Enjoy the many free Outdoor Activities on Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District preserves. All activities are led by trained volunteer docents and are free of charge. Some activities require reservations. Please refer to the Reservation Information page for full details.

Reservation Process:

Reservations for a given activity are only accepted within the two-week time period prior to the activity date. The maximum number of people allowed for a group reservation is four (4) people. The online reservation forms activate in the individual listings two weeks prior to the date of the activity.

• If your plans have changed after you have made a reservation and you are no longer able to attend, please let us know so that we can release your reservation to someone else.
  
  
• For all activities, heavy rain at the activity location will cancel that activity. In the event of light rain or the threat of rain, the docent will make the decision at the designated meeting time and location.
  
  
• Emails and voicemails regarding activities are not monitored after hours or over the weekends, but will be processed the next business day.

--June 2013--

Wednesday • June 19
El Corte de Madera Creek [See Where to Meet]
10:30 am – 2:00 pm
“Explorer Hike – Find the Tafoni”
Enjoy a mid-summer 4- to 5-mile hike with docents Lynn Jackson, Bill Korbholz, Laura Levin, and Dennis Smith as you explore the varied habitats of this Preserve. You’ll visit an unusual tafoni sandstone formation and lunch at a beautiful vista point.

Thursday • June 20 
Saratoga Gap–Long Ridge
Meet: Saratoga Gap [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
“Third Thursday: Saratoga Gap”
Shady woodlands, spectacular views, and the telling of a dubious legend will be the high points of this summer excursion with docents Tommi and Strether Smith. The 4.5-mile hike will explore the Saratoga Gap and Achistaca Trails loop with a short detour to Turtle Rock for the views, the legend, and lunch.

Saturday • June 22
Long Ridge [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
“Ohlone Medicine”
Native Americans, including California Indians, had a great number of uses for the plants growing on their lands with the primary use being medicinal. Join docents Sarah Schoen and Mike Alexander on this 5-mile hike exploring the Peters Creek and Long Ridge Trails, with a lunch stop overlooking the western slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Learn ways that selected native plants were used to treat a number of ailments before the introduction of modern medicine.

Saturday • June 22
[Click here to make a reservation]
Purisima Creek Redwoods [See Where to Meet]
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
“Purisima Sampler”
This 3-mile hike will be an introduction to the redwoods (or a stroll among old tree friends) accompanied by docents Sam Berry and Lynn Jackson. After the redwoods hike there will be an optional drive to, and walk along the coastal bluffs that will include a view of Purisima Creek entering the ocean. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after June 6.

Saturday • June 22
Fremont Older [See Where to Meet]
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
“Day’s End Hike”
(Join docents Mary Ann Frank and Kandis Scott, and please see the activity description for June 8.)

Saturday and Sunday June 22 and 23
Daniels Nature Center [See Where to Meet]
12:00 noon – 5:00 pm
“Stop In and Explore”
A summer outing awaits you…bring family and friends to visit the Daniels Nature Center on Saturdays and Sundays this summer between 12:00 noon and 5:00 pm. You can enjoy an audio nature tour hike (listening devices are available to “check out”), view displays about natural communities and larger-than-life pond strata mobiles, study live aquatic organisms “borrowed” from Alpine Pond with the assistance of a docent, or enjoy a picnic with your companions on nearby tables (pack out your own trash please). The living is easy – come and see!

Sunday • June 23
[Click here to make a reservation]
La Honda Creek
Meet: See text below [See Where to Meet]
10:30 am – 4:30 pm
“Exploring Driscoll Ranch”
Explore a limited access area of this Preserve to look for critters, especially those that hop and slither, with docents Debbi Brusco and Lynn Jackson. You’ll hike uphill in open grassland 4- to 5-miles at a leisurely pace. There will be extended stops to observe and learn about restoration efforts conducted by the District to enhance pond habitat for fauna and for watershed protection. Bring a packed lunch, binoculars if you have them, and plastic to sit on. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after June 6. Directions to the meeting location will be mailed or e-mailed to you.

Sunday • June 23
[Click here to make a reservation]
Skyline Ridge
Meet: Russian Ridge [See Where to Meet]
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
“Living with Lions”
The primary focus of this educational outing is a luncheon lecture on the landmark analysis of 185 mountain lion attacks on humans in America. You’ll learn science-based guidelines for how you should and should not behave for safe visits to lion territory. Docents Keith Johnsgård and Steve Brugler will lead an informative 2-mile natural history stroll in the Alpine Pond vicinity before lunch. (Note: This activity is not suitable for children.) Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after June 6.

