|
February 2010
Sequoia Paddlers - Canoe and kayak roll practice.
Ridgway Swim Center in Santa Rosa Thursday 7-8:45pm. The pool is located on Ridgway Ave off Mendocino right next to Santa Rosa High School. The water is warm but the air is often cold, so wet suits are recommended as well as PFD’s and helmets. Paddlers must bring their own clean boats and gear, instruction is not provided although advice and tips are available for the asking. Showers are available. Cost $5. Co-sponsored by the Sequoia Paddlers and the Santa Rosa Parks and Recreation Department. Please e-mail Sig at pool_coord@sequoiapc.org, or call 292-4947.
Sequoia Paddlers Section. The canoe, kayak and rafting section of the Redwood Chapter. Outings are often dependent on river conditions and do not have long lead times. Please check the Activities Page of our website, www.sequoiapc.org, for upcoming trips.
Fri.-Sun., Feb 5-7, Napa Group Hutchinson Winter Ski Trip.
Join us in the Sierra snow. Located in Soda Springs, Hutchinson Lodge was built in 1925 and is going strong after 85 years. Enjoy cross country skiing, down hill skiing, or snow shoeing on your own or join others with similar interests. All activities are self guided; equipment rental is available at Clare Tappaan Lodge, located nearby. Cost is $76 for 2 nights and 3 days, breakfast and dinner included. For reservations call or e-mail Leader: Nanette DeDonato 645-8953 nandedo@netzero.net.
Sat., Feb 6, March 6, April 10, and May 22 - Backpacking Seminar.
Designed for the absolute beginner or for those who wish to dust off old skills. This is an opportunity to meet people with similar interests and enjoy the great outdoors. There are four two-hour classroom seminars at 10am. We will talk about packs, tents, sleeping bags, clothing, terrain navigation, fitness, first aid, and hiking in Northern California. Then we will have a series of three weekend outings. The classroom sessions will be held at the Environmental Center: 55 Ridgeway Ave in Santa Rosa. Backpacking dates will be June 12th-13th, June 25th-27th, and July 9th-12th. There is a $30.00 administrative fee per person. To sign up please call David Henry 579-5861 or dt_henry@yahoo.com. This will be a lot of fun regardless of skill level and age.
Sat., Feb 13 - North Group. Headwaters Forest Reserve.
The trailhead is at the end of Elk River Rd. The hike is level for the first 3 miles passing through a scenic second -growth redwood forest along the Elk River. The last 2 miles of trail is a steep climb and loop through a beautiful old-growth section of the redwood forest. Return is along the same route. Class M-11-B. Carpools: Meet 9am Park & Ride lot intersection of Broadway (Hwy 101) and Herrick Avenue or trailhead 9:30 am. No dogs allowed. Leader Xandra 707-441-0702.
Sat., Feb 13 - Napa Group. The ‘Wandering Doodlers’ Second Saturday Hikes.
Grab your paints/pencils and sketchbooks, lace up your hiking boots and join us for a day of hiking and art. After meeting at the trailhead at 9am, we will hike 2 or 3 miles, stop when the inspiration strikes, have lunch and sketch/paint for one or two hours, depending on the temperature, then head back. Bring lunch, water, good hiking boots and appropriate clothing. This will be a monthly outing, scheduled on the 2nd Saturday of each month, beginning Feb 13 and continuing indefinitely. Location will vary. From professional artist to casual doodler, all are welcome, but you must be able to hike 4 to 6 miles. Call leader Isabelle: 707-253-2293 or izstguily@gmail.com for details and sign-up.
Sat.-Mon., Feb 13-15 - Sonoma Group Ludlow Hut Trip (Intermediate-Adv Intermediate).
Snowshoe/Ski 6.5 miles (1200’) to Ludlow Hut for Presidents weekend Sat/Sun overnight and back out on Mon. midday. $38 ($40 Non Sierra Club members) by Feb 4th to Jim Gannon; PO Box 1038, Rohnert Park, CA 94927. Non-refundable reservations. Please include email address/phone#. Optional stay at Clair Tappaan lodge Fri 12th. Make reservations early to avoid disappointment. Lodge reservations 530-426-3632 indicate you are with Ludlow trip-Redwood Chapter. Central commissary is planned. Meeting time/locations provided with trip sign up. Contact leader Jim Gannon 707-525-1052 jgannon99@sbcglobal.net. Co-leader TBD.
