Fostering the next generation of environmental stewards

At Canyonlands, we empower youth from historically underserved communities to become the next generation of environmental leaders.

Through hands-on restoration projects and immersive experiences in nature, students help restore and protect local green spaces while building confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of belonging in the environmental movement.

By centering youth in place-based learning and decision-making, our programs break down barriers to access and representation, ensuring that those most impacted by environmental inequities have a voice in shaping the future of their natural spaces.

Canyon Connections initiative (CCI)

The Canyon Connections Initiative is a hands-on, paid program that invites Hoover High School students to immerse themselves in the natural world while caring for the canyons and creeks that make San Diego unique. Interns spend time outdoors alongside mentors, exploring the restorative power of nature, practicing mindfulness through activities like nature journaling, and developing a deeper connection to themselves, each other, and their community.

CCI is more than an internship—it’s a space for growth, reflection, and healing. By engaging directly with the land, students discover ways to manage stress, build meaningful relationships, and cultivate resilience, all while contributing to the restoration and stewardship of the ecosystems in their own neighborhoods.

  • Virtual Tour: City Heights 5-Canyon Loop Trail

    Can’t make it out to the canyons? Check out a virtual tour the CCI students put together using ArcGIS software to highlight the interconnectedness of nature and urban development in City Heights!

    Nature Field Guides

    Our CCI students researched and developed three comprehensive field guides published by The Natural History Museum highlighting the biological diversity found in City Heights Canyons!

    Trailhead Gardens

    Visit our student-designed gardens using this map.

  • Skills and Benefits

    • Hands on environmental restoration skills

    • Increased environmental literacy

    • Public speaking and mentorship

    • Project design and implementation

    • Plant identification

    • Paid internship (stipend)

    Year 1-2 Impact Report

    • 8 Trailhead gardens designed and installed

    • 3 Field guides designed and published

    • 24 Community and Mentorship events hosted

    • 310 Native plants planted in City Heights Canyons

    • 4,536 Hours of restoration and discovery

  • Application (Due: November 30th, 2025)

    Acceptance Letters Announced (December 31st, 2025)

    Orientation (TBD)

    First Day of Internship (TBD)


 

Hear what our previous interns have to say!

“I love coming here every week and seeing the progress we have made … it just stuns me because I feel like alongside these plants we’ve been able to flourish and really bond as a team.” - CCI student alumni, 2024

Interested in Getting Involved?

Whether you want to join our CCI program or learn about hosting your youth in one of our canyons— send us an email!

Thank you to our partners and donors.

The Natural History Museum | San Diego Groundwork | San Diego Coast Keeper | Ocean Discovery Center |

The Natural History Museum | San Diego Groundwork | San Diego Coast Keeper | Ocean Discovery Center |