Friday • June 28 
[Click here to make a reservation]
Monte Bello [See Where to Meet]
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
“Monte Bello Evening Hike”
The San Andreas Fault runs along the base of Monte Bello Ridge, of which Black Mountain is the highest point at 2,812 feet. Join docents Linda and Glen Wegner, Patty Lovelace, and Earl Girbovan on a brisk hike to explore the vistas while hiking the 6 miles round trip, 600-foot gain to the top of Black Mountain. The return trip will be after dark (bring warm layered clothing, and a flashlight with a red cellophane covering). You’ll experience a series of “quiet” breaks to appreciate the night sounds far away from the city below. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after June 13.

Saturday and Sunday June 29 and 30
Daniels Nature Center [See Where to Meet]
12:00 noon – 5:00 pm
“Stop In and Explore”
A summer outing awaits you…bring family and friends to visit the Daniels Nature Center on Saturdays and Sundays this summer between 12:00 noon and 5:00 pm. You can enjoy an audio nature tour hike (listening devices are available to “check out”), view displays about natural communities and larger-than-life pond strata mobiles, study live aquatic organisms “borrowed” from Alpine Pond with the assistance of a docent, or enjoy a picnic with your companions on nearby tables (pack out your own trash please). The living is easy – come and see!

Sunday • June 30
Long Ridge [See Where to Meet]
8:30 am – 11:30 am
“Wandering and Wondering”
Catch the morning view from the top of this Preserve with docent Kay Rodriques. Gaze westward upon thousands of acres of forested canyons, hills, and grassy ridges as you look toward the Pacific Ocean. Along the way on this 4.6-mile, moderately-paced hike via the Long Ridge and Peters Creek Trails, you can perhaps track some of the Preserve’s animals – coyotes, deer, and wild turkeys – before a stop for a light snack at the Wallace Stegner memorial bench. Remember to bring a windbreaker – it can get chilly at this ridge-top location!

--July 2013--

Saturday • July 6
Picchetti Ranch [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
“Search for the Everlasting”
Join docents Bob Segalla and Greg Azevedo and enjoy the excitement of this Preserve so close to home. A lovely view awaits you along the Orchard Loop and Zinfandel Trails. You’ll listen to the sound of Stevens Creek as you enjoy lunch at a Santa Clara County Park picnic area, and along the way you’ll decide if the everlasting plant smells like maple syrup to you! Capable children can handle this moderately-paced, 4-mile hike with a couple of 200-foot elevation gains. A visit to the Picchetti Winery for wine tasting is optional (on your own) at the hike’s end.

Saturday • July 6
Los Trancos [See Where to Meet]
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
“Water Music and Buddha”
Docents Keith Johnsgård and Jenny Whitman will lead this shaded 3-mile walk beneath the towering forest canopies of the Franciscan and Lost Creek Trails, a silent world filled only with fresh forest fragrances and occasional bird songs. You’ll stop at the Preserve’s low elevation halfway point for a rest and lunch with water music, and you’ll pass below the reclusive Trailside Buddha on your ascending return trip.

Saturday and Sunday July 6 and 7
Daniels Nature Center [See Where to Meet]
12:00 noon – 5:00 pm
“Stop In and Explore”
A summer outing awaits you…bring family and friends to visit the Daniels Nature Center on Saturdays and Sundays this summer between 12:00 noon and 5:00 pm. You can enjoy an audio nature tour hike (listening devices are available to “check out”), view displays about natural communities and larger-than-life pond strata mobiles, study live aquatic organisms “borrowed” from Alpine Pond with the assistance of a docent, or enjoy a picnic with your companions on nearby tables (pack out your own trash please). The living is easy – come and see!

Sunday • July 7 
Los Trancos [See Where to Meet]
2:00 pm – 4:30 pm
“Earthquake Walk”
Join docents Strether Smith and Kathyrn Strachota for a fun and educational hike along the San Andreas Fault. On this 2- to 3-mile stroll, you’ll discuss the wonder of plate tectonics, examine remnants left by thousands of major earthquakes, and learn how to prepare for future earthquakes.