Mon.-Wed., Feb 15-17 - Gold Butte Introductory Tour.
Come explore this proposed National Conservation Area in Southeast Nevada. See many beautiful and interesting sights, including petroglyphs and Joshua trees. Climb one of the areas peaks and enjoy the splendid views. Central commissary. Leader: Vicky Hoover, 415-977-5527, vicky.hoover@sierraclub.org. CNRCC Desert Committee.
Sat., Feb 20 - Lake Group (with Friends of Boggs Mountain) Boggs Mountain State Forest.
Hike various trails. Appropriate footwear required, water/snack advised. Neutered dogs on leash welcome. Class M-4-A. Meet 10am - covered kiosk - main parking area. Entrance Forestry Road 1.3 miles north of Cobb Village on Hwy 175. Carpooling to more remote trails possible. Leader: Boone Lodge friendsofboggsmountain@earthlink.net 928-5819. Rain cancels.
Sat., Feb 20 - Sonoma Group Cataract Trail to Cataract Falls Hike.
On the western side of Mt Tam is one of the most beautiful hikes that this mountain or any other mountain in northern California has to offer. The Cataract trail falls spread over 1.6 miles of the 7.5 mile loop of the densely forested trail full of ferns, maples, tanoaks and redwoods. Our hike will begin with views of San Pablo Bay and Alpine Lake. Hike will be at a leisurely pace with stops for pictures and a lunch break at the mid-point. Bring water, lunch and hiking boots. Class: M-8-B. Carpools: Meet 8am Santa Rosa CVS/I-Hop parking lot 4th St & Farmers Lane near the 4th St entrance, Petaluma 8:40am Lakeville park & ride or trail head Alpine Lake 9:45am. By reservation only. Leader Tim Bartice 707-578-1325, cell 707-342-0471 jseal@anovaeducation.org.
Sun., Feb 21 - Sonoma Group. Half-a-Canoe Loop, Lake Sonoma.
A scenic tour of Lake Sonoma during the quiet winter season. Starting at the trailhead on Rockpile road, we’ll loop over Bummer peak, descend to the lake, stop at Madrone Point camp for a lunch stop, then climb back up the ridge to the trailhead. Dress for the weather with layered clothing, good hiking shoes, bring lunch, liquids. Class M-6-B, approx 1200 ft elev gain. Carpool meets at River Road Park’n’Ride, on River Road, just west of Hwy 101, at 9:15am. Leader: Carl Inglin, 538-8271 or chinglin@sonic.net. Rain cancels.
Thurs.-Sun., Feb 25-28 - Napa Group. Loon Lake Chalet.
Enjoy cross country skiing, snow shoeing, sledding, and other snow activities at this rustic chalet in the Sierra. Activities are self guided; meals are shared. Maximum of 12 people, so reserve early. Contact Leader Penny 944-2058 or penny@minerwines.com.
Sat., Feb 27 - Napa Group Mt. Tam Day Hike & Beach Walk.
Mt Tamalpais, from Mountain Home Inn to Stinson Beach, one-way, with a West Marin Stagecoach shuttle, about 7 miles, almost entirely flat or downslope, with an optional beach walk at the end, a little over 2 miles, flat, or just relax and enjoy. The pace will be just a bit on the slow side of Moderate, and there will be lunch at a favorite hilltop with a great view. Bring lunch and liquids. Class: M-7-A. Co-led with Mother Lode Chapter. Bring exact bus fare ($2). By reservation only. Leader: Martin Farber 253-9606 kowsoi@juno.com. Rain cancels.
Sat., Feb 27- Sonoma Group. Singles Potluck and Tour, Napa.
Hess Winery & Art Collection Self-Tour and Potluck Dinner. Optional Games to follow. Meet 3:45pm Barbara’s home for 4pm departure to the winery by carpool. Return to Barbara’s for social time at 5:30 followed by 6:30 dinner, and later, games. Bring an entree or side dish, beverage and $1 for the club fund. Bring games if desired. From downtown & Hwy 12 continue east for about 12 miles. Turn left Trinity Rd. Turn right, then left, then right, then left to stay on Trinity Rd (4.6 mi). Continue onto Dry Creek Rd. Turn right, then left, then right to stay on Dry Creek Rd (11.8 mi). Turn right Redwood Rd. Turn left W. Pueblo Ave. Take the 3rd left onto Donna Dr to 3001.
