Trails
Parks
Preserves &
Everything else

Dedicated to improving and building outdoor spaces in Southern California.

Transforming Outdoor Spaces in Southern California.

At SoCal Outdoor Services we specialize in working in some of the most stringent environmental landscapes. Our experience and expertise comes from years of working in partnership with public agencies. We look for unique solutions to complex problems in protected and treasured landscapes.

Our Services

Trails

We build and maintain trail in some of the most diverse landscapes. Southern California is home to some of the most challenging geological formations, steep terrain and onerous government bureaucracy in the Country.

Amenities

We specialize in building outdoor amenities of all types—from bridges and boardwalks to rock and timber walls, gates, fences, and more.

Balancing Needs

We can help you with everything else. From understanding public behavior on the trail, user enjoyment and how to help protect sensitive resources while providing sustainable access. We are experienced in being present for the long haul and projects that can take years to come to fluicion.

Historic Devil's Slide Footbridge

In 2025, contractor Ben Stone led the refurbishment of the historic Devil’s Slide Footbridge in La Jolla. Located along the Coast Walk Trail on the La Jolla cliffs, this designated historic structure presented unique challenges due to overlapping jurisdictional constraints, including MSCP, MPA, Coastal Zone regulations, and its classification as a “paper street” under the City’s transportation system.

Funded by the nonprofit Friends of the La Jolla Coast Walk, the effort was several years in the making. Ben worked closely with the client for nearly two years to bring the project to completion.

Construction required a comprehensive fall protection system, sourcing custom-milled lumber to match historic dimensions, and strict adherence to original plans dating back over 35 years to maintain historical integrity.

Ruffin Canyon Trail

Constructed between 2023 and 2026, this project created a sustainable trail corridor through Ruffin Canyon, connecting the communities of Serra Mesa and Mission Valley for the City of San Diego.

As a Capital Improvement Program (CIP) project, it required strict compliance with stormwater regulations, as well as biological, cultural, and archaeological monitoring, in addition to Fire Safe Council requirements.

The half-mile alignment includes three bridges and traverses steep, densely vegetated slopes. Due to environmental constraints, much of the trail was constructed as a full export operation—requiring all excavated material to be loaded into wheelbarrows and hauled out to designated disposal areas.

Electric Fleet Services Options

For projects impacted by nesting restrictions and other seasonal noise limits, we provide a specialized electric fleet. This premium option minimizes disturbance and supports compliance with environmental conditions of approval, allowing work to continue where traditional equipment may be limited.

Reduced Emissions

Zero-emission operation protects sensitive flora and fauna in treasured landscapes.

Quieter Operation

Minimal noise pollution near neighborhoods, wildlife habitats, and peaceful recreational parks.

Eco-Conscious Excellence

Modern construction practices that align with forward-thinking local and environmental policies.

Our Team

Gisell Stone CEO

Ben Stone Contractor

Gisell Stone serves as Chief Executive Officer, overseeing administrative, financial, and compliance functions. She is a trained architect in Mexico with nearly 20 years of experience in construction documentation, drafting, and regulatory compliance in California

Ben Stone specializes in building and restoring trails across Southern California’s public lands, navigating complex environmental and cultural constraints. His work includes over 1,000 feet of trail bridges and the restoration of historic 1800s wagon routes.

Trails Parks Preserves & Everything else