Events Search and Views Navigation
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 »May 2019
Nest: Creating Home
A three-part exhibition about the people, animals and plants that created a home on the Filoli estate. -Filoli is proud to announce its innovative new exhibition, Nest: Creating Home. The exhibition weaves together the formal and informal places in the estate, and explores the stories of the people who lived and worked at Filoli. The exhibition runs from May 10 to November 10, and integrates interpretive stories through an exhibit and guided tour: “The People of Filoli,” a mixed media…
Find out more »August 2019
Arachnophilia!
Explore the world of arachnids with spider-loving docents Debbi Brusco, Jack Owicki, and Sara Witt. With luck, a tarantula may cross your path as you search for often timid creatures that you might usually be inclined to avoid. You’ll hike at a leisurely pace along the Canyon Trail in addition to other trails, with an elevation gain of up to 600 feet. Capable, attentive children 10 years and older are welcome. Bring a flashlight (with a red filter or cellophane…
Find out more »Round Valley Sunset Hike
Discover the gorgeous hills at sunset at Round Valley Regional Preserve on the eastern slopes of Mount Diablo. Known for the abundant prey species that hide in its grass, Round Valley naturally attracts predators including badgers, bobcats, golden eagles, and mountain lions. Experience one of the most scenic valleys in the East Bay, a true jewel. There are restrooms and a picnic area at the staging area. Be sure to bring plenty of water and a snack, and dress in…
Find out more »Campfire Program
Celebrate the summer with a State Park Interpreter at our campfire program. We’ll roast some marshmallows, play trivia and other games, sing campfire songs, and feature a short presentation on an important nature topic. Come prepared to participate in the show, laugh, learn, and win prizes. It’s a great time for one and all! Meet at the campfire center next to the Ben Ries Campground. Free event. For more information, call (650) 879-2040.
Find out more »Summer Concert Series
Enjoy a free concert every week this summer! Great local groups with lots of talent! Visit the kiosk for performing artists’ information. Meet at the ramada for concert. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 464-5620.
Find out more »Binocular Stargazing at Coyote Valley Open Space
Binocular Stargazing is hosted by the Santa Clara County Open Space Authority with help from members of the San Jose Astronomical Association. Want to learn the night sky? Want to see the Milky Way and the stars contained in it? Did you know that you don’t need to spend a ton of money on a telescope to do so? All you need is a decent pair of binoculars. Come out and attend the “Binocular Stargazing” event on Saturday Aug. 24…
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 parking lot of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park campground, located off Graham Hill Road. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 335-7077.
Find out more »Eco-Sail to the Marin Headlands (Summer and Fall 2019)
Set sail aboard the Schooner Freda B for an ecology-themed tour of the Marin Headlands! This signature sail, boarding in Sausalito, will take you under the Golden Gate Bridge and all the way out to Point Bonita Lighthouse. This is a prime area for wildlife, there will be a naturalist on-board to guide you through the whole experience. You’ll learn about the diverse ecosystems of the San Francisco Bay, with frequent wildlife sightings, and then return in time for brunch…
Find out more »Little Rangers
Do you have a 3 to 6 year old child? This 30-minute program hour program children like yours to love and connect to nature with games, songs, activities, and goofiness. Meet at the campfire center. Adult supervision is required and participation is greatly encouraged! Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 335-7077.
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 »Bird Watching for Beginners
On this 1.5-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 »Burleigh H. Murray Ranch Park Property
Join us on a leisurely 2.5-mile, 2-hour hike along Mills Creek at Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park. Enjoy one of our area’s hidden treasures as you learn about the lives of the first pioneers and farming families. Bring water, good walking shoes, and dress for the weather. Meet at the Burleigh Murray parking lot, located on Higgins Canyon Road 1.5 miles from Highway 1 intersection. Rain cancels. Free event. For more information, please call (650) 726-8814 or email HMBparksvolunteer@nullparks.ca.gov.