Takes roughly one hour OR Take Hwy 29 to Trancas/Redwood exit. Stay in the middle lane of the ramp and turn left (this turns into Redwood Rd). Stay in the right lanes as the left lane brings you back on the hwy. Pass Solano Ave and Carol Dr. Take left at light (Linda Vista Ave). Take Right at stop sign on W Pueblo. Go 2 blocks. Turn right on Donna Dr. 3001 is the 1st house on the left with big palm tree. Leaderless carpool meets at 2:45pm and again at 4:30pm at Calistoga Road Safeway parking lot near Hwy 12. Info. Karin 539-7855 before 8:30pm.
Sat., Feb 27 - North Group. Table Bluff /Mouth of Eel River.
Hike begins on ocean beach below Table Bluff and follows dark sand beach southerly 4 1/2 miles between the ocean and the sloughs, estuaries and marshlands of the Eel River and the tiny North Bay. View abundant wild flora, occasional bird and wildlife in this varied coastal environment. The return route varies along the dunes and the McNulty Slough and North Bay. Class M-9 -A. Carpools: Meet 9am Park & Ride lot Herrick Ave and Broadway (Hwy 101) or 9:30am beach below Table Bluff Leader Xandra 707-441-0702.
Sat-Sun., Feb 27-28 - Mecca Hills Carcamp.
Join us as we explore the Mecca Hills Wilderness Area east of Indio, CA. We will hike through the gravel washes and rocky hills to several well-known and spectacular sites. Saturday we visit Hidden Springs and the Grottos, and Sunday we will explore Painted Canyon. Carcamping will include the civilized amenities, potluck supper, and campfire Saturday night. Limit 12 participants. Ldr: Craig Deutsche, craig.deutsche@gmail.com (310-477-6670). CNRCC Desert Committee.
Sat., Feb 28 - Lake Group. Glen Eden Trail.
Meet: 8am Glen Eden Trailhead, 8 miles out Scotts Valley Road from Hwy 29. Hike beyond Goat Rock campground/back. Need sturdy shoes, lots of water, prior long distance hiking. Class S-8-10-B. By reservation only. Leader: Carol Magill 928-5423, c.magill@mchsi.com.
Sun., Feb 28 - Mendo Group. Stornetta Lands to Garcia River.
Stornetta Public Lands encompass 1,132 acres on the southern Mendocino County coast, north of the town of Point Arena, with two miles of jagged coastline. The land is adjacent to the Pt Arena Lighthouse and Manchester State Beach, with the Garcia River flowing through the property and entering the ocean just north of the lighthouse peninsula. The Garcia River running along the San Andreas Fault zone forms an estuary in the valley and is a wintering habitat for tundra swans and also supports silver salmon and steelhead trout. We will walk out along the bluffs, down to the River, to Sea Lion Cove, view the restored Pt Arena Lighthouse, and discuss the history of the area.
After the walk, we’ll stop at the Rollerville Café; have hot chocolate or tea, and conversation. Bring lunch, camera, and binoculars, wear layered clothing. Water resistant shoes suggested. Class: E-3-4-A. Carpools: 8:30am Big River Beach Mendocino. Carpools also arranged from other locations as needed. By reservation only. Leader Lorraine Buranzon, 937-3799 lorraine@mcn.org. Rain cancels.
Sun., Feb. 28 - Sonoma Group. Ranchero Mark West Saunter.
Landowners Jim & Betty Doerksen will be our guides for this hike through woodlands, redwoods and along the creek. We will look for the elusive Calypso orchid. They might be blooming and if so he has thousands. We will also walk by the pond, go to the Manzanita overlook and enjoy seeing a 150 year old barn. Jim also has the oldest wooden house in Sonoma County. Bring lunch, liquids, hiking boots and layered clothing. Class: M-5-A Carpools: Meet 10:30am southwest corner of Safeway parking lot off Hwy 12 & Calistoga Rd. By reservation only. Leader Carol 546-6308 carolvsr@sonic.net. Rain cancels.
March 2010
Sat., Mar 6 - Mendo Group. Ridgewood Ranch Vernal Pool/Springs.
