Adventures With Nature
San Luis Obispo Coast District State Parks Docents
supported by Central Coast Natural History Association
For information call (805)772-2694
Adventures with Nature
June 2008
San Luis Obispo Coast District State Parks Docents
|
E=Easy
M=Moderate A=Active S=Strenuous H=Hike T=Talk |
1 mile or less, mostly level
1 to 3 miles, uneven terrain Any distance, difficult terrain Long distance, difficult terrain, high degree of fitness required Active to strenuous, no intrepretation Talk or lecture |
* indicates possible presence of poison oak
Rain or Bad weather cancels outdoor activities
All duration times are approximate
No dogs, please
June 4, Wed., 10:00 am Montaņa de Oro Bluff Nature Walk Take a pleasant hike along the Bluff Trail for magnificent views and see a variety of birds, plants and sea life. Binoculars helpful. Meet at Bluff Trailhead, 200 yards south of Visitor Center at Montaņa de Oro State Park. (*A) 2.5 mi., 2 hr.
June 5, Thu., 1:00 pm Discover Magnificent Morro Rock Explore the beauty of Morro Rock and learn about its geology and history and the animals that live on and near the rock. Meet at the rest rooms in the parking lot in front of the rock. (E) .5mi., 1-1.5hr.
June 5, Thu., 2:00 pm Let's Talk Turtles Learn about our planet's oldest inhabitants and their threatened existence. Will they go the way of the dinosaur? Turtles welcome, but must be in a box or container. Meet at the Nature Center in Oceano Campground, Pismo State Beach. (T) 1 hr.
June 6, Fri., 1:00 pm Discover Treasures of Montaņa de Oro, Part 1 Tour the Spooner Ranch House and Holloway Garden. Meet in Parking lot of Spooner Ranch House. (E) 1 hr.
June 6, Fri., 2:00 pm Discover Treasures of Montaņa de Oro, Part 2 Climb the Reservoir Flats Trail, passing thru Coastal Sage Scrub, Chaparral and Riparian Eco Systems. Enjoy ocean views, lush creek side greenery and see an abundance of wildflowers. Bring water and wear protective clothing. Meet at Visitor Center (Spooner Ranch House) Montana State Park. (*A) 1.7 mi. 2hrs. (A) 1.7 miles, 2 hrs
June 7, Sat., 7:00 am Intertidal Life at Hazard Reef Walk through coastal scrub and sand dunes to the beach to see seaweeds and marine animals. Meet 1.6 mile south of Moņtana de Oro State Park entrance sign. Wear non-skid shoes that can get wet. (A) 2 mi., 3 hr.
June 7, Sat., 10:00 am Los Osos Oaks Reserve Enjoy a shaded stroll through ancient forest. See native plants and evidence of Chumash habitation. Learn colorful historical background. Meet at Reserve entrance, 0.7 miles east of South Bay Blvd. on Los Osos Valley Road. (*E) 1 mi., 1.5 hr.
June 7, Sat., 11:00 am San Simeon History Join our "Docents at the Pier"between 11am and 1pm and travel throught time as we explore the diverse history and uses of San Simeon Cove. Meet at the Coastal Discovery Center at W.R Hearst State Beach. (T)
June 7, Sat., 2:00 pm Black Hill Trail Walk the most accessible of the volcanic sisters while we discuss their history and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding geography from atop the hill. Take Golf Course Drive past the clubhouse and bear left at fork in road. Meet at the overlook parking lot above Morro Bay Golf Course. (M) 0.5mi., 1-1.5hr.
June 7, Sat., 7:30 pm Moon & Planets Observe Moon, Mars and Saturn at dusk. Learn that it is possible to see planets during daylight hours. Bring binoculars and a flashlight with red cellophane taped over lens. Meet at the sandspit parking lot in Moņtana de Oro State Park. (E) 1hr.
June 7, Sat., 7:30 pm Night Time Photo Opportunity If you have every wanted to learn about taking night time photos of the Lights of Morro Bay, here is your chance to learn from an expert. Meet at the base of Morro Rock by the restrooms.You need to bring the following, if possible: a tripod, a remote control for shutter release, at least a 200mm or more telephoto lens and any wide or medium angle lens. (E)1.5 - 2 hrs.