Tuesday • July 9
Pulgas Ridge [See Where to Meet]
9:30 am – 12:30 pm
“Signs of Summer”
Join docents Liz Foreman and Lina Mesa to enjoy late wildflowers and blooming bushes on the Blue Oak, Dusky-footed Woodrat, and Cordilleras Creek Trails. This 4.5-mile hike will have a moderate pace with hills, an 800-foot elevation gain, and uneven terrain in places.

Wednesday • July 10            
Saratoga Gap [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 12:00 noon
“Scenic Aerobic Hike”
(Please see the activity description for June 12.)

Friday • July 12
Windy Hill [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
“Circumnavigate Windy Hill”
Explore most of this Preserve with docents Ed North and Noa Doitel by hiking the Spring Ridge Trail (will you see turtles in Sausal Pond?), Eagle Trail, and up to the top of Windy Hill via the Razorback Ridge Trail. You’ll have great views of the bay from the Lost and Anniversary Trails. You’ll return by way of the Spring Ridge and Betsy Crowder Trails. This vigorously-paced hike is about 9.5 miles with over 1,000 feet of elevation gain.

Saturday • July 13
Monte Bello
Meet: Picchetti Ranch [See Where to Meet]
9:30 am – 1:00 pm
“Ride Up and Around Black Mountain”
This 3.5-hour ride with docents Linda and Glenn Wegner will traverse fire roads, single-track trails (including the new White Oaks Trail) and take riders down Stevens Canyon in the loop back to your starting point at Picchetti Ranch Preserve. Beginning with a 5-mile leg up Montebello Road, the overall ride will have 3,000 feet of climbing and cover about 20 miles (8 miles of which are on paved roads). An option for faster riders is to leave with docent Glenn at 9:45 am for a quick ascent up to Monte Bello Preserve and access to Black Mountain. 

Saturday • July 13
Monte Bello [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
“Monte Bello to Black Mountain”
Join docent Martin Manley on a moderately paced 7-mile hike to escape the valley heat and experience the interesting geology and plants of this beautiful preserve via the Bella Vista and Stevens Creek Nature Trails. You’ll enjoy a great view of the San Andreas Fault and discuss the effects it has had on the landscape. You’ll descend the shaded canyon next to Stevens Creek to look for wildflowers and the California newt in its local habitat. You’ll also climb to the summit of Black Mountain for a fabulous view over a wide swath of the peninsula, and take a lunch break at the top.

Saturday and Sunday July 13 and 14
Daniels Nature Center [See Where to Meet]
12:00 noon – 5:00 pm
“Stop In and Explore”
A summer outing awaits you…bring family and friends to visit the Daniels Nature Center on Saturdays and Sundays this summer between 12:00 noon and 5:00 pm. You can enjoy an audio nature tour hike (listening devices are available to “check out”), view displays about natural communities and larger-than-life pond strata mobiles, study live aquatic organisms “borrowed” from Alpine Pond with the assistance of a docent, or enjoy a picnic with your companions on nearby tables (pack out your own trash please). The living is easy – come and see!

Sunday • July 14
Monte Bello [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
“Roam to Breathe”
The 40th anniversary celebration of the District continues with a moderate hike through the Stevens Creek watershed at Monte Bello Preserve. Docents Paul Billig and Steve Brugler will give you a brief history of the founding of the District before you descend into the forest. This loop hike along the Stevens Creek Nature Trail and the White Oak Trail will cover about 3.5 miles with around 400 feet of climbing.

Wednesday • July 17
Coal Creek [See Where to Meet]
10:30 am – 2:00 pm
“Explorer Hike: Fruits to Nuts”
With the arrival of summer, you’ll turn your attention from flowers to fruits and nuts and explore the relatively cooler north-facing slopes of Coal Creek Preserve. Join docents Bill Korbholz, Lynn Jackson, and Laura Levin on this 3- to 4-mile, slow-paced hike.

Thursday • July 18
El Corte de Madera Creek [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
“Third Thursday: ECdM”
A spectacular tafoni sandstone formation and a famous aircraft crash site will be the prime destinations of this moderately-paced, 5-mile hike led by docents Tommi and Strether Smith. Along the way, you’ll be looking for summer flora in this beautiful and heavily forested area. Bring a lunch to enjoy at a scenic rest spot.

