April 2019
Take the Bay Ridge Challenge
Wherever you are, the Ridge Trail isn’t far away. This long-distance trail circumnavigates the Bay Area through all nine counties. And you can too! Walk, run, bike, or horseback ride your way through selected local adventures and explore the many beautiful miles of the Ridge Trail for 360 degrees of inspiration. For 30 years, the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council and people like you have been building and taking care of the Bay Area’s very own long-distance trail. Celebrate our…
Find out more »December 2019
Inspire children and yourself by becoming a Bay Shore Docent
Inspire children to protect San Francisco Bay by becoming a Bay Shore Docent. Training starts January 9, 2020 Sign up by 11/24 and you’ll be able to join a low tide beach tour on Monday 11/25 from 2:30 to 4:30. Details provided after registration. What is Bay Shore Studies? A field trip program that brings out the natural scientists in 3rd-5th grade students! Docents lead small groups of students in a hands-on exploration of the natural world revealed at low…
Find out more »When Water Dreams – Art Exhibition
Canadian artist/photographer Bill Peters presents large-scale color images of the salt ponds, sloughs and wetlands of San Francisco Bay shot from a helicopter from 2009 through July of this year. The shoreline of San Francisco Bay is a crucible where the human forces that work on land and water intersect with nature. Infused with the graphic power and emotional sensibilities of formalist abstract art and color field painting, Peters’ work surprises: at first glance it appears fully abstract, indistinguishable from…
Find out more »Native Plant ID Workshop
Our seventh year of plant ID workshops will continue this fall and will bring us four exciting workshops. If you are searching for a fascinating way to spend an hour and a half once a month studying botany, this is the place. We learn about plants, observe their distinguishing characteristics, and dissect them. Botany graduate students give us a brief but informative PowerPoint lecture on the plant family under discussion and help us to key out the plants that have…
Find out more »Birding the Hill
Explore Corona Heights Park with bird walk leader Sarah Burton to check out the avian inhabitants and springtime visitors. Birders will circle the hill to look into several habitats, each of which is enjoyed by different bird species. The east canyon, the south cliffs, the north forest, and the hilltop grasslands will all be explored. 30-40 species of birds can be spotted on these walks, along with displays of seasonal wildflowers. Beginning birders are welcome! The walk lasts about 2.5…
Find out more »Bird Watching for Beginners
On this 2-hour walk, be prepared to hike two miles on uneven surfaces, with many stops to view the many birds, plants, and scenery along the way. You will help each other spot and identify birds! Bring your binoculars if you have them (binoculars are available to borrow), clothes for variable weather, and good walking shoes. Meet at the interpretive center. Everyone is welcome, but children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by adults. Rain cancels. Free event.…
Find out more »When Water Dreams – Art Exhibition
Canadian artist/photographer Bill Peters presents large-scale color images of the salt ponds, sloughs and wetlands of San Francisco Bay shot from a helicopter from 2009 through July of this year. The shoreline of San Francisco Bay is a crucible where the human forces that work on land and water intersect with nature. Infused with the graphic power and emotional sensibilities of formalist abstract art and color field painting, Peters’ work surprises: at first glance it appears fully abstract, indistinguishable from…
Find out more »Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? How are they important to humans? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 1.5-hour walk. Bring water and good walking shoes. Meet at park headquarters. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »Ft Ord Badger Hills Conditioning Hike (~12+ mile, ~1,500 ft)
We start and finish Ft. Ord National Monument Badger Hills Trailhead Parking next to hwy 68. *Route:Parking - Guidotti - Skyline - Oil Well - Trail 45 to Toro Creek RDThen turn back up Trail 45 - Oil Well - Skyline - Guidotti - Parking *FlexibilityMileage (5 to 15 miles) and Elevation gain (800' to ~2,000') can be varied to individual preference * Restroom is available at the trailhead*Coffee is available across the street on hwy 68, Toro Place Caffe…
Find out more »Birding for Beginners in Waddell Valley
Interpreter Jeremy Lin will lead an approximate 2 mile hike to observe and enjoy morning wildlife at Rancho del Oso. We will take our time and explore the beautiful coastal valley. No previous experience necessary. It is helpful to bring binoculars, bird guides and a readiness for patient observation as we witness wildlife awakening on a crisp Waddell Valley morning. Please RSVP to jeremy.lin@nullparks.ca.gov. Meet at the deck in front of the nature center. Free event. For more information, call…