Find out more »Ask Us!: Visitor Center Staffed
Do you have questions about Big Basin? Want trail information? Information about the plants and animals you see? Come to the visitor center, next to park headquarters, to get answers! Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »Little Rangers
Any and all 3 to 6 year olds are invited to play games, listen to stories and songs, and learn about nature! Activities and games vary from week to week, but always cover a topic relevant to Butano State Park. Smiles, laughter, and good times abound at this program, and it’s a fantastic way to begin your morning in the park. Meet at the campfire center next to the Ben Ries Campground. Parents are required to stay and encouraged to…
Find out more »Senior Stroll: Exploring an Island
This small preserve, which is surrounded by the tidally influenced South Fork of Las Gallinas Creek, is an ideal spot for a relaxed summer walk. The oak-covered hill which rises in the center of the island is encircled by a short (.3 mile) loop trail that follows the edge of the salt marsh. We’ll take advantage of this level, dirt pathway to discuss the plants and animals that can be found in each of these habitats. Remember to bring binoculars,…
Find out more »South Bay: Butano Redwood Grove
Beat the summer heat with a wilderness escape to Butano State Park. Greenbelt Alliance Advancement Manager Nora Cullen will lead us on this sylvan adventure through redwood-filled canyons along Butano Creek and the Six Bridges Trail. LEADER Nora Cullen TOTAL DISTANCE This is a moderate hike of four to five miles with a few hundred feet in elevation change. WEATHER POLICY Rain cancels. COST There is a $10/vehicle park entrance fee. Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/south-bay-butano-redwood-rove-registration-62726929936 WHERE TO MEET We’ll assemble near…
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 »Junior Rangers
All visitors aged 7 to 12 have the opportunity to become a Junior Ranger with this program. Junior Rangers learn about the importance of nature and our heritage through exploration, games, and various activities and earn prizes for their participation. Meeting locations vary; consult the whiteboards at the front kiosk or campground for program location. Free event. For more information, call (650) 879-2040.
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 »Bats of Alpine Pond – Skyline Ridge Preserve
Join docents Karen DeMello and Jan Hintermeister to dispel some myths and learn some facts about the world’s most misunderstood mammal: the bat. As the sun goes down, you’ll linger near the Daniels Nature Center to see whether bats appear over Alpine Pond, returning to your car before darkness sets in. Bring binoculars if you have them. Where to Meet: For this activity at Skyline Ridge Preserve, meet at the Russian Ridge Preserve parking lot on the northwest corner of…
Find out more »Twilight Adaptation Adventure
Twilight marks the end of day and the beginning of night. Animals who come out at night have special adaptations to survive. Come test your nocturnal abilities on this fun, half-mile, 1.5 hour walk. Meet at park headquarters. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
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. We go rain or shine, but strong winds may cancel. Meet at park headquarters. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.Event free. Vehicle day use fee is $10.
Find out more »Power Walk Woodward Park (6:30 pm)
READ for LOCATION!! LOCATION: Parking lot in front of Starbucks of Fort Washington. TOTAL MILES: 5.1 miles or so . . . DIFFICULTY: Moderate due to intensity and distance although we often break into multiple groups depending on how fast each of us want to walk. WHO CAN GO: Adult hikers of all abilities and well-mannered trail dogs obedient to their owners HIKE DESCRIPTION: For many of us, this is a BRISK, NOT LEISURELY, walk/jog for fitness of about 5…
Find out more »Junior Rangers
This fun one-hour program offers kids, ages 7 to 12, an opportunity to earn prizes while learning about birds, sea life, and local park animals, playing games, and doing arts and crafts. Meet at the visitor center. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 464-5620.