June 8, Sun., 10:30 am Great Blue Herons, Egrets and Other Rookery Wonders Enjoy a short talk about Great Blue Herons,Great and Snowy Egrets, Black Crowned Night Herons and other residents at the rookery in Morro Bay State Park. Walk to the site to observe these magnificent birds. Learn about courtship rituals, nesting habits, and in spring, see adults caring for their young. Meet in the Learning Center at Morro Bay Museum. (E) 1/4 mi., 1.5 hr.
June 8, Sun., 11:00 am San Simeon History Join our "Docents at the Pier"between 11am and 1pm and travel throught time as we explore the diverse history and uses of San Simeon Cove. Meet at the Coastal Discovery Center at W.R Hearst State Beach. (T)
June 10, Tue., 11:00 am White's Point Vistas Enjoy a short, but steep walk to view the estuary and learn about the forces that have created this watery world that serves as home to hundreds of marine and terrestrial animals. Learn why in the past century the estuary has lost 25 percent. Dress for wind. Meet at Morro Bay Natural History Museum entrance. (M) 1/2mi., 3/4 hr.
June 12, Thu., 8:00 am Shark Inlet, The Sandspit and an Ancient Estuary Hike along the shore of Shark Inlet, cross to the ocean beach and lunch on the dunes. Learn about the geologic history of the south end of Morro Bay. Bring water and lunch. Meet at west end of Butte Dr. (north of Sea Pines Golf Course, Los Osos. (A) 5mi., 4hrs.
June 13, Fri., 9:00 am Valencia Peak Hike On this vigorous hike, enjoy great exercise, and spectacular ocean, mountain and canyon views of Montaņa de Oro and Morro Bay from Valencia Peak, while enjoying wildflowers, birds, and native vegetation. Meet at bluff parking area 300' South of the Ranch House.Wear hiking boots, bring water and snack. 1347' elevation gain. (H) (S) 3.7 mi., 2 hrs.
June 13, Fri., 2:00 pm Great Blue Herons, Egrets and Other Rookery Wonders Enjoy a short talk about Great Blue Herons,Great and Snowy Egrets, Black Crowned Night Herons and other residents at the rookery in Morro Bay State Park. Walk to the site to observe these magnificent birds. Learn about courtship rituals, nesting habits, and in spring, see adults caring for their young. Meet in the Learning Center at Morro Bay Museum. (E) 1/4 mi., 1.5 hr.
June 14, Sat., 8:00 am Digital Photo Walk (Morro Rock Peregrines - south side) Bring your digital camera, and a long lens and tripod if you have them, on this instructional photo outing at the base of Morro Rock. All photographic skill levels are welcome. Docent photographers will demonstrate high-end tele-photo equipment used to achieve gallery-quality images of our local Peregrine Falcons and their 2008 fledglings, and other birds, and will answer questions related to telephoto long-distance photography. Park at the far west end of Coleman Drive. See photomorrobay.com for more information. (*E) 0.0 mi., 1.0 hrs
June 14, Sat., 2:00 pm Day at Grandpa's Farm Come to the picnic area of Morro Bay State Park Campground to milk a cow, and cut wood to cook over an open fire. When the chores are done there will be games like sack races, hoops and clothes pins in a bottle and other old favorites. For kids from 7 to 12 with an adult. (E) 1.5 hr.
June 18, Wed., 11:00 am White's Point Vistas Enjoy a short, but steep walk to view the estuary and learn about the forces that have created this watery world that serves as home to hundreds of marine and terrestrial animals. Learn why in the past century the estuary has lost 25 percent. Dress for wind. Meet at Morro Bay Natural History Museum entrance. (M) 1/2mi., 3/4 hr.
June 20, Fri., 9:30 am Native Plant Gardens & Oceano Lagoon Become acquainted with native plants of our county and Pismo State Beach on a stroll by the native plant gardens. Enjoy the beauty of Oceano Lagoon and learn about its flora and fauna. Meet at the Nature Center at the entrance to the Oceano Campground, Pismo State Beach. (M) 1.5 mi., 2 hr.