Saturday • July 20
Fremont Older [See Where to Meet]
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
"Day's End Hike"
Enjoy the pleasure of hiking on a summer evening with docents Mary Ann Frank and Kandis Scott. This moderately-paced, 2.5-mile hike along the Bay View and Seven Springs Trail will include talking about the Preserve history, and a vista stop to enjoy the views and a snack. Dogs are welcome on this hike and must be well-socialized and leashed; owners will need to bag and remove any dog waste.

Saturday • July 20     
Los Trancos [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
“Introductory Geocaching Family Hike”
This fun and interactive outing is great for families and children (who can hike for 3 miles). Join docents Sarah Schoen, Christina Fusco, and an REI Outdoor School instructor to search for geocaches, or hidden treasures, using GPS units supplied by REI (or you can bring your own units). Bring small trinkets to trade for objects you’ll find in the caches. This activity is an introduction to geocaching and is geared toward the first-time geocacher. (Note: This activity includes some off-Trail hiking; long pants are recommended.) Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after July 3.

Saturday and Sunday July 20 and 21
Daniels Nature Center [See Where to Meet]
12:00 noon – 5:00 pm
“Stop In and Explore”
A summer outing awaits you…bring family and friends to visit the Daniels Nature Center on Saturdays and Sundays this summer between 12:00 noon and 5:00 pm. You can enjoy an audio nature tour hike (listening devices are available to “check out”), view displays about natural communities and larger-than-life pond strata mobiles, study live aquatic organisms “borrowed” from Alpine Pond with the assistance of a docent, or enjoy a picnic with your companions on nearby tables (pack out your own trash please). The living is easy – come and see!

Sunday • July 21  
Skyline Ridge
Meet: Skyline Ridge equestrian parking lot [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
“Ride Russian Ridge”
Join docents Lyndall Erb and Jenny Whitman to ride Russian Ridge Preserve and see the Bay Area from a whole new perspective. This horseback excursion will mainly be at a walking pace with some trotting and occasional stops to enjoy nature and the view. Youth riders under 18 must be accompanied by an adult and are required to wear a helmet. (Note: This activity is designed for equestrians who have their own horse; horses are not provided.) Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after July 3.

Sunday • July 21            
Los Trancos [See Where to Meet]
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
“Our Own Fault”
Hear the story of how California emerged from the sea during America’s 200 million year westward voyage, how the San Andreas Fault was formed and subsequent earthquakes shaped the landscape, and how a chunk of California will one day become a coastal island on a journey northward toward Alaska. Docents Keith Johnsgård and Christina Fusco will lead this 2.5-mile outdoor moving classroom. (Note: This activity is designed specifically for adults and is not suitable for children). Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after July 3.

Wednesday • July 24
Long Ridge [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 12:00 noon
“Scenic Aerobic Hike”
Join docents Stella Yang and Stephen Buckhout for 2-hour workouts in a variety of shadier preserves this summer. These hikes are moderately paced with infrequent stops.

Friday • July 26      
Edgewood County Park [See Where to Meet]
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
“TGIF Hike”
Celebrate the end of the week by joining docents Robin and Les Wrigley for a vigorously paced 5-mile hike. You’ll hike the Sylvan Trail, across to Serpentine Loop Trail, and return downhill on Edgewood Trail. There will be an optional (no host) dinner with your hiking companions at a local restaurant at the hike’s end.

Saturday and Sunday July 27 and 28
Daniels Nature Center [See Where to Meet]
12:00 noon – 5:00 pm
“Stop In and Explore”
A summer outing awaits you…bring family and friends to visit the Daniels Nature Center on Saturdays and Sundays this summer between 12:00 noon and 5:00 pm. You can enjoy an audio nature tour hike (listening devices are available to “check out”), view displays about natural communities and larger-than-life pond strata mobiles, study live aquatic organisms “borrowed” from Alpine Pond with the assistance of a docent, or enjoy a picnic with your companions on nearby tables (pack out your own trash please). The living is easy – come and see!

Sunday • July 28
Monte Bello [See Where to Meet]
Meet: Picchetti Ranch
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
" Waterwheel Downhill”
Join docents Dave Kocsis and Collin Lim for a high-intermediate, 18-mile mountain bike ride. You’ll carpool from Picchetti Ranch Preserve to the beautiful Waterwheel Creek Trail and ride most of the single track and fire roads in Monte Bello Preserve before heading out to Stevens Canyon Road and back to your carpool location. The route is mostly downhill (about a 2,200-foot net descent), but riders will climb more than 1,700 feet along the way. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after July 11. (Note: Participants will carpool to the trailhead.)

