Victoria Aja has lived in Matilija Canyon since 2002, a ruggedly beautiful corner of Ventura County northwest of Ojai surrounded by Los Padres National Forest.
“Because it’s away from everything else and away from people, noise, urban light. It’s nice being isolated back here. I’m an artist, and I would say I’m far more creative in an environment like this,” said Aja, who specializes in landscape oil painting and works made of copper.
While Matilija Canyon boasts spectacular scenery, one thing that’s lacking is reliable road access, since the only way in and out, Matilija Canyon Road, is prone to storm damage when Matilija Creek rages. The steep-walled canyon typically receives some of the highest rainfall totals in Ventura County due to its mountainous geography relatively close to the coast.
Road conditions complicate access
The community of about 50 homes became even more isolated in 2023 when severe January storms caused a portion of Matilija Canyon Road to fall into Matilija Creek. Some residents were evacuated via helicopter while others stuck it out with provisions they had stored up until temporary repairs were made…