Outdoor Activities

SUMMER 2019 | June – July – August

MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT

GENERAL INFORMATION

The activity durations listed are averages based on our experience. However, always allow extra time in your schedule for unusual circumstances, or the slower pace of some groups. You can help by Jack Gescheidt arriving a little early to ensure a prompt Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve start for each activity. The activities are FREE; some require reservations. All activities are developed and led by ith this newsletter in hand and a docents who have completed a District W sense of exploration in mind, we training program. These docents volunteer invite you to enjoy the Midpeninsula their time to share their knowledge of nature Regional Open Space District preserves. These 26 extraordinary preserves include with you. For more information about the over 63,000 acres of permanently protected volunteer docent program, visit the District’s open space, from redwood forests to bay website at www.openspace.org, or phone shoreline. We encourage you to participate the District at 650-691-1200 weekdays, in the wide variety of adventures offered 8:30am to 5:00pm. inside Outdoor Activities. Monte Bello Open Space Preserve Jack Gescheidt

ACTIVITY GUIDELINES

To Ensure Your Experience is Enjoyable, Please Review this Information • Please be courteous, stay alert, and make • Equestrians must provide their own horses your presence known to other trail users (no stallions). Lead lines are required and well in advance, particularly when breast collars are recommended for all approaching from behind. horses, and helmets must be worn by all • Heavy rain cancels hike activities unless riders under age 18. Windy Hill Open Space Preserve otherwise noted in the description. If there • For all hikes, wear boots or sturdy Robin Goldthwaite is light rain or the threat of rain, go to the walking shoes appropriate for rugged meeting place. Docents will plan to meet trails. Dress in layers (T-shirt, long-sleeved Special Note participants – hike route or duration may be shirt, sweater, and/or jacket). The weather altered due to weather and trail conditions. can be unpredictable. No matter what If you have a group of 8 or more people who would like to attend • Participants are encouraged to make season it is, be prepared for rain, wind, a docent-led activity listed here, personal decisions on comfort, safety, and fog, or sun! please contact the Interpretation willingness to drive or hike in stormy or • Carry ample drinking water with you. and Education Program Manager to threatening weather conditions. Water is not available on preserves. discuss in advance at 650-625-6536 • For a mountain bike or horseback ride, • Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) or [email protected]. Other heavy rain within two days prior to the and consider insect repellent. arrangements may need to be activity will cancel it. • Restrooms are not available at all considered for your group. • Hikers yield to horses; bicyclists yield to preserves; please plan accordingly. hikers and horses. Observe trail speed • Please carpool if possible. Parking is Header photo: Picchetti Ranch Open limits (15 mph max; 5 mph when passing). limited in some locations. Space Preserve by Jack Gescheidt 3 MONTE BELLO WHERE TO MEET Meet at the Preserve parking lot on Page Mill Road (across from Los Trancos Preserve), 7 miles west of I-280 or 1.5 miles Directions to preserves featured in this season’s schedule of Outdoor Activities are listed below. Some preserves have more than one access point. Some activities meet east of Skyline Boulevard. Those traveling at different locations than where the activity will actually occur. If an activity does not from I-280 on Page Mill Rd. should allow meet at the preserve listed, or if there is more than one preserve access point, the approximately 35 minutes travel time. alternate meeting location will be indicated in italics on a separate line following PICCHETTI RANCH the preserve name as part of the activity header. (For example: Skyline Ridge Meet: Russian Ridge or Russian Ridge Meet: Caltrans vista point). If no information From the intersection of I-280 and Foothill follows the preserve name, then refer to the detailed directions for the preserve or Expressway, go 3.5 miles southwest (toward alternate meeting location listed below. the mountains) on Foothill Boulevard Stevens Canyon Road. Turn right on Note: Restrooms are not always available; please plan accordingly. Montebello Road. The Preserve is PLEASE CHECK THE LISTED DESCRIPTION TO MAKE SURE YOU MEET YOUR 0.5 miles up Montebello Rd. on the left. ACTIVITY LEADER AT THE CORRECT LOCATION. PULGAS RIDGE From I-280, exit Edgewood Road. Drive 0.75 miles on Edgewood Rd. toward San BEAR CREEK REDWOODS EL CORTE DE MADERA CREEK (continued) Carlos/Redwood City. Turn left (north) on From Highway 17 take the Bear Creek Skeggs Point: Meet at the Caltrans vista Crestview Drive, then immediately turn Road exit, opposite Lexington Reservoir. point on the east side of Skyline Boulevard, left on Edmonds Road. Follow Edmonds (From southbound Hwy. 17, exit the highway about 4 miles north of La Honda Road Rd. to the Preserve parking lot entrance and go under an overpass; road will curve (Highway 84) and 1.5 miles south of Kings on the right. right to a stop sign at Bear Creek Rd., turn Mountain Road. Please note that Caltrans PURISIMA CREEK REDWOODS left. From northbound Hwy. 17 exit highway prohibits a left turn into the parking Purisima Creek Road entrance: From and cross the highway via the overpass on lot when approaching from the the Highway 92 and Highway 1 to Bear Creek Rd.) Travel 1.0 mile from north along Skyline Blvd. intersection in Half Moon Bay, Hwy. 17 on Bear Creek Rd., as road travel south on Highway 1 curves left there will be a pedestrian Meet at the Sears approximately 4.3 miles. OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES • SUMMER 2019 crosswalk, turn left into the parking lot Ranch Road parking Turn left on Verde Road. immediately after the crosswalk. lot off Highway 84 in After turning on Verde Rd. COAL CREEK La Honda. From I-280, and traveling 0.25 miles, Meet at the Caltrans vista point pull-out area exit Sand Hill Road and continue straight to remain opposite Russian Ridge Preserve gate RR01, head west. Turn right on what becomes Purisima located on Skyline Boulevard, 1.2 miles onto Portola Road; make Creek Road. (Verde Rd.

