Hikers in Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve / photo by Lanette Otvos

Framing the Foothills

Sunday, August 17, 2025
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
El Corte de Madera Creek Preserve
Approximate Total Miles
5

Get ready to use your photographic eye: No camera needed! On this moderately-paced loop hike with multiple stops, you'll traverse the Sierra Morena, Methuselah, Fir, and Tafoni trails. Docent Naturalists Ani Agahian, Catherine Xun, and Bobbie Riedel will guide you on an excursion that combines elements of photographic composition and natural history. You’ll get a chance to observe the diverse habitats and magnificent tafoni sandstone formation found in this preserve from both up close and afar with a new perspective. Bring a snack for a short break.

Where to Meet

Meet at the El Corte de Madera Parking Area located on the west side of Highway 35 (Skyline Boulevard), about 1- mile south of the Caltrans Skeggs Point parking area and 2.7 miles north of the intersection of Highway 35 and Highway 84.

To ensure your experience on a docent naturalist outing is enjoyable please review these activity guidelines.

For more information about trail characteristics for this event, check out the Midpen Trail Explorer app. To learn more about ADA accommodations for events, or make an inquiry with the ADA coordinator, visit our Accessibility page.

If your activity requires registration, please be sure to cancel your reservation (from your confirmation email) if you are no longer able to attend so others can participate.

After your participation on a guided activity please share your feedback — your input is meaningful to our volunteers and program staff – thank you!