June 21, Sat., 10:30 am Chumash Indians - A Fascinating Culture An engrossing talk on the culture, artifacts and historical contribution of the Chumash to our area. Meet at the Natural History Museum in Morro Bay State Park. (T) 2 hr.
June 22, Sun., 2:00 pm Great Blue Herons, Egrets and Other Rookery Wonders Enjoy a short talk about Great Blue Herons,Great and Snowy Egrets, Black Crowned Night Herons and other residents at the rookery in Morro Bay State Park. Walk to the site to observe these magnificent birds. Learn about courtship rituals, nesting habits, and in spring, see adults caring for their young. Meet in the Learning Center at Morro Bay Museum. (E) 1/4 mi., 1.5 hr.
June 24, Tue., 11:00 am White's Point Vistas Enjoy a short, but steep walk to view the estuary and learn about the forces that have created this watery world that serves as home to hundreds of marine and terrestrial animals. Learn why in the past century the estuary has lost 25 percent. Dress for wind. Meet at Morro Bay Natural History Museum entrance. (M) 1/2mi., 3/4 hr.
June 27, Fri., 10:00 am Great Blue Herons, Egrets and Other Rookery Wonders Enjoy a short talk about Great Blue Herons,Great and Snowy Egrets, Black Crowned Night Herons and other residents at the rookery in Morro Bay State Park. Walk to the site to observe these magnificent birds. Learn about courtship rituals, nesting habits, and in spring, see adults caring for their young. Meet in the Learning Center at Morro Bay Museum. (E) 1/4 mi., 1.5 hr.
June 27, Fri., 1:00 pm Discover Treasures of Montaņa de Oro, Part 1 Tour the Spooner Ranch House and Holloway Garden. Meet in Parking lot of Spooner Ranch House. (E) 1 hr.
June 27, Fri., 2:00 pm Discover Treasures of Montaņa de Oro, Part 2 Climb the Reservoir Flats Trail, passing thru Coastal Sage Scrub, Chaparral and Riparian Eco Systems. Enjoy ocean views, lush creek side greenery and see an abundance of wildflowers. Bring water and wear protective clothing. Meet at Visitor Center (Spooner Ranch House) Montana State Park. (*A) 1.7 mi. 2hrs. (A) 1.7 miles, 2 hrs
June 28, Sat., 8:00 am Shoreline Geology Walk along the bluffs from Spooner's Cove to Corallina Cove learning about the geology of the wave-cut terraces, cliffs, beaches and tidepools. Meet at the Visitor's Center, Montaņa de Oro State Park. Wear non-skid shoes and dress warmly. (M) 1.5 mi., 2 hr.
June 28, Sat., 11:00 am Living History at the Spooner Ranch House Learn about the fascinating history of Pecho Ranch & its inhabitants. Visit with charming Victorian Era women in the "Parlor" at the Spooner Ranch House in Montaņa de Oro State Park. (T) 2 hr.
July 2008
San Luis Obispo Coast District State Parks Docents
|
E=Easy
M=Moderate A=Active S=Strenuous H=Hike T=Talk |
1 mile or less, mostly level
1 to 3 miles, uneven terrain Any distance, difficult terrain Long distance, difficult terrain, high degree of fitness required Active to strenuous, no intrepretation Talk or lecture |
* indicates possible presence of poison oak
Rain or Bad weather cancels outdoor activities
All duration times are approximate
No dogs, please
July 4, Fri., 1:30 pm Great Blue Herons, Egrets and Other Rookery Wonders Enjoy a short talk about Great Blue Herons,Great and Snowy Egrets, Black Crowned Night Herons and other residents at the rookery in Morro Bay State Park. Walk to the site to observe these magnificent birds. Learn about courtship rituals, nesting habits, and in spring, see adults caring for their young. Meet in the Learning Center at Morro Bay Museum. (E) 1/4 mi., 1.5 hr.
July 4, Fri., 1:30 pm Sketch Walk (Morro View) Walk through coastal dune scrub at the foot of the morros. Enjoy views of Hollister Peak and Cerro Cabrillo, stopping to draw the plants or the landscape. No drawing experience necessary. Meet in the soccer field parking lot at the South end of Los Osos Middle School. From South Bay Blvd. turn East on Pismo St. into the parking lot. (M) 1.5 miles, 2.5 hours.