Sk es splits off to the right.) Travel north of Page Mill Road and 6 miles south a sharp left onto Hwy. 84 yli m ne iv A of Highway 84. Those traveling from I-280 West. Turn right onto Sears Ridge OSP by L approximately 3.7 miles on on Page Mill Rd. should allow approximately Ranch Road (13.6 miles). From Purisima Creek Rd. to reach the Preserve. 40 minutes travel time. Highway 1, take Hwy. 84 East/La Honda RANCHO SAN ANTONIO Road/San Gregorio Road and turn left on DANIELS NATURE CENTER From I-280, take Foothill Boulevard Sears Ranch Road (9.2 miles). Park at the Russian Ridge Preserve parking south and turn right almost immediately lot on the northwest corner of the Skyline LONG RIDGE onto Cristo Rey Drive. Continue about Boulevard (Highway 35) and Page Mill/ Meet at the roadside pullout area for Peters 1 mile, veer right around the traffi c circle, Alpine Road intersection (across Creek Trailhead on the west side of Skyline and turn left into the park. Go to the lot Skyline Blvd. on the right). Boulevard, 3.6 miles north of Highway 9 farthest to the right and meet near the Walk to Alpine Pond at or 3.3 miles south of Page Mill restroom at the bottom of the hill. Skyline Ridge Preserve Road. Traveling from the north RAVENSWOOD by going through the on Skyline Blvd., the pullout From Highway 101, exit on University tunnel under Alpine Rd. is just past Portola Heights Avenue. Follow University Ave. north The Nature Center is Road on the right. From the (about four long blocks) to Bay Road. a small gray building south, the pullout is near the Turn right on Bay Rd. and follow it to on the east shore of Palo Alto city limits sign on the very end (about 1.2 miles). The Alpine Pond. the right. There is additional Preserve entrance and parking lot are parking across Skyline Blvd. marked with large signs. EL CORTE DE F at the Grizzly Flat trailhead re au MADERA CREEK m Y RUSSIAN RIDGE on lle (Santa Clara County Park). Meet at the Preserve t O iche Meet at the main Preserve parking lot on the lder OSP by M parking lot located on the west LOS TRANCOS northwest corner of the Skyline Boulevard side of Highway 35 (Skyline Boulevard), Meet at the Preserve parking lot on Page (Highway 35) and Page Mill/Alpine Road about 1-mile south of the Caltrans Skeggs Mill Road (across from Monte Bello intersection (across Skyline Blvd. on the Point parking area and 2.7 miles north Preserve), 7 miles west of I-280 or 1.5 miles right). Those traveling from I-280 on of the intersection of Highway 35 and east of Skyline Boulevard. Those traveling Page Mill Rd. should allow approximately Highway 84. from I-280 on Page Mill Rd. should allow 40 minutes travel time. approximately 35 minutes travel time. 4 RUSSIAN RIDGE (continued) SKYLINE RIDGE THORNEWOOD (continued) Mindego Gateway parking lot: From Equestrian parking lot: Located on Alternatively, from the junction of I-280, exit Page Mill Road and head west. Skyline Boulevard one mile south of the Highway 35 (Skyline Boulevard) and Drive about 9 miles to the junction with Skyline Blvd. (Highway 35) and Page Hwy. 84 in Sky Londa, take Hwy. 84/ Skyline Boulevard, cross over Skyline Mill/Alpine Road intersection. After La Honda Road north 1.9 miles and turn Boulevard and on to Alpine Road, go past entering the Preserve, proceed to the right at the brick wall marked 895-897. the main preserve entrance. Continue on farthest parking lot on the left. Those WINDY HILL Alpine Rd. for 1.5 miles to the Mindego traveling from I-280 on Page Mill Rd. From I-280, exit Alpine Road in Portola Gateway parking area on the right. Allow should allow approximately 45 minutes Valley. Go south on Alpine Rd. about 45 minutes travel time from I-280. travel time. 2.9 miles to Portola Road (the fi rst stop SARATOGA GAP THORNEWOOD sign). Turn right on Portola Rd. and Meet at the Caltrans vista point on the From I-280, take the Highway 84/ travel 0.8 miles to the parking lot on southeast corner of the Skyline Boulevard Woodside Road exit. Follow Hwy. 84/ the left side of the road. (Highway 35) and Highway 9 intersection. Woodside Rd. through Woodside and SIERRA AZUL then to a junction with Portola Road at Summit parking lot: 3.3 miles. Bear right to stay on Hwy. 84, Meet at the parking lot at the top of now La Honda Road. At 4.9 miles from Mt. Umunhum Road. Exit Highway 85 I-280, turn left at a brick wall marked at Camden Avenue. (From Southbound 895-897; look for the District sign just Hwy. 85 turn left on Camden Ave. From inside this gate. The small parking northbound Hwy. 85 turn left on Branham area is on the right about 500 feet Avenue, then left on Camden Ave.) Travel from the entrance gate. Please do on Camden Ave. about 1.6 miles. Turn not drive beyond this lot toward the right on Hicks Road and travel for about private residences.