Find out more »One Tam: Wildlife Picture Index Project
Saturday August 10, 1 – 4pm and Tuesday, August 27, 1 – 4pm Come contribute to the Marin Wildlife Picture Index Project! Volunteer community scientists assist with research by helping maintain motion-activated cameras and processing photos. At this event, we view the images on the computer, identify the mammals, and enter the results in a database. New and experienced catalogers welcome, as training is provided. Register today: https://www.onetam.org/calendar as space is limited to 15 people. Suitable for ages 13 and…
Find out more »East Bay Hills Hike and Equestrian Ride
Save the date to attend a supported 5-day hike/6-day equestrian ride through East Bay Regional Parks. Choose the amount of days you want to hike and between a 10-12 mile hike or 6-8 mile hike each day. All meals and campsites are included and your camping gear is shuttled between campsites for you so you only need to hike with a daypack! The event benefits the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council, V-O-Cal, and other East Bay trail projects. Registration Coming Soon!
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 »Junior Rangers
This fun one-hour program offers kids, ages 7 to 12, an opportunity to earn prizes while learning about birds, sea life, and local park animals, playing games, and doing arts and crafts. Meet at the visitor center. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 464-5620.
Find out more »Power Walk Woodward Park (6:30 pm)
READ for LOCATION!! LOCATION: Parking lot in front of Starbucks of Fort Washington. TOTAL MILES: 5.1 miles or so . . . DIFFICULTY: Moderate due to intensity and distance although we often break into multiple groups depending on how fast each of us want to walk. WHO CAN GO: Adult hikers of all abilities and well-mannered trail dogs obedient to their owners HIKE DESCRIPTION: For many of us, this is a BRISK, NOT LEISURELY, walk/jog for fitness of about 5…
Find out more »Conservation Committee Meeting
The Conservation Committee discusses and reviews conservation issues that are affecting Santa Cruz County, including conservation topics such as forestry, wildlife habitats, water, transportation, pollution, preservation of heritage trees, and more. This Committee provides recommended actions to the Executive Committee regarding how to address these issues, such as writing letters to officials stating the Sierra Club Group's position. Open to the public. Meeting agendas and notes posted here: https://www.sierraclub.org/ventana/santa-cruz/conservation-committee-meetings-agendas-and-minutes
Find out more »Junior Rangers
This fun one-hour program offers kids, ages 7 to 12, an opportunity to earn prizes while learning about birds, sea life, and local park animals, playing games, and doing arts and crafts. Meet at the visitor center. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 464-5620.
Find out more »The State of Water: Understanding California’s Most Precious Resource Presentation by Obi Kaufmann
Obi Kaufmann’s lively presentation about how science and art can work together to deliver a powerful message of hope comes as an antidote to the miasma of despair that seems to pervade most popular discourse regarding the natural world of California and beyond. In the newly released The State of Water, a follow-up to his best-selling book The California Field Atlas, Kaufmann turns his artful yet analytical attention to the Golden State’s single most complex and controversial resource: water. Interspersed…
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 »Little Rangers
Do you have a 3 to 6 year old child? This 30-minute program hour program children like yours to love and connect to nature with games, songs, activities, and goofiness. Meet at the campfire center. Adult supervision is required and participation is greatly encouraged! Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 335-7077.
Find out more »Sweet Smells of Summer
Many of late summer’s drying plants are delightfully aromatic. Open your olfactory senses while exploring the wonders of nature with docents Gerri Tiernan, and Bill and Marilyn Bauriedel on this moderately-paced hike along the Orchard Loop and Zinfandel Trails. You’ll hike to adjoining Stevens Creek County Park for a brief lunch break at picnic tables before returning on the Zinfandel Trail. A visit to historic Picchetti Winery is optional (on your own) at hikes’s end. Where to Meet: Meet at…
Find out more »Junior Rangers
This fun one-hour program offers kids, ages 7 to 12, an opportunity to earn prizes while learning about birds, sea life, and local park animals, playing games, and doing arts and crafts. Meet at the visitor center. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 464-5620.
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 Hike
Join a State Park Interpreter for a 1.5-hour exploration of the park to learn about the local ecology and history of Butano Canyon. Topics discussed on the hikes will range from redwood forest ecology to the historical role of humans in shaping the modern landscape. Spend a wonderful afternoon outdoors while discovering a deeper sense of stewardship for the flora and fauna of Butano State Park. Meeting locations vary; consult the whiteboards at the front kiosk or campground for starting…
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 »Junior Rangers Program
We welcome all visitors aged 7 to 12 to discover local natural history of the coastline through hands-on activities and games, all while earning their Junior Ranger badge and logbook. Meet at the visitor center at Francis Beach-Half Moon Bay State Beach. Free event. For more information, call (650) 726-8814.