This is a scenic watershed hike past a vernal pool and springs. There will be early wildflowers on the east side of the ranch. Wear layered clothing, bring water, lunch, and wear hiking boots. Class: M-6-B. 1,100’ elev gain. Meet 10am. By reservation only. Leader Steve 508-8729. Rain cancels.
Sun., Mar 7 - Sonoma Group. Pomo Canyon Trail.
We’ll start at Shell beach parking lot and hike to Pomo Canyon campground for lunch. On the return we’ll take the side trail to Red Hill for a panoramic view. Dress for the coastal weather with layered clothes, wear good hiking shoes, bring lunch and liquids. Class M7B. Meet at 9am at river Road Park’n’Ride on River Road just west of Hwy 101, or at Shell Beach parking lot at 10:15. Call if you want to be met at Shell beach. Leader; Carl Inglin 538-8271 or chinglin@sonic.net. Rain cancels.
Sat-Sub., Mar 6-7 - Death Valley National Park Exploratory Tour.
Come and experience a sample of the many wonders offered in this national park. Beginning in Shoshone on Saturday morning, we will travel north on Hwy 178 with a stop at Badwater, and easy two-mile hikes at Natural Bridge and Golden Canyon. Camp at Texas Springs ($14/site). If time allows, drive to Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View. Sunday morning, visit the museum and visitor center in Furnace Creek, see the rare pupfish at Salt Creek, and take a two-mile hike to the highest sand dune. Possible hike into Mosaic Canyon. For those who want to stay Sunday night, camp at Stovepipe Wells ($12/site). Option of primitive camping on Friday night. For reservations, contact leader, Carol Wiley at desertlily1@verizon.net or call (760-245-8734). CNRCC Desert Committee
Sat., Mar 13 - Napa Group. The ‘Wandering Doodlers’ Second Saturday Hikes.
Grab your paints/pencils and sketchbooks, lace up your hiking boots and join us for a day of hiking and art. After meeting at the trailhead at 9am, we will hike 2 or 3 miles, stop when the inspiration strikes, have lunch and sketch/paint for one or two hours, depending on the temperature, then head back. Bring lunch, water, good hiking boots and appropriate clothing. This will be a monthly outing, scheduled on the 2nd Saturday of each month, beginning Feb 13 and continuing indefinitely. Location will vary. From professional artist to casual doodler, all are welcome, but you must be able to hike 4 to 6 miles. Call leader Isabelle: 707-253-2293 or e-mail: izstguily@gmail.com for details and sign-up.
Sat., Mar 13 - Solano Group. Mare Island Southshore.
Walk along the Historic Southshore of Mare Island to Pier 35 for great views of San Pablo Bay and Carquinez Strait. We’ll visit an historic cemetery dating from 1858 and see the original Mare Island where 150 years ago the US Navy sited its first West Coast Shipyard. We’ll pass under Great Blue Heron and Osprey nests in the Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve. This is a level 4 mile r/t walk on paved and gravel roads in an area not yet open to public access. Class E-4-A. 9:30-12:30. From I-80 in Vallejo take the Tennessee St exit west towards Mare Island. Once on Mare Island take the first left on Nimitz and go to 15th St (stop sign). Turn right and follow to Railroad Ave and turn left. Follow Railroad through the South Gate and park along the road.
From Napa take Hwy 29 south to Tennessee St in Vallejo, turn right and follow above directions. From Marin or Sonoma County take the Mare Island exit off Hwy 37 and follow Walnut Ave south to ‘G’ St (1st stop sign) and turn left. Take the 2nd right at Nimitz and follow above directions. Leader Kenn Browne 707-319-1846.
Sat.-Sun., Mar 13-14 - Sonoma Group Benson Hut Trip (Adv Intermediate-Advanced).
Snowshoe/Ski 6.5 miles (1700’) to Benson Hut for a Sat. overnight. $23 ($25 Non Sierra Club members) by Mar 4th to Jim Gannon; PO Box 1038, Rohnert Park, CA 94927. Checks are non-refundable in case of weather cancellation. Please include email address/phone#. Optional stay at Clair Tappaan lodge Fri 12th. Make reservations early to avoid disappointment. Lodge reservations 530-426-3632 indicate you are with Benson trip-Redwood Chapter. Central commissary is planned. Meeting time/locations provided with trip sign up. Contact leader Jim Gannon (707)-525-1052 jgannon99@sbcglobal.net. Co-leader Don Anderson.