Find out more »Laguna de Santa Rosa Trail – Highway 12 entrance
Did you know the Laguna de Santa Rosa was an area where nomadic gatherings occurred? Who inhabited this amazing watershed and how do we continue to benefit from the biodiversity and ecological services of wetlands? Investigate the Laguna de Santa Rosa’s cultural history with a fun scavenger hunt revealing what the landscape looked like prior to the gold rush of 1849. Families and folks of all ages welcome. Parking $7 or free for Regional Parks members. For more information on this…
Find out more »Rockville Trails Preserve Crew Work Days
Help Solano Land Trust with the development of trails at Rockville Trails Preserve and create a long lasting memory for generations to hear about. It’s great opportunity to get outside and get some exercise while getting a sneak peek of the new trail system. We are looking for volunteers who will be able to have fun and do earth work in preparation for the new trails that will be laid out on this property. Large groups, organizations, high school clubs, and…
Find out more »Volunteer with the Trail Crew
Since 1969, the Big Basin Volunteer Trail Crew has helped make it possible for others to safely enjoy the beauty of our park. The trail crew meets the second Saturday of each month, rain or shine. A typical workday lasts until mid-afternoon. Please bring your own work gloves, lunch, and water. Join us for a unique perspective of Big Basin, a lively and productive experience with others who share a love of these redwood forests, and the satisfaction of participating…
Find out more »Backcountry Hike
On this challenging 3-hour hike, we’ll explore the natural and cultural history of the upper hills of Wilder Ranch. This hike includes several descents and ascents. Bring water, lunch, and hiking shoes. Meet in parking lot. Rain cancels. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 426-0505.
Find out more »When Water Dreams – Art Exhibition
Canadian artist/photographer Bill Peters presents large-scale color images of the salt ponds, sloughs and wetlands of San Francisco Bay shot from a helicopter from 2009 through July of this year. The shoreline of San Francisco Bay is a crucible where the human forces that work on land and water intersect with nature. Infused with the graphic power and emotional sensibilities of formalist abstract art and color field painting, Peters’ work surprises: at first glance it appears fully abstract, indistinguishable from…
Find out more »Coffee Talk and Crafts
Come to the Sempervirens Room next to park headquarters for free coffee or hot chocolate! This is a great way to start your day in Big Basin. Docents will be happy to answer your questions about the park and help get you going on the right trail. And bring the kids for a fun craft activity! Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338- 8883.
Find out more »Book Signing – Beauty and The Beast: California Wildflowers and Climate Change
The beautifully illustrated coffee table book, Beauty and The Beast: California Wildflowers and Climate Change, will be available at a book signing on December 14th, 10am–3:30pm. Rob Badger and Nita Winter’s book, a companion to their recent educational exhibit displayed at the Bay Model last April and May, features 190 stunning wildflower portraits and landscapes. Beauty and the Beast includes short stories by 16 passionate scientists and nature writers representing over a dozen conservation organizations, government agencies and universities.
Find out more »Saturday Morning Hike at Sprig Lake
Meet Saturday Morning 10AM, at Sprig Lake off 152 in Gilroy. We'll hike up Sprig Tail, then back down. Turn around at approximately 1.5 hours (or at the top). "Ridge and Sprig Trails Loop is a 5.1 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Gilroy, California that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is best used from April until September. Dogs are also…
Find out more »You’re Invited to our Second Saturday on the Richmond Greenway!
You’re Invited to Come Celebrate Summer on the Greenway! The Watershed Project invites you to come to our Second Saturday on the Richmond Greenway. Our volunteer community workday is coming up soon and we would love to have you come join us. Come by to dig in and help take care of the Richmond Greenway, a wonderful community park and cycling/pedestrian path. Come enjoy the green, lush growth of summer as we tend our native plants, learn some useful gardening…
Find out more »John McLaren Park Habitat Restoration Volunteer Project
Come join the Natural Resource Division in a recurring habitat restoration volunteer project at John McLaren Park. Explore the biological diversity of San Francisco’s second largest park. Get to know one of our favorite gems in the city. Volunteer activities include weeding restoration sites and planting maintenance. The event will occur rain or shine. Minimum volunteer age is 12 years old Volunteer tasks include weeding and plant maintenance Please wear close-toed shoes and appropriate clothing for physical work Tools and…
Find out more »Hidden Gems: Flowers of Big Basin!