6.3 miles. Turn right on Mt. Umunhum Rd. Chris Tracey and travel for 5.3 miles to the Preserve parking lot on the left. Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES • SUMMER 2019 KEY TO SYMBOLS

Easy Hike: Flat to gently rolling hills. Total elevation gain Dogs on leash: Well-behaved and socialized dogs are less than 200 feet. Leisurely pace. allowed, and must be controlled on a maximum six-foot leash.

Moderate Hike: Steeper or more frequent uphill grades. Total Equestrian Ride: Riders under age 18 must wear a elevation gain 200 to 600 feet. Leisurely to moderate pace. helmet. Lead lines are required and breast collars are recommended for horses. Equestrians must provide their Strenuous Hike: Steep hills and/or long distances. Total elevation gain greater than 600 feet. Moderate to own horses (no stallions). vigorous pace. Reservations required: Reservations for activities Suitable for children: must be accompanied and supervised requiring them will only be accepted within the two by an adult. See the activity description for any additional (2)-week period just before the activity date. To make information. a reservation or a cancellation, visit the District’s Web site www.openspace.org/reservations or call Wheelchair accessible. 650-691-2150 (enter 2). If you provide information prior to the reservation acceptance period, it will not Stroller accessible: Jogger-type suggested. be processed. Please limit your reservation to a maximum of four (4) people. Meal/snack break: Bring a lunch, dinner, or snack as appropriate.

Easy Nature Ride: Slow, leisurely pace, minimal climbing, Advanced Mountain Bike Ride: Intended for participants and multiple stops to observe nature. with dirt single-track riding experience; competent at climbing and descending steep and rough trails. Moderate Outings include Introductory Mountain Bike Ride: to fast pace, 10+ mile ride on a wide variety of trail demonstration and practice emphasizing trail etiquette conditions. For experienced riders with a high level of and techniques required for dirt riding followed by a physical fitness and excellent endurance. 5- to 7-mile ride on fire roads and single-track trails, with occasional natural history stops. Riders should be in Note: For all rides, bicyclists must wear helmets and bikes good physical condition to perform climbs and descents. must be in good condition, and the participants must be very familiar with the operation of gears and brakes. Mountain Intended for participants Intermediate Mountain Bike Ride: bikes are strongly recommended for all except the Easy Nature with dirt single-track riding experience; able to climb and Rides. Easy Nature, Introductory, and Intermediate Rides descend steep and moderately-rough trails. Recreational include a natural history component that is provided by the ride at a moderate/brisk pace; 8+ miles on a wide range docents during the rest stops. Advanced rides develop and of fire roads and single-track trails. For experienced riders improve mountain bike skills – any natural history discussion in very good physical condition with good endurance. stops are secondary to the overall riding experience.

5 JUNE Wildfl owers and Wild Birds Saturday • June 1 Picchetti Ranch • 4.5mi

9:00am to 12:30pm Karl Gohl

You’ll meander through farm and woodland Monte Bello Open Space Preserve habitats on an out-and-back trip along the Zinfandel Trail. Your docents, Bill and Stop In and Explore Earthquake Hike Marilyn Bauriedel, and Farhana Kazi, Saturday and Sunday Sunday • June 2 will point out some special late-fl owering June 1 and 2 Los Trancos • 2-3mi wildfl ower species, like red ribbons clarkia Daniels Nature Center 2:00pm to 4:30pm and wind poppy. You are encouraged to 12:00noon to 5:00pm bring binoculars as this Preserve attracts Join docents Paul Billig and Collin Lim many migrating and resident birds, which A summer outing awaits you…bring family for a fun and educational hike along the your docents will help you identify by and friends to visit the Daniels Nature San Andreas Fault. You’ll stop to discuss sight and sound. A lunch stop will be at Center on Saturdays and Sundays this the wonder of plate tectonics, examine picnic tables in view of Stevens Creek. summer between 12:00noon and 5:00pm. remnants left by thousands of major You can enjoy an audio nature tour earthquakes, and learn how to prepare Ohlone Medicine hike (listening devices are available for future earthquakes. Families with engaged children (who are attentive Saturday • June 1 to “check out”), view displays about listeners and capable of hiking several Long Ridge • 5 mi natural communities and larger-than-life miles) are welcome on this leisurely-paced 9:45am to 2:00pm pond strata mobiles, observe live aquatic organisms “borrowed” from Alpine Pond outing with minimal elevation change. Native Americans, including with the assistance of a docent, or enjoy (Note: This popular hike is not suitable Indians, had a great number of uses for a picnic with your companions on nearby for large groups – thank you.) the plants growing on their lands, an tables (pack out your own trash please). important use being medicinal. Join Health and Wellness Hike