Find out more »Campfire Program
Join us for s’mores at 7:00pm and group activities at 7:30pm. Hear local lore about New Brighton State Beach and learn about the Monterey Bay with lots of singing, stories, games, and prizes for all ages. Meet at the group picnic area next to the ramada. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 464-5620.
Find out more »Campfire Program
Celebrate the summer with a State Park Interpreter at our campfire program. We’ll roast some marshmallows, play trivia and other games, sing campfire songs, and feature a short presentation on an important nature topic. Come prepared to participate in the show, laugh, learn, and win prizes. It’s a great time for one and all! Meet at the campfire center next to the Ben Ries Campground. Free event. For more information, call (650) 879-2040.
Find out more »Little Rangers
Do you have a 3 to 6 year old child? This 30-minute program hour program children like yours to love and connect to nature with games, songs, activities, and goofiness. Meet at the campfire center. Adult supervision is required and participation is greatly encouraged! Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 335-7077.
Find out more »Hike to Ocean View Summit
Escape the crowds on this 6-mile loop through shaded forest to a hilltop view of the coast. Join docent Steve Stolper as we climb the Meteor Trail through the trees, gaining 600 feet before emerging at Ocean View Summit. After a relaxed lunch we descend back into the forest and return to headquarters. Bring at least one liter of water, lunch, snacks, and appropriate clothing. Meet at park headquarters. For more information, call (831) 338-8883. Event free. Vehicle day use…
Find out more »Ask Us!: Visitor Center Staffed
Do you have questions about Big Basin? Want trail information? Information about the plants and animals you see? Come to the visitor center, next to park headquarters, to get answers! Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »Little Rangers
Any and all 3 to 6 year olds are invited to play games, listen to stories and songs, and learn about nature! Activities and games vary from week to week, but always cover a topic relevant to Butano State Park. Smiles, laughter, and good times abound at this program, and it’s a fantastic way to begin your morning in the park. Meet at the campfire center next to the Ben Ries Campground. Parents are required to stay and encouraged to…
Find out more »Marin MPA Watch Volunteer Training – Corte Madera Marsh
Join Marin Marine Protected Area (MPA) Watch on the beach to learn about California’s network of MPAs and how you can join our team as a community scientist collecting data in partnership with Environmental Action Committee of West Marin, Point Reyes National Seashore and the California Academy of Science. Training takes place 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Corte Madera Marsh. RSVP online eacmarin.org/mpa-watch.
Find out more »Outlook from Mt. McAbee
Join Docent Hal Anjo on a 6-mile, 3.5 hour moderate hike to McAbee Outlook. We’ll stop at the top and enjoy the lovely ocean views, returning through a beautiful old-growth redwood forest. Learn about the different habitats as you watch the environment change as we climb and enjoy the view. Bring plenty of water, snacks, 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 »Junior Rangers
This fun one-hour program offers kids, ages 7 to 12, an opportunity to earn prizes while learning about birds, sea life, and local park animals, playing games, and doing arts and crafts. Meet at the visitor center. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 464-5620.
Find out more »Old Cove Landing Trail
On this 2.5 mile, 2-hour family friendly walk, we’ll explore the plants, animals, and geology of our coastal bluffs. Bring water, hat, closed toe shoes, layered clothing, and binoculars if available. Meet at the interpretive center. Rain cancels. 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 »Junior Rangers
All visitors aged 7 to 12 have the opportunity to become a Junior Ranger with this program. Junior Rangers learn about the importance of nature and our heritage through exploration, games, and various activities and earn prizes for their participation. Meeting locations vary; consult the whiteboards at the front kiosk or campground for program location. Free event. For more information, call (650) 879-2040.
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 »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 »Snakes Alive!