--August 2013--

Saturday • August 3
Monte Bello [See Where to Meet]
11:00 am – 3:30 pm
“Cool at the Top”
Breathtaking views await you as you ascend Black Mountain with docents Bob Segalla and Greg Azevedo on the Bella Vista Trail. You’ll learn how Mountain View got its name and many other interesting things. Look forward to seeing evidence of the 1906 earthquake while returning on the San Andreas Fault Trail. This moderately-paced, 4-mile, 400-foot elevation change hike is suitable for capable children.

Saturday and Sunday August 3 and 4
Daniels Nature Center [See Where to Meet]
12:00 noon – 5:00 pm
“Stop In and Explore”
A summer outing awaits you…bring family and friends to visit the Daniels Nature Center on Saturdays and Sundays this summer between 12:00 noon and 5:00 pm. You can enjoy an audio nature tour hike (listening devices are available to “check out”), view displays about natural communities and larger-than-life pond strata mobiles, study live aquatic organisms “borrowed” from Alpine Pond with the assistance of a docent, or enjoy a picnic with your companions on nearby tables (pack out your own trash please). The living is easy – come and see!

Sunday • August 4
Skyline Ridge [See Where to Meet]
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
“Silent Forest – Still Waters”
Join docents Keith Johnsgård and Jenny Whitman for a mostly shaded 2.5-mile leisurely hike and picnic at Horseshoe Lake. After skirting the lake, you’ll climb the Fir Knoll Trail up the ridge (a 250-foot elevation gain) to visit a breathtaking grove of enormous towering Douglas fir trees. You’ll then loop back down to the lake’s interior picnic area for lunch beneath beautiful old canyon oaks.

Sunday • August 4
Los Trancos [See Where to Meet]
2:00 pm – 4:30 pm
“Earthquake Walk”
Join docent Paul Billig for a fun and educational hike along the San Andreas Fault. On this 2- to 3-mile stroll, you’ll discuss the wonder of plate tectonics, examine remnants left by thousands of major earthquakes, and learn how to prepare for future earthquakes.

Tuesday • August 6
Pulgas Ridge [See Where to Meet]
9:00 am – 12:00 noon
“Exploring the Chaparral and Woodlands”
Join docents Liz Foreman and Lina Mesa to discover the dusky footed wood-rat nests, native trees, and blooming bushes on the Blue Oak, Dusky-footed Woodrat, and Cordilleras Creek Trails. This 4.5-mile hike will have a moderate pace with hills, an elevation gain of 800 feet, and some uneven terrain.

Thursday • August 8
Purisima Creek Redwoods [See Where to Meet]
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
“Easy Afternoon”
It’s August, and maybe it’s hot where you are… an easy shaded stroll may be just the outing you need. You’ll find coolness in the redwoods, and confer on a distance pleasing to all participants – maybe 3, 4, or 5 miles. Docents Sam Berry and Kandis Scott will be informative about the nature and history of the area, and allow time for quiet reflection too. Come to the coast and enjoy a leisurely walk!

Saturday and Sunday August 10 and 11
Daniels Nature Center [See Where to Meet]
12:00 noon – 5:00 pm
“Stop In and Explore”
A summer outing awaits you…bring family and friends to visit the Daniels Nature Center on Saturdays and Sundays this summer between 12:00 noon and 5:00 pm. You can enjoy an audio nature tour hike (listening devices are available to “check out”), view displays about natural communities and larger-than-life pond strata mobiles, study live aquatic organisms “borrowed” from Alpine Pond with the assistance of a docent, or enjoy a picnic with your companions on nearby tables (pack out your own trash please). The living is easy – come and see!

Wednesday • August 14
Picchetti Ranch [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 12:00 noon
“Scenic Aerobic Hike”
Join docents Stella Yang and Stephen Buckhout for 2-hour workouts in a variety of shadier preserves this summer. These hikes are moderately paced with infrequent stops.

