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16 events,
Castle Rock Guided First Day Hike
Park: Castle Rock State ParkWhere: Meetat the Saratoga Gap ParkingLotTime: Hikebegins at 10:00am Parking: Freeparking at Saratoga Gap until sunsetWhat to expect: Comestart the new year right with a grand history of these lush and scenic forest ridgelands. Former Castle Rock Ranger Miles Standish will take you through a seriesof short walks touching on the entire history of these mountains, fromprehistory to the first peoples of the Ohlone, the American pioneer times and intothe modern era. The hike will be broken into multiple pieces as participantshave the option of following in their own cars to additional trailheads with (former)Ranger Standish to explore a variety of historically and naturally significantareas. Total hiking distance will be around 2-3 miles, total (optional) drivingdistance will be approximately 7 miles.Ages: Allages welcomed.Preparation: Participantsshould wear sturdy shoes and a hat, bring water & snacks, and wearweather-appropriate clothing (significant rain or wind will cancel).Special instructions: Steadyrain, strong winds or other potentiallyunsafe weather conditions will cancel – to confirm, call (408) 868-9540 or email [email protected]: AlexTrudelle ([email protected])831.291.8273Follow us on:Facebookand Instagram
First Day Hike to Goat Rock
New Years Day Hike – Castle Rock Falls and Goat Rock!January 1, 2024 (10:30 AM – 3:30 PM)Castle Rock State Park, Headquarters (Kirkwood Entrance)Start the New Year by hiking one of the most exciting and scenic trails in the Bay Area. This moderate 5.15 mile loop has 1,190 feet elevation gain and amazing panoramic views. We leave from park headquarters and visit the top of Castle Rock Falls. We continue along a rocky trail with views of the San Lorenzo River Valley and the Pacific Ocean. At Castle Rock Trail Camp, we loop-back to Goat Rock with its breathtaking vista. After a relaxed lunch, we return to headquarters.This hike is rated “moderate” because hikers need to step onto rocks, balance, and scramble over rocks. Hikers should be comfortable with their sense of balance.Meet at Park Headquarters. Bring at least one liter of water, lunch, snacks, and appropriate clothing. Rain or heavy wind cancels. Vehicle day-use fee is $10.Free Event – No registration required.
Half Moon Bay – First Day Hike at Montara Mountain North Peak
Half Moon Bay – First Day Hike at Montara Mountain North Peak
Park: Montara State BeachWhere: Montara Mountain North Peak and Peak MountainTime: 8:30am - 1:00pmParking: Free parking is located in Gray Whale Cove parking lot on Hwy 1 North. Exact location hereWhat to expect: Join a State Park Interpreter to enjoy the flora, fauna, and views of the coast on this strenuous 7 mile hike with 2,000 foot elevation gain and stunning 360 degree views of the Pacific Ocean, Mt. Tam, Mt. Diablo, Farallon Islands, Point Reyes, Golden Gate Bridge, and the greater San Francisco Bay. A lunch break will be taken atop Peak Mountain, before the downhill climb back to Gray Whale Cove. Length of hike: 7 mile loopAges: All ages welcome; please carefully read notes and be prepared for strenuous hikePreparation: Participants should wear sturdy shoes and a hat, and bring plenty of water & snacks. Hike includes some steep downhill and trekking poles are encouraged.Special instructions: Steady rain will cancel.Contact: Erin Christ - [email protected] or call (669)758-1819Follow us on: Instagram or Facebook
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Bird Watching
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Bird Watching
Come spend the morning with resident and migratory birds of the park! On this 1 mile stroll, which will last approximately 1.5 hours, participants have the opportunity to observe, and listen to, a handful of bird species in the park. This program is recommended for 6 and up. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Parking: Meet in the main parking lot of the campground just past the kiosk (located at 2591 Graham Hill Road, Scotts Valley CA 95060). Day-use fee is $10.Preparation: Dress in weather-appropriate clothing. Bring warm layers. Wear good hiking boots/shoes. Bring water and snacks.Special instructions: Pre-registration for the hike is required here.Contact: [email protected] us on: Facebook and Instagram.
The Forest of Nisene Marks – 1st Day Hike
The Forest of Nisene Marks – 1st Day Hike
Park: The Forest of Nisene Marks State ParkMeet at: Georges Picnic Area/Winter GateTime: 9:00amParking: $8.00 park entrance fee per car. Limited parking so please carpool.What to expect: Join us for a leisurely walk to the site where the town of Loma Prieta was located and the hidden spot deep in the redwood forest where marine fossils can be found. We will encounter the remains of the old lumber mill, follow the trail of the ghost trestles, and learn about the wonders of our giant redwoods and their survival.Length of hike: 4.5 miles, 3.5 hoursAges: Children 10 years or older.Preparation: Participants should wear sturdy shoes, and hat. Please bring water, snacks, and a layer since the forest can be chilly in the morning. Special instructions: Steady rain will cancel hike. No pets are allowed.Contact: Paul Karz - [email protected] or call (831) 685-6444Reservation Link: https://SantaCruzStateParks.as.me/nisenefirstday
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First Friday Santa Cruz
First Friday Santa Cruz
On the first Friday evening of every month, Santa Cruz galleries, shops, and cultural venues open their doors to showcase the works of Santa Cruz County artists. With a block party-like vibe, the multi-venue event provides an opportunity to discover local creative talent in a fun and festive setting. Many venues entice attendees with yummy cheese-and-wine-filled spreads, while others have food trucks joining in on the fun.
8 events,
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Birding
We are offering a bird watching program on November 4th at 8:00am. Join us to learn all about life histories, behaviors, field markings, etc. On this 1-mile walk, we will make specific observations about characteristics that will certainly help us quack the case for many bird identifications! Let's plan to meet in the main parking lot of the park. Hope to see you there! Make sure to bring binoculars and a jacket so you're not murmuring under your breath "brrrrrrrrrrrrd."Reservation required; click here to RSVP.
Early Bird Tour
Early Bird Tour
Amateur and expert birders alike will find a place on the Early Bird Tour! Local guides lead these 2-3 mile walks, sharing the life histories of the birds that call Elkhorn Slough home, and giving tips on identifying species.
UCSC Arboretum: First Saturday Tours
UCSC Arboretum: First Saturday Tours
Around the World in 60-90 Minutes! The first Saturday of each month, the Arboretum offers a docent or staff-led tour of the Arboretum. Sometimes you will see New Zealand, South Africa, California, or Australia. Sometimes you might see combinations of several gardens, the developing World Conifer Collection, or Rare Fruit Garden. Tour length varies depending on what’s in bloom and what the participants request.