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 Sempervirens Room at park headquarters, meet docent Diane Shaw and her snake, and learn about the fascinating world of snakes. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »Discover Big Basin Redwoods
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 »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 »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 »Rancho Canada Del Oro OSP: 7.8mi Moderate Hike
PLEASE READ THE EVENT DESCRIPTION BELOW ABOUT CARPOOLING. Difficulty: ModerateHiking Time: 4 hoursDistance: 7.8 Miles Official Trail Use: No Dogs Shade: Don't forget your sunhat for your own personal shade. Shade does not matter if you have your sunhat. I never leave home without it. Facilities: Restrooms at trail head. No drinkable water. PLEASE MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO GO BEFORE YOU ARRIVE SO WE CAN START ON TIME. THE GROUP IS TOO LARGE TO WAIT FOR EVERYONE TO USE THE…
Find out more »Guided Hike
Join a State Park Interpreter for a 1.5-hour exploration of the park to learn about the local ecology and history of Butano Canyon. Topics discussed on the hikes will range from redwood forest ecology to the historical role of humans in shaping the modern landscape. Spend a wonderful afternoon outdoors while discovering a deeper sense of stewardship for the flora and fauna of Butano State Park. Meeting locations vary; consult the whiteboards at the front kiosk or campground for starting…
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 »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 »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 »Junior Rangers Program
We welcome all visitors aged 7 to 12 to discover local natural history of the coastline through hands-on activities and games, all while earning their Junior Ranger badge and logbook. Meet at the visitor center at Francis Beach-Half Moon Bay State Beach. Free event. For more information, call (650) 726-8814.
Find out more »East Bay: Tarantula Trek on Mount Diablo
Join us for an evening hike up Mitchell Canyon in search of the crepuscular critters that call Mount Diablo home. We’ll get close up and personal with Liz Watson’s eight-legged friend, Scarlett O’Harry, before we head out to look for owls, bats, reptiles, spiders, and other denizens of the dark that hide during the day but shine (figuratively and sometimes literally) as the sun goes down. DISTANCE This is an easy to moderate hike of about two-and-a-half miles with a…
Find out more »Evening Campfire Programs
Join us in our historic campfire center for an evening of song and story. Serenade the glittering stars and learn about redwoods and the creatures of the forest while relaxing in the shadows of the towering trees. Fire lighting and marshmallow roasting (we provide the marshmallows and sticks!) starts at 7pm and the program begins at 7:30pm. Meet at the campfire center.Wheelchair and stroller accessible. Good dogs welcome! Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »Campfire Program
Celebrate the summer with a State Park Interpreter at our campfire program. We’ll roast some marshmallows, play trivia and other games, sing campfire songs, and feature a short presentation on an important nature topic. Come prepared to participate in the show, laugh, learn, and win prizes. It’s a great time for one and all! Meet at the campfire center next to the Ben Ries Campground. Free event. For more information, call (650) 879-2040.
Find out more »Summer Concert Series
Enjoy a free concert every week this summer! Great local groups with lots of talent! Visit the kiosk for performing artists’ information. Meet at the ramada for concert. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 464-5620.
Find out more »September 2019
Eco-Sail to the Marin Headlands (Summer and Fall 2019)
Set sail aboard the Schooner Freda B for an ecology-themed tour of the Marin Headlands! This signature sail, boarding in Sausalito, will take you under the Golden Gate Bridge and all the way out to Point Bonita Lighthouse. This is a prime area for wildlife, there will be a naturalist on-board to guide you through the whole experience. You’ll learn about the diverse ecosystems of the San Francisco Bay, with frequent wildlife sightings, and then return in time for brunch…
Find out more »Eastshore State Park restoration
The North Basin restoration project meets the first Sunday of each month at Eastshore State Park in Berkeley, on the bay shoreline south of Tom Bates soccer fields, to continue clearing radish and other invasives from around the native plants and prepare for next year’s plantings. A map of the area can be found at https://goo.gl/rqdZQW. For directions to the work site or more information about this project, contact [email protected]
Find out more »