There are many less-famous, yet still beautiful, plants in the redwood forest. Join docent Kathy Willott on this four-mile, three-hour walk and meet some of the hidden gems of Big Basin! Bring water and lunch. Meet at park headquarters. Heavy rain cancels. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »Bair Island Interpretive Walking Tour
Looking for a family-friendly outdoor activity? Join us for the Bair Island Walking Tour! Enjoy a crisp winter morning and join us for a docent-led 1.5-mile walk through Bair Island. You’ll learn about the history of this protected space, information about the species that live there, and what you can do to contribute. We recommend bringing binoculars to check out the cool birds at this preserve! Sign up below with a valid e-mail address so you receive pre-event communications. Please…
Find out more »Saturday Science Drop-in Workshops
Drop by the Randall Museum’s Science Studio and discover the wonders of science. From building rockets to making polymers, the project-based activities explore a different science topic each week. Most classes produce a fun project to take home for continued discoveries. *On the third Saturday of each month there will be a special Astronomy Science activity in the Pop-up Planetarium in the Randall Theater.
Find out more »Castle Rock Loop Hike
On this 1-mile, 1-hour interactive journey we will discuss the various park ecosystems, Ohlone history, Black Oak ecology, wildfire, and more. Bring water, closed toe shoes, snacks, and a camera. Meet at kiosk. No pets. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 291-8273.
Find out more »Monarch Butterfly Tours
Stroll through the Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve on a 1-hour guided tour. Monarch migration is variable, so be on the lookout for every splash of orange on the walk! Meet at the visitor center. To arrange a tour for groups of 10 or more, please visit www.thatsmypark.org. Event is free. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 423-4609.
Find out more »Old-Growth Redwood Tour
Are there different kinds of redwoods? How do coastal redwoods grow to become the tallest organisms on earth? Why are there so few old growth trees left? How important are banana slugs to the redwood ecosystems? Answer these questions and more every Saturday on our Redwood Grove Walks. One of our knowledgeable and friendly docents will lead you through the wondrous old growth forest and answer any questions you may have. Meet at the visitor center. Free event. Vehicle day-use…
Find out more »Discover Big Basin Redwoods Hike!
Explore the park’s less travelled backcountry with Docent Barry Grimm. This moderately paced hike will be individually tailored to your group. Based on group size, experience level, and weather conditions, we will choose from the many trails that explore the park’s most scenic areas. Bring water and good hiking shoes. Meet at park headquarters. Free event. Vehicle day- use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »Tour the Base of Pigeon Point Lighthouse
Explore the history of Pigeon Point Light Station from inside Pigeon Point Lighthouse. After 18 years of being closed off to the public, these 30-minute tours offer the rare opportunity to take a glimpse inside the lighthouse tower. Topics include maritime navigation, lighthouse functions and history, and restoration projects within the park. Tickets are $10 per person ages 4 and up, and can be purchased the day of the tour in the park store. Children 3 and under are free.…
Find out more »Afternoon Art Drop-in Workshops
Drop by the Randall Museum’s Art Room and get creative with your kids. Art instructors guide a different hands-on art activity each week. All ages are welcome to participate. Afternoon Art is a great way to get a taste of the Randall Museum’s arts and crafts programs.
Find out more »Trekking the Model
Join a Ranger or docent on a guided tour of the Bay Model, a 1.5-acre hydraulic model of the San Francisco Bay and Delta. Discover the stories of the two major operations that took place at this location between 1942 –2000.
Find out more »FAMILY PROGRAM: Holiday Nature Crafts
A Garden tradition, create gifts and decorations inspired by nature and the Garden’s collection. Mini evergreen wreaths, greeting cards from pressed botanicals, felt projects, nature-filled ornaments, and so much more! Drop-in anytime during 2 hour window. Space is limited – advance registration highly recommended. (Children must be accompanied by a paid registered adult.) Includes admission to the Botanical Garden. While you are here, visit our special Holiday Pop-up Shop in the Julia Morgan Hall! Open 11am-4pm. Target audiences: All Audiences,…
Find out more »Ranch Tours
Discover what life was like a century ago on this innovative dairy ranch. This hour-long tour includes the 1897 Victorian home, 1859 Gothic Revival farmhouse, 1896 water-powered machine shop, barns and other historic buildings. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 426-0505.