Sat.-Sun., Mar 13-14 - Fence Removal, Hiking, Carcamp - Carrizo Plain.
Come help remove fences on the Cal Dept of Fish and Game Reserve. At this time of year, the Carrizo may be turning green, and if the winter has been wet, there should be wildflowers. Work Saturday, camp and potluck dinner that evening. Hike Sunday. Bring leather gloves, warm clothes with long sleeves and legs, dish for potluck on Saturday night. Leaders will be at Selby Camp on Friday night for those who want to arrive early. Leaders: Cal and Letty French, (805-239-7338). Prefer e-mail lettyfrench@gmail.com. Santa Lucia Chapter and CNRCC Desert Committee.
Sat.-Sun., Mar 13-14 - Ghost Town Extravaganza.
Come with us to this spectacular landscape near Death Valley to visit the desert leprechauns and explore the ruins of California’s colorful past. Camp at the historic ghost town of Ballarat (flush toilets & hot showers). On Saturday, do a very challenging hike to ghost town Lookout City with expert Hal Fowler who will regale us with tales of this Wild West town. Later we’ll return to camp for Happy Hour, a St. Patty’s Day potluck feast and campfire. On Sunday, a quick visit to the infamous Riley town site before heading home. Group size strictly limited. Send $8 per person (Sierra Club), 2 sase, H&W phones, email, rideshare info to Ldr: Lygeia Gerard, PO Box 294726, Phelan, CA 92329; (760) 868-2179. CNRCC Desert Committee.
Sat.-Wed., Mar 13-17 - Death Valley Photo Trip.
Join retired photographer & teacher Graham Stafford on a car camp trip to Death Valley, a photographer’s wonderland. Visit Eureka Dunes, dunes at Stove Pipe Wells, dunes at Saratoga Springs, the Racetrack, and Artist Drive. All levels of photography experience accepted---beginners encouraged. Lessons with class handouts will cover all aspects of your digital camera and general photography. See Graham’s work at www.grahamstafford.com. Leader: Graham Stafford (775)686-8478 graham@grahamstafford.com. Great Basin Group-Toiyabe Chapter.
Sun., Mar 14 - North Group. Skunk Cabbage, Redwood National Park.
This section of the Coastal trail begins in Sitka forest. The trail passes through luxuriant understory vegetation, including impressive skunk cabbage, then rises gradually into second-growth redwoods, reaches a coastal overlook, and eventually descends to the beach. Here we will relax and eat lunch before returning by the same route. Class M-9-A. By registration only. Leader Melinda 707-668-4275 mgroomster@gmail.com.
Sun.-Sat., Mar 14-20, 2010 - Glen Canyon NRA, Escalante River - Service Trip/Backpack.
Assist the National Park Service in eradicating Russian Olive from the Escalante River. Working under the direction of Park Ranger Bill Wolverton, we will gather up slash from previous service trips and burn it. Since 2000, over half of the river has been cleared. Meet in Escalante, Utah Sunday morning, March 14, caravan out to the trailhead and hike in. Work four days, dayhike one day and hike out Saturday morning March 20. Expect knee to thigh deep river crossings, overnight lows near freezing and mild temperatures during the day. Participants will be responsible for their own leather work gloves (highly recommended), food and gear on the trail. Contact Leader Paul Plathe: 209-476-1498. Delta-Sierra Group (Mother Lode Chapter).
Sat., Mar 20 - Mendo Group. Greenfield Ranch Hike Orr Springs Road.
A rare opportunity to walk a scenic 4 mile loop on Greenfield ranch, along Skyhill Rd, affording wonderful views of open rolling countryside and the Ukiah Valley. We’ll see spring waterfalls and wildflowers. The 5000 acre ranch is located 8 miles up Orr Springs Road. We’ll stop for lunch and tea at leader’s home, and then continue on for completion of hike. Bring lunch, wear layered clothing. Class: M-4-A. Inland carpools meet: 9:30am Raleys parking lot Ukiah. Coast carpool, contact Lorraine 937-3799, meet at Big River Beach parking lot, Mendocino 8:30am. By reservation only. Leader Yvonne Kramer 463-0342 kramer@saber.net. Limit 15. Rain cancels.
Sat., Mar 20 - North Group. Headwaters Forest Reserve.