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES • SUMMER 2019 docents Sarah Schoen and Kim Borick Diversity in Nature Wednesday • June 5 on this hike exploring the Peters Creek Sunday • June 2 Monte Bello • 4mi and Long Ridge Trails, with a lunch Windy Hill • 4mi 9:30am to 12:30pm break overlooking the western slopes 9:00am to 12:00pm Your health matters! Enjoy the benefi ts of the . There will How many habitats abound in this area, of being out in nature while learning how be frequent starts and stops as you learn to improve your health. You’ll explore how selected native plants were used to and how do they co-exist in an intricate mosaic? Discover this Preserve’s diversity interconnections within the natural world treat ailments before the introduction of while deepening your own connection with docents Jayita Bhojwani and Gerri modern medicine. to the environment. Docents Catherine Tiernan on a moderately-paced hike Crawford-Swent, Marie Faust Evitt, and with about 450 feet of elevation change. In the Glow of the Night Helena Cohen will use simple mindfulness You’ll make stops to observe changes in Saturday • June 1 practices and discuss stress reduction. vegetation as you explore different ecological Monte Bello • 4.5mi The activity’s fi rst mindfulness exercise communities. Along the way, you’ll learn 5:45pm to 11:00pm will be overlooking a canyon view where about the common fl ora and fauna that call Discover night’s natural wonders with the North American and Pacifi c tectonic these habitats home, and how they have plates meet. Join in and take a step toward docents Debbi Brusco, Paul Billig, Katherine adapted to thrive independently together! Greene, and Jack Owicki. You’ll hike at improving your health and wellbeing. a leisurely to moderate pace along the Rambling Ridge Ride Canyon and Indian Creek Trails with Explorer Hike: The Wild Side Sunday • June 2 extended stops for interesting sights and Wednesday • June 5 Long Ridge • 7mi Coal Creek • 4-5mi sounds. Bring a fl ashlight with a red fi lter/ 10:00am to 1:00pm cellophane covering if you have it, your 10:30am to 2:30pm meal, and something to sit on. Capable, Join docents Dave Kocsis and Patty Join docents Dennis Smith, Kate attentive children 10 years and older are Lovelace for an intermediate-level bike Gudmunson, Laura Levin, and Mary welcome. Reservations are excursion exploring this beautiful Preserve. Brunkhorst as you explore the varied required and will be You’ll ride the cool riparian Peters Creek habitats of this less-often-visited preserve. accepted on or after Trail, then climb to the Long Ridge Trail for Thanks to the ample rain this year, you May 24. sweeping views of grassy rolling hills with should enjoy a proliferation of wildfl owers – wooded creek areas below. After pausing in both number and variety – despite the at Turtle Rock, you’ll return by a different relatively late season timing for “usual” route. Participants are expected to be best displays. Many birds have been experienced and able to ride on fairly observed here as well, so bring your steep, narrow dirt trails, and ready to binoculars, cameras, identifi cation skills, climb more than 1,000 feet. Experienced and whatever else you need to enjoy a youth cyclists are welcome. day in the sun in search of wild things! 6 Signs of Summer Scenic Aerobic Hike Explorer Hike: A Four Thursday • June 6 Wednesday • June 12 Park Loop Pulgas Ridge • 4.25mi El Corte de Madera Creek • 4-6mi Wednesday • June 19 9:00am to 12:00pm Meet: Skeggs Point Saratoga Gap • 5mi 10:00am to 1:00pm 10:30am to 2:30pm Enjoy a hike while viewing of a variety of oak trees, summer wildfl owers, and bushes Join docents Huey-Shin Yuan, Mary Enjoy a moderately-paced hike through two with berries. Join docents Liz Foreman and Brunkhorst, and Fran Keeler for a open space preserves, a county park, and Toni Gooch to explore the plants and trees moderately- paced, exercise focused a state park with docents Mary Brunkhorst, in this Preserve as you hike along the hike on trails with beautiful scenery. Kate Gudmundson, and Laura Levin. You’ll Blue Oak, Hassler Loop, Dick Bishop, “Scenic Aerobic” hikes are offered walk through forest and woodlands along Dusky-footed Woodrat and Cordilleras at different preserves every second the Saratoga Gap Trail and a portion of the Trails. Take in the scenic view as you Wednesday. The route of each hike will . Crossing over to the hike along the top of the ridge. This be determined by the docents based on sunnier side of the ridge, you’ll return along moderately-paced hike includes climbing current trail and weather conditions. the Hickory Oaks and Achistaca Trails hills and hiking on uneven terrain. through grasslands. You’ll fi nish your day Horses, History, and Views by way of the Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail and refl ect on the wonder of connected open All Creatures Great and Small Thursday • June 13 space lands. Thursday • June 6 Russian Ridge • 9mi Thornewood • 3mi Meet: Skyline Ridge equestrian 9:30am to 12:30pm parking lot Butterfl ies of Sierra Azul Friday • June 21 Who lives in the meadow? Or in a stretch 10:00am to 3:00pm Sierra Azul • 4mi of oak woodland, or around the edges of Bring your trusty steed and explore how Meet: Mount Umunhum Summit parking lot Shilling Lake? This short hike passes through open space land was once used and how 10:00am to 2:00pm fi ve different plant communities. Do the horses were key to meeting transportation same animals inhabit all of the communities? needs. Docent Teri Baron with assistance Docents Jan Hintermeister and Vivian Who might you expect to fi nd sheltering from an equestrian trail patrol volunteer, Neou will be your traveling companions under a manzanita bush but never under will provide historical information about on this leisurely-paced hike around the a redwood? Why? With docents Frances the ranchers in the area as you enjoy Mt. Umunhum summit and on Mt. Umunhum Reneau and Debbie Mytels you’ll be looking Trail. Although your focus is on butterfl ies, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES • SUMMER 2019 for scat, tracks, scrapes,and nests as well nature and history on your horse. Trails on this leisurely-paced ride with moderate you’ll see many other as for the critters themselves, and recording plant and animal your fi ndings. Children are welcome. elevation gain include Sunny Jim and Ancient Oaks Trails. Reservations are species on this mountain top. required and will be accepted on or The (Sometimes) Green There will be a after May 30. Green Grass of Home short lunch break Karl Gohl Saturday • June 8 along the way. Black Mountain History Ride Monte Bello • 2mi Bring binoculars Sierra Azul Open 9:00am to 12:00pm Saturday • June 15 if you have them. Space Preserve Monte Bello • 22mi Do you know that California has a state Meet: Picchetti Ranch Stop In and Explore grass? Join docents Karen DeMello, Cathy 9:00am to 1:00pm Saturday and Sunday Brown,and Katherine Greene on a leisurely- June 22 and 23 paced walk in two adjacent Preserves Join docent Linda Wegner and trail patrol Daniels Nature Center where you’ll explore the importance and volunteer Glen Wegner to ride up paved 12:00noon to 5:00pm diversity – past and present – of grasses Montebello Road and then onto the fi re in open spaces and everyday lives. roads and single-track trails of Monte Bello Please see the activity listing for June 1. Preserve, including the Bella Vista and Stop In and Explore White Oaks Trails before heading back Historic Ranches Saturday and Sunday via the Stevens Canyon Trail. Experience Sunday • June 23 June 8 and 9 with longer rides and single-track trails is La Honda Creek • 6mi Daniels Nature Center required. Bring a power snack and water. Meet: Sears Ranch Road parking lot 12:00noon to 5:00pm Faster riders/climbers can start the ride 11:00am to 3:00pm with Glenn at 9:25am instead of 9:00am. Please see the activity listing for June 1. (Note: A portion of this ride will be on a Explore the rich history of ranching that took place in this beautiful Preserve public roadway with vehicle traffi c.) and that still continues today. Travel the Trail with docents Chris Stop In and Explore Christensen and Nora Sullivan, traversing Saturday and Sunday the sites of the Ray, Zanoni, Wool, Folger, June 15 and 16 and Driscoll ranches that operated in Daniels Nature Center these hills then climb to a distant ridge 12:00noon to 5:00pm offering spectacular views of the San