Find out more »Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? How are they important to humans? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 1.5-hour walk. Bring water and good walking shoes. Meet at park headquarters. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »Guided Adobe Tour
Join us for a guided tour of the oldest building in Santa Cruz. Come learn about the many families who have called this 180-year-old mission adobe their home. Free event. For more information, call (831) 425-5849.
Find out more »Lichen Workshop, Tilden
The California Lichen Society …promoting the appreciation, conservation, and study of California lichens The focus of the society is on California, but its interests include the entire western part of the continent. Anyone interested in California lichens may join the Society. Meet in the Regional Parks Botanic Garden Visitor Center Auditorium, Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley. Park in the Camp Oaks Parking Area or on Anza View Drive. Please RSVP to [email protected]
Find out more »Snake Park Saturday
Why are snakes important to us? How do they see, smell, taste, and hear? What and how do they eat? What does a snake feel like? Come to the Rancho del Oso Ranger Station to learn about the fascinating world of snakes. Several snakes will be on display and native reptile adaptations will be discussed in the beautiful backdrop of Waddell Valley! Park at Waddell Beach and walk 0.4 miles past the yellow gate along the Skyline to the Sea…
Find out more »Meet the Animal Keeper
Venture into the Randall Museum’s live animal exhibit, Wild in California, and join one of the animal keepers in an open discussion about the museum’s wildlife residents. Learn how the keepers care for the animals and how and where these creatures live in the natural world. Kids and families will meet some of the animals up-close and can ask the keeper questions to find out more about their favorites. Visitors can meet a snake, check out a barn owl, or…
Find out more »Monarch Butterfly Tours
Stroll through the Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve on a 1-hour guided tour. Monarch migration is variable, so be on the lookout for every splash of orange on the walk! Meet at the visitor center. To arrange a tour for groups of 10 or more, please visit www.thatsmypark.org. Event is free. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 423-4609.
Find out more »Old Tree Trail Hike
On this 1-mile, 1-hour kid friendly excursion we’ll stroll through a giant old growth redwood grove that’s over 1,200 years old, discover the banana slug’s vital role to this flourishing forest, and learn about the marvelous Marbled Murrelet and how park visitors can help save these endangered birds. Bring closed toe shoes, water, a snack, and a camera. Meet at the visitor center. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 291-8273.
Find out more »Pacheco Falls Hike from Hunting Hollow Entrance
Come join us Sunday morning at 8am for an out and back hike to Pacheco Falls. With all of the recent rain, we're starting to see green in the park again and the falls are flowing. The forecast calls for clear weather, so it's shaping up to be a beautiful day. This hike will have a 16, 18, and a 20 mile option. The overall hike from Hunting Hollow is 20 miles. For folks wanting one of the shorter options,…
Find out more »Christmas Bird Count – Santa Rosa
Audubon’s 120th Christmas Bird Count is conducted between December 14 to January 5, inclusive dates, each season. Your local count will occur on one day between those dates. Participate in as many counts as you wish! A map view of the circles expected to be included in the 120th CBC is available here. If you’re interested in participating this season, check out the map to find a count near you; more circles will be added as they are approved. Green and yellow…
Find out more »Birding for Beginners
Join birder extraordinaire Jim Williams for a tranquil morning filled with our little flying friends! Learn about the birds in our park, receive a Henry Cowell RSP birding brochure, and begin your career as an energized birder! Make sure to bring water, comfortable footwear, and a keen eye and/or ears! Meet in the campground parking lot located off Graham Hill Rd. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 335-7077.
Find out more »Native Flora & Fauna Hike – Briones Regional Park
Enjoy a beautiful walk below a canopy of madrone, bay, and oak giants. We will undoubtedly see newts and mushrooms as we parallel Bear Creek on a single-track trail and circle back on a section of the Seaborg Trail. Be sure to dress in layers and wear sturdy boots or shoes; bring hiking sticks, plenty of water, sunscreen, and a snack. There is one shallow creek crossing. RVSP: To allow everyone equal access in signing up, registration for this hike…
Find out more »Native Flora & Fauna Hike – Briones Regional Park
Enjoy a beautiful walk below a canopy of madrone, bay, and oak giants. We will undoubtedly see newts and mushrooms as we parallel Bear Creek on a single-track trail and circle back on a section of the Seaborg Trail. Be sure to dress in layers and wear sturdy boots or shoes; bring hiking sticks, plenty of water, sunscreen, and a snack. There is one shallow creek crossing. RVSP: To allow everyone equal access in signing up, registration for this hike will open…
Find out more »The Road Less Traveled: A Dog-Friendly Walk
On this dog-friendly walk, we travel North Escape Road, a paved road closed to traffic. We tour stunning old-growth redwood groves along beautiful Opal Creek. We’ll discuss redwood ecology and park history while exploring the deep shade of the redwood forest. This is a fun and easy, 3- mile, 2-hour walk with docent Diane Shaw. Dogs not required, but welcome! Bring water. Meet at park headquarters. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338- 8883.