The trailhead is at the end of Elk River Rd. The hike is level for the first 3 miles passing through a scenic second -growth redwood forest along the Elk River. The last 2 miles of trail is a steep climb and loop through a beautiful old-growth section of the redwood forest. Return is along the same route. Class M-11-B. Carpools: Meet 9 am Park & Ride lot intersection of Broadway (Hwy 101) and Herrick Avenue or trailhead 9:30am. No dogs allowed. Leader Xandra 707-441-0702.
Sat.-Sun., Mar 20-21 - Overnight Backpack in the Panamint Mountains.
North of Surprise Canyon on the west side of the Panamints, Hall Canyon and Jail Canyon descend into the Panamint Valley from the slopes of Telescope Peak. This will be a loop trip taking in the lower reaches of these canyons. On Saturday, we’ll hike up Hall Canyon and camp. On Sunday, we’ll make our way across the dividing ridge between Hall Canyon and Jail Canyon and descend the 4WD route to the road. The canyon mouths are short enough that we won’t need to set up a car shuttle. For more information contact leader: John Wilkinson (408) 876-8295, johnfw1@mac.com. CNRCC Desert Committee.
Sun., Mar 21 - Lake Group. Oat Hill Mine Trail.
Meet 8am Oat Hill Mine Trail, Calistoga. Hike up and back. Need sturdy shoes, lots of water, prior long distance hiking. Class S-10-B. By reservation only. Leader: Carol Magill 928-5423, c.magill@mchsi.com.
Sat., Mar 27 - Sonoma Group. Singles Restaurant and Symphony. Santa Rosa.
Let’s meet for dinner at The Cantina 5pm and we will order dinner by 5:30pm to give ample time for food service and eating. We’ll leave by 7:30pm to go to the fabulous volunteer orchestra, The American Philharmonic (Wells Fargo Center for the Arts). Tickets for this event are free with a requested donation. You may come for dinner only or both events. The Cantina is located 500-4th St. We will carpool to WF Ctr at 50 Mark West Springs Rd. RSVP needed by 3/17 for dinner and concert, Karin 539-7855 before 8:30pm.
Sat., Mar 27 - North Group. Centerville Beach/Mouth of Eel River.
Hike begins at Centerville Beach County Park (start at parking area at the beach) and follows the beach northerly between dunes and the tide line. High dunes, meadows and marshlands lie to the east of the beach, farms to the northeast. As the Eel River looms into view, the dunes are lower. Abundant wild flora and occasional wildlife may be present. On the return the route along the Salt River passes by huge old redwood driftwood stumps that have been resting there for many years. Class M-11-A. Carpools: Meet 9am Park & Ride Herrick Ave.and Broadway and 9:45am at Beach. Leader Xandra 707-441-0702.
Later
Sat., Apr 3 - Mendo Group. Walker Lake Boundary.
Route takes us through wildflower meadows, mixed forests and redwoods to Ridgewood Ranch boundary. There is a low water creek crossing. Wear layered clothing and sturdy hiking boots. Bring water, lunch. Meet 10am. Class: M-6-A. By reservation only. Leader Steve 508-8729. Contact Carol for carpools from Santa Rosa. 546-6308 carolvsr@sonic.net. Rain cancels.
Mon.-Sat., Apr 5-10 - Wildflowers and Fence Removal-Carrizo Plain National Monument.
This outing will include three and a half days of service to the monument, removing and modifying fences to allow resident pronghorn to travel more widely. This is the spring wildflower season, and our schedule allows at least a day for exploring, either hiking or driving backcountry roads. With longer daylight hours there may also be time to visit sights in the monument after work. Because we are privileged to be staying at one of the old ranch houses, our trip is limited to 14 participants. $30 covers five dinners. Contact leader: Craig Deutsche, (310-477-6670), craig.deutsche@gmail.com. CNRCC Desert Committee.
Sat., Apr 10 - Napa Group. The ‘Wandering Doodlers’ Second Saturday Hikes.
Grab your paints/pencils and sketchbooks, lace up your hiking boots and join us for a day of hiking and art. After meeting at the trailhead at 9am, we will hike 2 or 3 miles, stop when the inspiration strikes, have lunch and sketch/paint for one or two hours, depending on the temperature, then head back. Bring lunch, water, good hiking boots and appropriate clothing. This will be a monthly outing, scheduled on the 2nd Saturday of each month, beginning Feb 13 and continuing indefinitely. Location will vary. From professional artist to casual doodler, all are welcome, but you must be able to hike 4 to 6 miles. Call leader Isabelle: 707-253-2293 or e-mail: izstguily@gmail.com for details and sign-up.