Jack Gescheidt Please see the activity listing for June 1. Gregorio watershed and the Pacifi c Ocean. Wildfl owers and cows are Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve expected along your route. 7 Ohlone Past and Present Stop In and Explore Sunday • June 30 Saturday and Sunday Skyline Ridge • 1mi July 6 and 7 Meet: Russian Ridge Daniels Nature Center 1:00pm to 3:30pm 12:00noon to 5:00pm The Ohlone lived in this area for thousands Please see the activity listing for June 1. of years before the arrival of Europeans. Experience a glimpse into the Ohlone way Earthquake Hike of life with docents Marie Faust Evitt, Ann Sunday • July 7 McCarty, and Chris Christensen through Los Trancos • 2.5mi Karl Gohl fun activities, stories, and a leisurely-paced 2:00pm to 4:30pm hike along the Alpine Loop and Old Page Join docents Strether Smith, Lyle Rice, Mill Road trails. Discover how modern-day and Nina Bell, and please see the Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve Ohlone descendants are working to rebuild activity description for June 2. their culture, knowledge, and traditions. Transitions: Exploring Capable, attentive children are welcome. Morning Serendipity Bring a snack to enjoy at Alpine Pond. Life Cycles Tuesday • July 9 Saturday • June 29 Monte Bello • 3.5mi El Corte de Madera Creek • 5.5mi 9:30am to 12:30pm 9:30am to 1:30pm Join docents John Seyfarth, Marie Faust Explore transitions in nature’s life cycles Evitt, and Mary Bernstein for a leisurely- with docents Catherine Crawford-Swent paced morning hike high above the and Marie Faust Evitt. Hiking through the valley. You’ll explore the many delights forest you’ll encounter ferns, wildfl owers, that nature has to offer along the Stevens Douglas fi r and redwood trees along Creek Nature and Canyon Trails below Sierra Morena, Oljon, Steam Donkey, the slopes of Black Mountain. You’ll and Methuselah Trails. You’ll discover how learn a little bit about local history new plants form, identify plant strategies OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES • SUMMER 2019 and earthquake geology, discover for survival, and how mature plants evolve wildfl owers, and look for animals or their and change. You’ll explore the profound signs – birds, mammals, salamanders, impact that the history of this Preserve slugs…Capable, attentive children had on area plant life. Perhaps you’ll 10 years and older are welcome. also discover corollaries with transitions in your own lives. Scenic Aerobic Hike

Pamela Dudzik Wednesday • July 10 Stop In and Explore Saratoga Gap • 4-6mi Saturday and Sunday Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve 10:00am to 1:00pm June 29 and 30 Daniels Nature Center Please see the activity description for 12:00noon to 5:00pm JULY June 12.