Friday • August 16
Pulgas Ridge [See Where to Meet]
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
“TGIF Hike”
Celebrate the end of the week by joining Robin and les Wrigley for a vigorously paced 5-mile hike. You’ll hike the Blue Oak, Dick Bishop, and Hassler Trails before descending the Dusky-footed Woodrat and Cordilleras Trails. There will be an optional (no host) dinner with your hiking companions at a local restaurant at the hikes end.

Saturday • August 17
Monte Bello [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
“Monte Bello to Black Mountain”
Join docents Martin Manley and Linda Smith on a moderately paced 7-mile hike to escape the valley heat and experience the interesting geology and plants of this beautiful preserve via the Bella Vista and Stevens Creek Nature Trails. You’ll enjoy a great view of the San Andreas Fault and discuss the effects it has had on the landscape. You’ll descend the shaded canyon next to Stevens Creek to look for wildflowers and the California newt in its local habitat. You’ll also climb to the summit of Black Mountain for a fabulous view over a wide swath of the peninsula, and take a lunch break at the top.

Saturday • August 17
Monte Bello [See Where to Meet]
Meet: Skyline Ridge equestrian parking lot
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
“Ride Monte Bello”
This horseback excursion with docents Lyndall Erb and Jenny Whitman will ride from Skyline Ridge Preserve through Monte Bello Preserve. Youth riders under 18 must be accompanied by an adult and are required to wear a helmet. (Note: This activity is designed for equestrians who have their own horse; horses are not provided.) Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after August 1.

Saturday and Sunday August 17 and 18
Daniels Nature Center [See Where to Meet]
12:00 noon – 5:00 pm
“Stop In and Explore”
A summer outing awaits you…bring family and friends to visit the Daniels Nature Center on Saturdays and Sundays this summer between 12:00 noon and 5:00 pm. You can enjoy an audio nature tour hike (listening devices are available to “check out”), view displays about natural communities and larger-than-life pond strata mobiles, study live aquatic organisms “borrowed” from Alpine Pond with the assistance of a docent, or enjoy a picnic with your companions on nearby tables (pack out your own trash please). The living is easy – come and see!

Sunday • August 18  
Skyline Ridge [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 1:00 pm
“Skyline Ridge: Natural Communities Sampler”
Explore the natural communities of this diverse preserve. Observe the summer adornment put on around Horseshoe Lake, and by the grasslands, chaparral, and woodland habitats as docents Cathy Brown, Madeline Brane, and John Wertzler help you learn about the uniqueness of each community and appreciate the seasonal character too. This is a 4-mile, moderately-paced outing.

Sunday • August 18
Skyline Ridge-Russian Ridge-Coal Creek-Monte Bello
Meet: Skyline Ridge [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
“Four Preserves Ride”
Join docent Dave Kocsis for a ride encompassing a four preserve circuit of Skyline Ridge, Russian Ridge, Coal Creek, and Monte Bello Preserves. Experience what each of the Preserves has to offer while meandering up and down (approximately 2,000 feet of total climbing) over approximately 11 miles total distance on fire roads and single track, and with a small bit of pavement riding. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after August 1.

Sunday • August 18
Skyline Ridge
Meet: Russian Ridge [See Where to Meet]
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
“Ethnobotany 101: The Ohlone Way”
Docents Keith Johnsgård and Harry Cornbleet will lead this leisurely two-hour stroll in the Alpine Pond vicinity acquainting you with the Ohlone Indian way of life by pointing out plants they used for hunting, fishing, basketry, food, medicine, music, magic, and mischief. Lunch features a talk on the amazing unfolding history of humans in America. (Note: This activity is not suitable for children.) Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after August 1.

Wednesday • August 21
Purisima Creek Redwoods [See Where to Meet]
10:30 am – 2:00 pm
“Explorer Hike: Be Cool, Get Cool”
Escape the heat and join docents Lynn Jackson, Laura Levin, and Bill Korbholz as you enjoy the coolness of second growth redwoods along Purisima Creek. This will be a 3- to 5-mile, moderately-paced exploratory hike at one of the District’s most beautiful preserves.

Wednesday • August 21
Pulgas Ridge [See Where to Meet]
6:00 am – 8:00 am
“Sunrise Hike”
Join docents Susan Bernard and Noa Doitel to greet the sunrise at Pulgas Ridge Preserve. This 4.2-mile hike will start promptly in order to make it to the sunrise viewing spot. Your round-trip excursion will travel along the Blue Oak, Dick Bishop, and Dusky-footed Woodrat Trails. Bring a breakfast snack to enjoy while you spend a little time enjoying the start of a new day.