July 5, Sat., 7:00 am Intertidal Life at Hazard Reef Walk through coastal scrub and sand dunes to the beach to see seaweeds and marine animals. Meet 1.6 mile south of Moņtana de Oro State Park entrance sign. Wear non-skid shoes that can get wet. (A) 2 mi., 3 hr.
July 5, Sat., 11:00 am Pecho Ranch Day 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Spinning, quilting, stitchery, whittling, flint-knapping demonstrations. Grandpa's Farm. Home baked bread and preserves. Victorian characters. History walk at 1:00. Spooner Ranch House, Montana de Oro State Park. Free - 534-9916 (?)
July 5, Sat., 2:00 pm Black Hill Trail Walk the most accessible of the volcanic sisters while we discuss their history and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding geography from atop the hill. Take Golf Course Drive past the clubhouse and bear left at fork in road. Meet at the overlook parking lot above Morro Bay Golf Course. (M) 0.5mi., 1-1.5hr.
July 6, Sun., 2:00 pm Plant of the Month Club - Wooly Blue Stars Explore the old dunes to find the brilliant blue flowers of the summer stars. Views of Hollister Peak and other morros. Meet in the soccer field parking lot at the South end of Los Osos Middle School. From South Bay Blvd. turn East on Pismo St. into the parking lot. (M) 1.5 miles, 1.5 hours
July 8, Tue., 9:00 am Southern Route to Valencia Peak Enjoy coastal and mountain vistas of the southern area of the park enroute to Valencia Peak. Deep ravines and sharp ridges tell a geologic history of uplift and erosion. Seasonal wildflowers and sheltered clusters of coastal live oak punctuate the coastal scrub community. Meet at the Coon Creek parking lot at the south end of Montaņa de Oro State Park. Bring water, lunch and binoculars. Wear hiking boots. (*S) 4 mi., 4 hr.
July 10, Thu., 1:30 pm Great Blue Herons, Egrets and Other Rookery Wonders Enjoy a short talk about Great Blue Herons,Great and Snowy Egrets, Black Crowned Night Herons and other residents at the rookery in Morro Bay State Park. Walk to the site to observe these magnificent birds. Learn about courtship rituals, nesting habits, and in spring, see adults caring for their young. Meet in the Learning Center at Morro Bay Museum. (E) 1/4 mi., 1.5 hr.
July 10, Thu., 2:00 pm Let's Talk Turtles Learn about our planet's oldest inhabitants and their threatened existence. Will they go the way of the dinosaur? Turtles welcome, but must be in a box or container. Meet at the Nature Center in Oceano Campground, Pismo State Beach. (T) 1 hr.
July 11, Fri., 1:00 pm Discover Treasures of Montaņa de Oro, Part 1 Tour the Spooner Ranch House and Holloway Garden. Meet in Parking lot of Spooner Ranch House. (E) 1 hr.
July 11, Fri., 2:00 pm Discover Treasures of Montaņa de Oro, Part 2 Climb the Reservoir Flats Trail, passing thru Coastal Sage Scrub, Chaparral and Riparian Eco Systems. Enjoy ocean views, lush creek side greenery and see an abundance of wildflowers. Bring water and wear protective clothing. Meet at Visitor Center (Spooner Ranch House) Montana State Park. (*A) 1.7 mi. 2hrs. (A) 1.7 miles, 2 hrs
July 11, Fri., 7:30 pm Fine Feathered Friends Come and hear stories from many cultures about your favorite fine feathered friends. These stories are appropriate for all ages and generations to illustrate the passing down of culture from numerous ethnic groups. Meet at the Morro Bay State Park amphitheater. (T) 1 hr.
July 12, Sat., 8:00 am Birding Multiple Habitats Observe birds on a short hike along the seashore, creek, wetlands, chaparral and pine forest habitats. Suitable for birders with all levels of experience. Meet in the Washburn day use parking lot north of Cambria on the east side of Hwy 1 just south of San Simeon Creek. (*M) 2 mi., 3 hrs.