Please see the activity listing for June 1. Explorer Hike: Relics of Ranching Redwood Rambles Thursday • July 11 Search for the Everlasting Wednesday • July 3 Long Ridge • 11mi Sunday • June 30 Purisima Creek Redwoods • 5mi Meet: Skyline Ridge equestrian Picchetti Ranch • 4mi Meet: Purisima Creek Road entrance parking lot 10:00am to 3:00pm 10:30am to 2:30pm 10:00am to 3:00pm Join docents Bob Segalla, Paul Billig and Visit the beautiful redwoods and lush Discover history on horseback! Docent Steve Brugler to enjoy this Preserve close creekside vegetation of the lower portion Teri Baron with assistance from an to home. You’ll discover if the everlasting of the Purisima Creek Trail with docents equestrian trail patrol volunteer, will plant smells like maple syrup and fi nd a Laura Levin, Mary Brunkhorst, and Kate provide historical information about lovely view along the Orchard Loop and Gudmundson. You’ll enjoy a moderately- the ranchers in the area as you enjoy Zinfandel Trails. Listen to the sound of paced hike with a gentle climb of 500 feet the wonderful outdoors on your horse. Stevens Creek and eat your lunch at a while observing second growth redwoods Some of the trails on this leisurely-paced County Park picnic area. Capable children and learning about the logging history of ride with moderate elevation gain will welcome on this moderately-paced, 4-mile the area. Your lunch stop will be creekside include Chestnut and Long Ridge Trails. hike with a couple of 200-foot climbs. A along the Craig Britton Trail. Reservations Most of the ride will be in Long Ridge visit to the Picchetti Winery is optional are required and will be accepted on or Preserve. Reservations are required and (on your own) at the hike’s end. after June 19. will be accepted on or after June 27.

8 Shade and Water Beat the Summer Heat Friday • July 12 Sunday • July 14 Purisima Creek Redwoods • 5mi Pulgas Ridge • 3mi Meet: Purisima Creek 9:15am to 11:15am Road entrance 10:30am to 2:30pm Keep summer heat at bay by taking your canine companion out for a cool morning Enjoy the shade of redwood trees and adventure on this moderately-paced hike. the soothing sound of water in Purisima Dogs will enjoy the smells and owners the Creek on this out-and-back hike with sights along the Blue Oak, Hassler, and docents Marie-Anne Neimat and Polly Geraci Trails as docents Patty Lovelace

Judy Sencenbaugh. You’ll hike at a Dulce Pinegold and Dave Kocsis interpret the Preserve’s moderate pace on beautiful Purisima natural surroundings and “fl ea-ish” history Creek Trail and stop for lunch at a of people and place. All dogs must be on scenic spot along the Craig Britton leash; please be prepared carry out dog Trail. You’ll hear about the area‘s Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve waste. Reservations are required and logging history and why the unique will be accepted on or after July 1. Sequoia sempervirens (coast redwood) Introductory Geocaching Hike is protected now and considered the Wandering and Writing Saturday • July 13 most perfect tree on earth. Reservations Los Trancos • 2.5mi in Nature are required and will be accepted on 10:00am to 2:00pm Sunday • July 14 or after June 28. Long Ridge • 4.6mi Join docents Sarah Schoen, Ping Li, and 2:30pm to 6:00pm an REI Outdoor School Instructor to search Writers and philosophers across the ages for geocaches, or hidden treasures, using fi nd inspiration, wisdom, and peace in GPS units supplied by REI. This fun and nature. Join their ranks on this moderate interactive outing is great for all ages. hike along Peter’s Creek and Long Ridge You are encouraged to bring small trinkets Trails, accompanied by the words and (inexpensive children’s toys, less than spirits of others including John Muir, 2 inches in length are ideal) to use as Alice Walker, Aristotle. Share meanings OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES • SUMMER 2019 trade items for the cache. This activity and philosophies with fellow hikers and is an introduction to geocaching and is docents Anna Lee and Maureen Draper,