Find out more »Berry Creek Falls Hike
Travel deep into the heart of Big Basin as you experience a wide range of habitats on this moderate to strenuous 11-mile-loop hike. Wind through shady redwood canyons and climb dry ridges as you hike to the jewel of Big Basin—65-foot Berry Creek Falls. Bring lots of water, lunch, and wear layers. Docent Bill Rhoades will guide you on this seven-hour hike. Meet at park headquarters. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »Table Mountain – Upper Stevens Creek Park – Moderate 10 miles
It is limited parking lot on gravel turnout along road hwy 9 near Achistaca trailhead. So carpool is highly recommended. Our hiking plan is following: take Achistaca trail , it is actually located Long Ridge open space, then cross Hwy 35 using Hickory Oaks trails and Saratoga gaps trail to reach Charcoal rd. Then we'll start our main ascend to Table mt using table mountain trail . We'll take table mt. fire road and reach mt top where we can…
Find out more »5-mile Winter Walk at Coe Ranch, Morgan Hill
Join Coe Volunteers on this 5-mile walk. It's relatively flat, with about 400 ft elevation gain. We'll start on Manzanita Point Road, then walk the Springs, Forest and Corral trails. Back to cars about 2:00pm. Winter is a peaceful time in Coe Park. Dormant oaks spread their sculptural arms to the sky. Fungi and lichen have been awakened by the rains. Bits of green are starting to peep out from under golden grasses. We'll keep a casual pace, allowing time…
Find out more »Hike to Buzzard’s Roost
Develop your hiking muscles with this challenging 5-mile, 5-hour trip to Buzzard’s Roost. Join docent Steve Stolper for a hike to a dramatic rock formation with a commanding view of the park. We gain 1,200 feet in elevation on the way up. After a relaxed lunch on the rocks, we return to headquarters. Bring at least one liter of water, lunch, snacks, and appropriate clothing. Rain cancels. Meet at park headquarters. For more information, call (831) 338-8883. Event free. Vehicle…
Find out more »Castle Rock Loop Hike
On this 1-mile, 1-hour interactive journey we will discuss the various park ecosystems, Ohlone history, Black Oak ecology, wildfire, and more. Bring water, closed toe shoes, snacks, and a camera. Meet at kiosk. No pets. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 291-8273.
Find out more »Monarch Butterfly Tours
Stroll through the Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve on a 1-hour guided tour. Monarch migration is variable, so be on the lookout for every splash of orange on the walk! Meet at the visitor center. To arrange a tour for groups of 10 or more, please visit www.thatsmypark.org. Event is free. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 423-4609.
Find out more »When Species Collide
Join docent Ken Koll (kenneth_koll@nullyahoo.com) for a four-mile hike on the beautiful Skyline to Sea Bypass Trail. Along the way, we will pass through the varied habitats of the Waddell Valley and explore topics like native vs. non-native plants, invasive species, and adaptations. Bring water, snacks, and sturdy footwear. Park at Waddell Beach and walk through the entrance gate (yellow gate across from Waddell Beach parking lot) 0.25 miles to the ranger station. Free event. For more information, call (831)…
Find out more »Third Sundays Soberanes State Park Weed Bash, CNPS
This is a CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY event. The ocean side of Soberanes weed bashes are every 3rd Sunday including March 17 and April 21, 2019. Here, Soberanes Creek falls into the ocean and needs our help continuing to remove various invasive weeds— primarily Cape ivy. All supplies provided. Bring a friend, water, and a snack. Bruce Delgado is the leader. To help with broom at Monterey’s Quarry Park, please contact Al Washburn at . Photo by Hal Grotke.