Thursday • August 22
Purisima Creek Redwoods [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 4:30 pm
“Redwoods: Root to Canopy”
This 7-mile hike with docents Sam Berry, Steve Brugler, and Noa Doitel along the Purisima Creek, Soda Gulch, and Harkins Ridge Trails will take you above many of the redwoods into the open chaparral then back to the cool of the forest. You’ll actually see a portion of the redwood root system and discuss the difference of the canopies of the old growth and new growth trees.

Friday • August 23
Skyline Ridge – Russian Ridge
Meet: Skyline Ridge [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 2:30 pm
“Two Ponds, a Hill, and a Farm”
Hike through Skyline Ridge Preserve exploring the areas around Alpine Pond, Horseshoe Lake, and the Christmas tree farm with docents Ed North and Emma Finter. You’ll sample Russian Ridge Preserve too with a quick view of the bay from Borel Hill. This is a fast paced 8-mile hike with about 600 feet of elevation gain.

Saturday • August 24
Skyline Ridge
Meet: Russian Ridge [See Where to Meet]
6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
“The Bats at Alpine Pond”
Join docents Karen DeMello and Jan Hintermeister to learn some facts and dispel some myths about the world’s most misunderstood mammal: the bat. As the sun goes down, you’ll hang out near Daniels Nature Center to see whether bats appear over Alpine Pond, returning to your car before darkness sets in. This activity involves a 1.5-mile round-trip walk. Bring binoculars if you have them.

Saturday and Sunday August 24 and 25
Daniels Nature Center [See Where to Meet]
12:00 noon – 5:00 pm
“Stop In and Explore”
A summer outing awaits you…bring family and friends to visit the Daniels Nature Center on Saturdays and Sundays this summer between 12:00 noon and 5:00 pm. You can enjoy an audio nature tour hike (listening devices are available to “check out”), view displays about natural communities and larger-than-life pond strata mobiles, study live aquatic organisms “borrowed” from Alpine Pond with the assistance of a docent, or enjoy a picnic with your companions on nearby tables (pack out your own trash please). The living is easy – come and see!

Sunday • August 25
Rancho San Antonio [See Where to Meet]
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
“Beginning Birding Hike”
Docents Amy and Mike Sanchez will show you how to spot and identify local birds. You’ll walk at a moderate pace on this 2.5-mile trek with stops at trail intersections and at special points of interest only. You’ll explore the Rogue Valley and Chamise Trails. (Note: Arrive early to find parking.) Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after August 8.

Sunday • August 25
Los Trancos [See Where to Meet]
8:30 am – 11:30 am
“Hooo’s There”
On this 3.5-mile hike with docents Marilyn and Bill Bauriedel, and June Cancell you’ll learn about the many creatures that call Los Trancos Preserve their home, including the Dusky-footed woodrat and its “entourage” of birds, insects, other mammals, and reptiles that rely on the woodrat’s stick house for protection, shelter, and food. While you are unlikely to see these animals on day hikes, nature tracking cameras have documented their presence in some of the preserves. You’ll learn about the results of this behavioral research that is happening in the Santa Cruz Mountains. If it’s a hot day, you’ll enjoy walking on the cooler woodland trails and deep shade at the bottom of canyons. You’ll hike along the Franciscan Loop, Lost Creek Loop, and Page Mill Trails.

Wednesday • August 28
Monte Bello [See Where to Meet]
10:00 am – 12:00 noon
“Scenic Aerobic Hike”
Join docents Stella Yang and Stephen Buckhout for 2-hour workouts in a variety of shadier preserves this summer. These hikes are moderately paced with infrequent stops.

Saturday and Sunday August 31 and September 1
Daniels Nature Center [See Where to Meet]
12:00 noon – 5:00 pm
“Stop In and Explore”
A summer outing awaits you…bring family and friends to visit the Daniels Nature Center on Saturdays and Sundays this summer between 12:00 noon and 5:00 pm. You can enjoy an audio nature tour hike (listening devices are available to “check out”), view displays about natural communities and larger-than-life pond strata mobiles, study live aquatic organisms “borrowed” from Alpine Pond with the assistance of a docent, or enjoy a picnic with your companions on nearby tables (pack out your own trash please). The living is easy – come and see!