Gerri Tiernan geared toward the fi rst-time geocacher, then discover your own insights during a but all are welcome. (Note: This activity quiet contemplation break at the Wallace includes some off-trail hiking; long pants Stegner Bench. You are encouraged to are recommended and closed-toe shoes bring a journal, writing implement, Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve are required.) Reservations are required and/or your favorite nature quotes and will be accepted on or after April 13. to kindle refl ection and discussion. Literature, Lore, and Exploring the Baylands Life Sciences Signs of Summer Saturday • July 13 Thursday • July 18 Saturday • July 13 Ravenswood • 3mi Pulgas Ridge • 4.25mi Rancho San Antonio • 5mi 4:00pm to 6:00pm 9:00am to 12:00pm 8:00am to 11:30am Join docents Debbie Mytels and Naureen Join docents Liz Foreman and Helena Would a rose by any other name smell Moon for a late afternoon hike along Cohen, and please see the activity as sweet? Unpack the diverse symbolic trails at the edge of the Bay. You’ll discover description for June 6. and scientifi c meanings behind this how tides help specially adapted plants and other literary quotes from across survive in a salty environment, and you Morning Serendipity centuries and continents on a moderate may see some little-known creatures that Saturday • July 20 hike along many of this Preserve’s make wetlands among the most productive Monte Bello • 4mi popular trails. Docents Anna Lee and ecosystems on Earth. You’ll also learn 9:00am to 12:00pm Naureen Moon will guide you on an some colorful history of this Preserve and exploration of the ways nature has adjacent Cooley Landing Park. Bring or Join docents John Seyfarth and Catherine inspired literature and lore throughout wear layered clothing as it may be windy Crawford-Swent, and please see the history, and the ways that humans and cool here, even when it’s warm and activity description for July 9. make sense and meaning of nature. calm further inland! (Note: Arrive early to fi nd parking.) Stop In and Explore Saturday and Sunday Los Trancos July 13 and 14 Open Space Anna George Daniels Nature Center Preserve 12:00noon to 5:00pm Please see the activity listing for June 1. 9 Moth Night I Moth Night II July 20 • 2019 July 27 • 2019 AUGUST Monte Bello Monte Bello Stop In and Explore 8:30pm to 11:30pm 8:30pm to 11:30pm Saturday and Sunday The 8th annual National Moth Week is See the activity description for Moth Night 1 August 3 and 4 July 20-28. Join docents Debbi Brusco, on July 20. Reservations are required Daniels Nature Center Jack Owicki, Sara Witt, and friends to and will be accepted on or after July 13. 12:00noon to 5:00pm discover nocturnal moths and other Please see the activity listing for June 1. insects. You’ll observe beautiful and Stop In and Explore interesting critters attracted to a special Saturday and Sunday Redwood Oxygen July 27 and 28 light. Photography is encouraged, as Sunday • August 4 Daniels Nature Center is submission of photo observations to Purisima Creek Redwoods • 5.3mi 12:00noon to 5:00pm iNaturalist (a biodiversity community Meet: Purisima Creek Road entrance science repository). Bring a flashlight Please see the activity listing for June 1. 10:30am to 2:30pm with red filter/cellophane covering, Experience how the redwoods surround your camera, and close-focus binoculars Hiking and Mindfulness if you have them. (Note: This activity is you with serenity on a fine day and you’ll Sunday • July 28 restricted to the parking lot – no hiking; breathe in some of the cleanest air in the Purisima Creek Redwoods • 4.8mi participants have the option to leave world with docents Bob Segalla, Sam Meet: Purisima Creek Road entrance earlier than scheduled end time. Berry, and Catherine Crawford-Swent 10:00am to 2:00pm See www.nationalmothweek.org.) while hiking on the Purisima Creek and Reservations are required and will Escape in to the forest on a moderately- Craig Britton Trails. This moderately- be accepted on or after July 6. paced hike where you’ll be taught valuable paced, 5.3-mile, 500-foot elevation mindfulness strategies while tapping in to change hike is suitable for capable Stop In and Explore the healing and calming powers of nature. children and has a downhill return. Saturday and Sunday Join docents, Diane Maez, Ann McCarty, Reservations are required and will July 20 and 21 and Marie Faust Evitt on an incredible be accepted on or after July 21. Daniels Nature Center day of exercise and relaxation. Please bring your lunch and something to sit on. Earthquake Hike OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES • SUMMER 2019 12:00noon to 5:00pm Reservations are required and will be Sunday • August 4 Please see the activity listing for June 1. accepted on or before July 14. Los Trancos • 2mi 2:00pm to 4:30pm Birds of the Bayside CANCELED* View from the Ridge Saturday • July 27 Sunday • July 28 Join docents John Seyfarth and Lindsay Ravenswood • 2.4mi Long Ridge • 5mi Joye, and please see the activity 9:30am to 11:45am 10:00am to 3:00pm description for June 2. “Snow birds,” also known as winter visitors, Join docents Bob Segalla and Helena Cohen Explorer Hike: New Horizons have departed for northern breeding to explore what this beautiful Preserve has Wednesday • August 7 grounds leaving local, non-migratory to offer. You may observe newts along the Bear Creek Redwoods • 5mi dabblers and waders. With docents lush Peters Creek Trail and enjoy a tranquil 10:30am to 2:30pm Frances Reneau, Helena Cohen, and pond, green forests, ridges, and grasslands. Lyle Rice you’ll learn to identify some You’ll also stop for an ocean view at the Come satisfy your curiosity about a recently aquatically inclined avian neighbors – Wallace Stegner Bench on the Long Ridge opened area of this Preserve nestled in herons, grebes, coots, and ducks, as Trail. This moderately-paced, 5-mile, the Santa Cruz Mountains. You’ll enjoy well as terrestrial birds that enjoy salt 600-foot elevation change is suitable for exploring some of the new trails with air as much as capable children. docents Kate Gudmundson, Mary Brunkhorst, humans. All are Dennis Smith, and Laura Levin, and walk welcome, from among towering redwoods and along neophyte birders babbling brooks on this leisurely-paced to experienced hike. You’ll learn about regional geology, an birders ready to important local watershed, logging history, mentor. Please bring historic cultural uses, and more. You’ll binoculars and/or also see first hand some of the interpretive spotting scopes. Yamil Saenz elements and access amenities that have The path is wide been added to this beautiful setting. and flat offering fantastic views Signs of Summer on a clear day. Thursday • August 8 Pulgas Ridge • 4.25mi