July 12, Sat., 9:30 am Digital Photo Workshop A digital photo workshop on how to photograph insects in their environment to be presented in the auditorium of Morro Bay Natural HIstory Museum. Bring a digital camera, macro lens, tripod, flash and accessories to learn the techniques used to achive stunning macro and close-up images. See photmorrobay.com for more info. (T), 2 hrs
July 12, Sat., 10:00 am Bird For a Day A fun family program where kids will learn about birds' adaptations like feathers, feet, colors & breaks. Use tools to acquire food the way a bird does.Limited to 24 kids 7 to 12 years old, with an adult. Meet at campfire center of Morro Bay State Park Campground (E) 1.5 hr.
July 12, Sat., 10:00 am Chumash - Before Spanish Explorers An easy walk by the lagoon at Oceano Campground starting at the Nature Center to hear about the way the Chumash lived before the Spanish explorers. We will look at the plants and animals they used for food and other uses. (*E) 1/2 mi., 1.5 hrs.
July 12, Sat., 10:00 am Los Osos Oaks Reserve Enjoy a shaded stroll through ancient forest. See native plants and evidence of Chumash habitation. Learn colorful historical background. Meet at Reserve entrance, 0.7 miles east of South Bay Blvd. on Los Osos Valley Road. (*E) 1 mi., 1.5 hr.
July 13, Sun., 2:00 pm Nature's 7 in 1 Spectacular Take a walk through seven distinct habitats in one unique, integrated ecosystem. View the beauty of wetlands, riparian forest, coastal scrub, grassland, pine forest, marine estuary & vernal pool and their effect on the plants and animal life there. Meet in Washburn day use parking lot north of Cambria on the east side of Hwy 1 just south of San Simeon Creek. (*A) 3.5mi., 2.5 hr.
July 14, Mon., 10:00 am Montaņa de Oro Bluff Nature Walk Take a pleasant hike along the Bluff Trail for magnificent views and see a variety of birds, plants and sea life. Binoculars helpful. Meet at Bluff Trailhead, 200 yards south of Visitor Center at Montaņa de Oro State Park. (*A) 2.5 mi., 2 hr.
July 17, Thu., 10:00 am Birds and Nature at Morro Strand Meet at and walk from the parking lot at the west end of Azure Street in north Morro Bay (Take Hwy.1 to San Jacinto, turn toward beach and jog 2 blocks south to Azure). Along the beach observe specialized shorebird and pelagic bird feeding techniques. Binoculars suggested. (M) 1-1.5 mi., 2 hr.
July 19, Sat., 1:00 pm White's Point Vistas Enjoy a short, but steep walk to view the estuary and learn about the forces that have created this watery world that serves as home to hundreds of marine and terrestrial animals. Learn why in the past century the estuary has lost 25 percent. Dress for wind. Meet at Morro Bay Natural History Museum entrance. (M) 1/2mi., 3/4 hr.
July 19, Sat., 1:30 pm Great Blue Herons, Egrets and Other Rookery Wonders Enjoy a short talk about Great Blue Herons,Great and Snowy Egrets, Black Crowned Night Herons and other residents at the rookery in Morro Bay State Park. Walk to the site to observe these magnificent birds. Learn about courtship rituals, nesting habits, and in spring, see adults caring for their young. Meet in the Learning Center at Morro Bay Museum. (E) 1/4 mi., 1.5 hr.
July 24, Thu., 1:30 pm Great Blue Herons, Egrets and Other Rookery Wonders Enjoy a short talk about Great Blue Herons,Great and Snowy Egrets, Black Crowned Night Herons and other residents at the rookery in Morro Bay State Park. Walk to the site to observe these magnificent birds. Learn about courtship rituals, nesting habits, and in spring, see adults caring for their young. Meet in the Learning Center at Morro Bay Museum. (E) 1/4 mi., 1.5 hr.
July 24, Thu., 2:00 pm Let's Talk Turtles Learn about our planet's oldest inhabitants and their threatened existence. Will they go the way of the dinosaur? Turtles welcome, but must be in a box or container. Meet at the Nature Center in Oceano Campground, Pismo State Beach. (T) 1 hr.