Find out more »Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? How are they important to humans? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 1.5-hour walk. Bring water and good walking shoes. Meet at park headquarters. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »Monarch Butterfly Tours
Stroll through the Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve on a 1-hour guided tour. Monarch migration is variable, so be on the lookout for every splash of orange on the walk! Meet at the visitor center. To arrange a tour for groups of 10 or more, please visit www.thatsmypark.org. Event is free. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 423-4609.
Find out more »When Water Dreams – Art Exhibition
Canadian artist/photographer Bill Peters presents large-scale color images of the salt ponds, sloughs and wetlands of San Francisco Bay shot from a helicopter from 2009 through July of this year. The shoreline of San Francisco Bay is a crucible where the human forces that work on land and water intersect with nature. Infused with the graphic power and emotional sensibilities of formalist abstract art and color field painting, Peters’ work surprises: at first glance it appears fully abstract, indistinguishable from…
Find out more »9-mile Hike to Steer Ridge, Gilroy
Join Coe Volunteers on this 9-mile moderate hike from Hunting Hollow. Elevation gain about 1400 ft. Lunch at a 360-view picnic area on Steer Ridge. It's a big hike but we go at a casual pace with time to admire what's around us and take photos. Back to cars about 3 pm. We start at the Hunting Hollow entrance, then walk about two miles alongside the Coyote Creek on the scenic Hot Springs Road. Head up through the forest on…
Find out more »Exploring Big Basin
Learn about redwoods, forest plants, fires, geology, history and more on these fun, varied hikes with docent Diane Shaw. Hikes are 5-8 miles and last up to 5 hours. Meet at park headquarters. Rain or shine, but strong winds may cancel. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »When Water Dreams – Art Exhibition
Canadian artist/photographer Bill Peters presents large-scale color images of the salt ponds, sloughs and wetlands of San Francisco Bay shot from a helicopter from 2009 through July of this year. The shoreline of San Francisco Bay is a crucible where the human forces that work on land and water intersect with nature. Infused with the graphic power and emotional sensibilities of formalist abstract art and color field painting, Peters’ work surprises: at first glance it appears fully abstract, indistinguishable from…
Find out more »Sutro Native Plant Nursery Volunteer Day
PROPAGATION AND TRANSPLANTING at Mt. Sutro Native Plant Nursery Every Wednesday, 9:30am – 12:30pm Come enjoy a morning of Stewardship at the Sutro Nursery! Nursery activities include sowing seeds, transplanting plants, tending to our demonstration gardens, planting out on the mountain, and more, depending on the needs of the day. No experience necessary, tools and instruction provided. Please bring water and wear clothes you don’t mind getting a little dirty, sturdy shoes, and layers. Long pants and closed toe shoes are required.…
Find out more »Yerba Buena Island Habitat Restoration Volunteer Work Day
Join us on the third Wednesday of each month from 1P-3P and learn about Yerba Buena Island’s natural habitat while “getting your hands dirty” restoring native habitat, propagating native species and removing invasive plant species with guidance from SFE and TIDA natural areas management staff! All ages and abilities are welcome! Bring suncreeen, a hat, closed toed shoes and a water bottle. Tools, work gloves and water is provided!