Yamil Saenz Yamil 9:00am to 12:00pm Ravenswood Open Space Preserve Yamil Saenz Join docents Liz Foreman and Toni Gooch, * CANCELED – Due to and please see the activity description for construction work. June 6. 10 Jaunting with Giants Three Preserve Tour Stop In and Explore Saturday • August 10 Thursday • August 22 Saturday and Sunday Bear Creek Redwoods • 4-5mi Skyline Ridge • 14mi August 24 and 25 2:00pm to 5:00pm Meet: Equestrian parking lot Daniels Nature Center 9:30am to 3:30pm 12:00noon to 5:00pm Enjoy a moderately-paced hiking adventure and make new discoveries. Travel the trails with docent Teri Baron Please see the activity listing for June 1. Surrounded by venerable redwood trees (and assistance from an equestrian trail and guided by docents Chris MacIntosh patrol volunteer) on a ride to explore three and Maureen Draper you’ll learn about amazing open spaces preserves – Skyline the natural and cultural history signifi cance Ridge, Monte Bello, and Long Ridge, with of this Preserve as you explore a recently an additional county park visit along the opened section and the new Alma Trail. way. You’ll ride through almost every The route includes several steep intervals habitat type found in the Santa Cruz and gradual climbs. Mountains. Trails on this moderately- paced ride (with lots of up and down Stop In and Explore sections) include White Oak, Canyon, Saturday and Sunday and Chestnut Trails. Reservations are August 10 and 11 required and will be accepted on or Daniels Nature Center after August 8. Jack Gescheidt 12:00noon to 5:00pm Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve Enchanting Purisima Please see the activity listing for June 1. Friday • August 23 Bats of Alpine Pond Scenic Aerobic Hike Purisima Creek Redwoods • 4.6mi Meet: Purisima Creek Road entrance Sunday • August 25 Wednesday • August 14 9:30am to 1:30pm Skyline Ridge • 1.5mi Bear Creek Redwoods • 4-6mi Meet: Russian Ridge 10:00am to 1:00pm Come and enjoy this beautiful, serene 6:15pm to 8:45pm preserve in the heat of summer. Unwind Please see the activity description for amongst the magnifi cent redwoods, lush Join docents Karen DeMello and Jan June 12. OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES • SUMMER 2019 green ferns, and late summer wildfl owers Hintermeister to dispel some myths and with your welcoming docents Farhana learn some facts about the world’s most Stop In and Explore Kazi, and Bill and Marilyn Bauriedel. misunderstood mammal: the bat. As the Saturday and Sunday You’ll be graced with a meandering creek sun goes down, you’ll linger near the August 17 and 18 accompanying you along the Purisima Daniels Nature Center to see whether Daniels Nature Center Creek Trail up to the Craig Britton Trail, bats appear over Alpine Pond, returning 12:00noon to 5:00pm and may be joined by banana slugs still to your car before darkness sets in. Bring Please see the activity listing for June 1. active in late season and sheltering in binoculars if you have them. the shade. This hike route will have a Hiking and Mindfulness 400-foot elevation gain. Sweet Smells of Summer Sunday • August 18 Friday • August 30 Monte Bello • 4.5mi Arachnophilia! Picchetti Ranch • 4.5mi 10:00am to 2:00pm 10:00am to 2:00pm Saturday • August 24 Monte Bello • 4mi Join docents, Diane Maez, Ann McCarty Many of late summer’s drying plants are 5:00pm to 10:30pm and Marie Faust Evitt, and please see the delightfully aromatic. Open your olfactory activity description for July 28. Explore the world of arachnids with senses while exploring the wonders spider-loving docents Debbi Brusco, of nature with docents Gerri Tiernan, Jack Owicki, and Sara Witt. With luck, and Bill and Marilyn Bauriedel on this a tarantula may cross your path as you moderately-paced hike along the Orchard search for often timid creatures that you Loop and Zinfandel Trails. You’ll hike to might usually be inclined to avoid. You’ll adjoining Stevens Creek County Park for hike at a leisurely pace along the Canyon a brief lunch break at picnic tables before Trail in addition to other trails, with an returning on the Zinfandel Trail. A visit to elevation gain of up to 600 feet. Capable, historic Picchetti Winery is optional (on attentive children 10 years and older are your own) at hikes’s end. welcome. Bring a fl ashlight (with a red fi lter or cellophane cover if you have it), Stop In and Explore and something to sit on. Reservations Saturday and Sunday

Daniel Frank are required and will be accepted on August 31 and September 1 or after August 10. Daniels Nature Center 12:00noon to 5:00pm Please see the activity listing for Monte Bello Open Space Preserve June 1.

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