July 25, Fri., 9:30 am Native Plant Gardens & Oceano Lagoon Become acquainted with native plants of our county and Pismo State Beach on a stroll by the native plant gardens. Enjoy the beauty of Oceano Lagoon and learn about its flora and fauna. Meet at the Nature Center at the entrance to the Oceano Campground, Pismo State Beach. (M) 1.5 mi., 2 hr.
July 25, Fri., 10:00 am Montaņa de Oro Bluff Nature Walk Take a pleasant hike along the Bluff Trail for magnificent views and see a variety of birds, plants and sea life. Binoculars helpful. Meet at Bluff Trailhead, 200 yards south of Visitor Center at Montaņa de Oro State Park. (*A) 2.5 mi., 2 hr.
July 25, Fri., 1:00 pm Discover Treasures of Montaņa de Oro, Part 1 Tour the Spooner Ranch House and Holloway Garden. Meet in Parking lot of Spooner Ranch House. (E) 1 hr.
July 25, Fri., 2:00 pm Discover Magnificent Morro Rock Explore the beauty of Morro Rock and learn about its geology and history and the animals that live on and near the rock. Meet at the rest rooms in the parking lot in front of the rock. (E) .5mi., 1-1.5hr.
July 25, Fri., 2:00 pm Discover Treasures of Montaņa de Oro, Part 2 Climb the Reservoir Flats Trail, passing thru Coastal Sage Scrub, Chaparral and Riparian Eco Systems. Enjoy ocean views, lush creek side greenery and see an abundance of wildflowers. Bring water and wear protective clothing. Meet at Visitor Center (Spooner Ranch House) Montana State Park. (*A) 1.7 mi. 2hrs. (A) 1.7 miles, 2 hrs
July 26, Sat., 9:00 am Digital Photo Walk (Valencia Peak) Bring your point-and-shoot or SLR digital camera. All photographic skill levels are welcome. Experienced docent photographers will help you improve your outdoor and nature photography skills. Meet at the bluff parking area 300' South of the Ranch House in Montaņa de Oro. Wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes, bring water and snack. 1347' elevation gain. . See photomorrobay.com for more information. (S) 3.7 mi., 3 hrs
July 26, Sat., 9:00 am Sand Spit Walk Examine dune plants. Enjoy the beauty of the surf and look at whatever has washed in. Watch birds feed and consider their adaptations for contact with a cold salty environment. Bring lunch, water and binoculars. Meet in Montaņa de Oro State Park in the Sand Spit Parking Lot. Turn right on paved road 0.8 miles from park entrance. 9 miles, 4.5 hours (A) 9 miles, 4.5 hours
July 26, Sat., 11:00 am Living History at the Spooner Ranch House Learn about the fascinating history of Pecho Ranch & its inhabitants. Visit with charming Victorian Era women in the "Parlor" at the Spooner Ranch House in Montaņa de Oro State Park. (T) 2 hr.
July 29, Tue., 10:00 am Montaņa de Oro Bluff Nature Walk Take a pleasant hike along the Bluff Trail for magnificent views and see a variety of birds, plants and sea life. Binoculars helpful. Meet at Bluff Trailhead, 200 yards south of Visitor Center at Montaņa de Oro State Park. (*A) 2.5 mi., 2 hr.
July 30, Wed., 12:30 pm Lunchtime Look See at the Rookery View the progressive stages of our local heron and cormorant seven-month mating season. Watch the current mating and courtship of great blue and other herons, and continue as nesting and egg laying (April) hatching (May) raising the young (June/July) feldgling first flights (July) and the display of juveniles into young adulthood. Bring binoculars if you have them. Scope provided. Park in the convenient lot between the museum/beach and the North State Park Entrance, or take the 10 minute active walk from the museum to meet the group. (E) ADA accessible.3/4 hr.
July 31, Thu., 9:00 am Coon Creek Hike On this vigorous hike, enjoy great exercise, spectacular creek and canyon views. Explore the riparian landscape along Coon Creek and see a variety of wild flowers,berries, shrubs, and trees.Wear sturdy shoes, bring water and snack. Meet in Montana de Oro State Park at the end of Pecho Road in the Coon Creek parking lot. (H) (S)4.7 mi., 2.5 hr.