Find out more »Inspire children and yourself by becoming a Bay Shore Docent
Inspire children to protect San Francisco Bay by becoming a Bay Shore Docent. Training starts January 9, 2020 Sign up by 11/24 and you’ll be able to join a low tide beach tour on Monday 11/25 from 2:30 to 4:30. Details provided after registration. What is Bay Shore Studies? A field trip program that brings out the natural scientists in 3rd-5th grade students! Docents lead small groups of students in a hands-on exploration of the natural world revealed at low…
Find out more »When Water Dreams – Art Exhibition
Canadian artist/photographer Bill Peters presents large-scale color images of the salt ponds, sloughs and wetlands of San Francisco Bay shot from a helicopter from 2009 through July of this year. The shoreline of San Francisco Bay is a crucible where the human forces that work on land and water intersect with nature. Infused with the graphic power and emotional sensibilities of formalist abstract art and color field painting, Peters’ work surprises: at first glance it appears fully abstract, indistinguishable from…
Find out more »Eastern Alameda Christmas Bird Count
Join the Christmas Bird Count in the upper Alameda Creek watershed, sponsored by the Alameda Creek Alliance and Ohlone Audubon Society The 11th annual Eastern Alameda Christmas Bird Count will be held on Friday, December 20, 2019. A huge thank you to Rich Cimino for initiating the Eastern Alameda bird count! The Christmas Bird Count is an annual nationwide volunteer-based bird survey effort coordinated by the Audubon Society to promote bird conservation and assess long-term trends in winter bird populations.…
Find out more »Birding the Hill
Explore Corona Heights Park with bird walk leader Sarah Burton to check out the avian inhabitants and springtime visitors. Birders will circle the hill to look into several habitats, each of which is enjoyed by different bird species. The east canyon, the south cliffs, the north forest, and the hilltop grasslands will all be explored. 30-40 species of birds can be spotted on these walks, along with displays of seasonal wildflowers. Beginning birders are welcome! The walk lasts about 2.5…
Find out more »When Water Dreams – Art Exhibition
Canadian artist/photographer Bill Peters presents large-scale color images of the salt ponds, sloughs and wetlands of San Francisco Bay shot from a helicopter from 2009 through July of this year. The shoreline of San Francisco Bay is a crucible where the human forces that work on land and water intersect with nature. Infused with the graphic power and emotional sensibilities of formalist abstract art and color field painting, Peters’ work surprises: at first glance it appears fully abstract, indistinguishable from…
Find out more »Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? How are they important to humans? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 1.5-hour walk. Bring water and good walking shoes. Meet at park headquarters. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »6th Annual Winter Solstice 3 Forks Limekiln Hike (~12 Miles, ~3,700′)
Join me for my 6th annual Winter Solstice hike across the 3 forks of Limekiln Creek. LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY FOR THIS HIKE (using ski run rating system): ♦ (due to hike length, elevation gain, ruggedness of terrain in some sections, and likelihood of downed trees and minor slides on our route if any meaningful rain between now and hike day). ****The hike is open to a limited group of ~20 people so as to keep the group size manageable; please…
Find out more »When Water Dreams – Art Exhibition
Canadian artist/photographer Bill Peters presents large-scale color images of the salt ponds, sloughs and wetlands of San Francisco Bay shot from a helicopter from 2009 through July of this year. The shoreline of San Francisco Bay is a crucible where the human forces that work on land and water intersect with nature. Infused with the graphic power and emotional sensibilities of formalist abstract art and color field painting, Peters’ work surprises: at first glance it appears fully abstract, indistinguishable from…
Find out more »San Lorenzo River Estuary Project
SAN LORENZO RIVER ESTUARY PROJECT invites you to spend time outdoorson Saturday DEC. 21st from 9am-11am Why?You'll enjoy helping improving food sources, shelter for the wildlife while schmoozing with great people. What will we do?Remove the new growth of invasive blk. & silver wattle acaciasExtend growth margins of established natives & add soilPrune dead woodPlant nativesSpread strawWeed around last month's planted natives When?Saturday, Dec. 21st, 2019 between 9am-11am Where?Boardwalk path @ bottom of Trestle bridge We suggest that you bring…
Find out more »Habitat Restoration: Love Lake Lagunitas
Stewardship is an ethic that embodies planning and management of the land to support healthy habitat. Become a steward of Mt Tamalpais by joining us in a morning of habitat restoration at the Marin Municipal Water District. Our grassy meadows are home to sun-loving plants and animals and are hunting grounds for birds of prey. The fruits of our open canopy hardwoods – oak, bay and madrone trees – nourish abundant forest wildlife. Halt the advancement of the fast-growing species…
Find out more »Senderos Wreath Making Workshop at Sonoma Garden Park
As part of our bilingual Senderos Series, we will make something beautiful from nature to decorate your home or give it as a gift! Sonoma Ecology Center hosts its wreath making workshop at Sonoma Garden Park Saturday, December 21st, 10 am-12 pm. Using all local greenery and forest findings, you will learn techniques to bundle and loop, creating original rings of glory. An ancient tradition, wreaths make the perfect winter welcome at an entrance, holiday centerpiece or wall decoration. Whether…
Find out more »McLaren Park Mushrooms
Leader: Alan Rockefeller, mycologist Join mycologist, Alan Rockefeller, for a fungal foray in McLaren Park. We will meet at 10:00 am at the Jerry Garcia Amphitheater parking lot. This may be a popular field trip, so please watch your step and try to stay on trail. If there has been no significant precipitation in December, we will have to reschedule; heavy rain on the 21st rain postpones to December 29. Email [email protected] if you have any questions.
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