, and harsh weather conditions made farming difficult. Gradually, families moved away, leaving behind the ghost town of Stowe. Today, Goodan Ranch thrives as a recreational haven, honoring its history while embracing its natural splendor.