Sat., Apr 10 - Sonoma Group. Jenner Headlands.
Formerly the Rule Ranch, this $36 million purchase for the public of 5,630 acres with 8 watersheds is the largest conservation land acquisition in Sonoma County. Hiking through Coastal Prairie to the serpentine soil area, we will see incredible views of the Sonoma Coast. We follow rough uneven old ranch roads and ascend 700 feet, hopefully viewing an amazing wildflower display. Bring lunch, liquids, layered clothing and wear sturdy hiking boots. Class M-5-A Meet 9:30 am River Road Park & Ride. We will carpool to Jenner. By reservation only limit of 20. Leader Carol carolvsr@sonic.net 546-6308 Land Trust docent Brook Edwards. Rain Cancels.
Sat., Apr 10 - Solano Group. Explore Mare Island Shoreline Preserve.
Hike Mare Island Hill for views of Mt Tam, Napa Marshes and Sonoma Mountain. View the Spirit Ship sculpture pointing towards the Golden Gate and historic homes overlooking Mare Island Strait. Walk along the Historic Southshore of Mare Island to Pier 35 for shoreline views of San Pablo Bay and Carquinez Strait. We’ll visit an historic cemetery dating from 1858 and see the original Mare Island where 150 years ago the US Navy sited its first West Coast Shipyard. We’ll pass under Great Blue Heron and Osprey nests in the proposed Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve. This is a 5 mile walk on paved and gravel roads, and is great for families. Class E-4-A. 9:30-12:30. From I-80 in Vallejo take the Tennessee St exit west towards Mare Island. Once on Mare Island take the first left on Nimitz and go to 15th St (stop sign). Turn right and follow to Railroad Ave and turn left. Follow Railroad through the South Gate and park along the road.
From Napa take Hwy 29 south to Tennessee St in Vallejo, turn right and follow above directions. From Marin or Sonoma County take the Mare Island exit off Hwy 37 and follow Walnut Ave south to ‘G’ St (1st stop sign) and turn left. Take the 2nd right at Nimitz and follow above directions. Leader Kenn Browne 707-319-1846.
Sun., Apr 11 - Lake Group. Perkins Creek Ridge.
This moderate but long hike starts near the Lake County land fill and then mostly follows the ridge above the main stem of Cache Creek down to Baton Flat. Bring lunch, water, binoculars and your favorite wildflower guide. Class: M-8-A Carpools: Meet 8am Red Bud trail head, 8 miles east of Clear Lake Oaks on Highway 20, at the bridge over the North Fork of Cache Creek. Shuttle to the trail head. By reservation only. Leader Steve Devoto sdevoto@mchsi.com. Rain cancels.
Fri.-Sun., Apr 16-18 - Mojave National Preserve Service Trip.
Come help restore an historic water feature to provide water for wildlife. The work involves protecting several springs by earth work, stabilization work, putting up a fence and some infrastructure in and around a qanat. Our effort will be directed by staff from the Mojave National Preserve. A hike is planned for Friday for those arriving in the morning, if the rains are good this year, there may be plenty of wildflowers. We will work all day Saturday and until noon on Sunday. There will be a ranger talk about the Preserve on Saturday evening. Camping will be rustic. Email or call leader for reservation information. Leader: Rich Juricich, rich.sac@pacbell.net, 916-492-2181. CNRCC Desert Committee.
Sat.-Sun., Apr 24-25 - Owens Valley Work Project.
Project will probably be bashing tamarisk along the Owens River, but could change. Work on Saturday and enjoy the extensive birding opportunities on Sunday. Camp at Diaz Lake just south of Lone Pine. Group potluck on Saturday night Bring all camping gear, or stay in a motel in nearby Lone Pine. For more information, contact leaders Cal and Letty French, lettyfrench@gmail.com Santa Lucia Chapter and CNRCC Desert Committee.
Sat.-Sun., Apr 24-25 - Exploring the Mojave National Preserve.
We will meet Saturday morning 9am at the Teutonia Peak trailhead on Cima Road and hike to Teutonia Peak and out on Cima Dome. Primitive carcamp at Sunrise Rock. Sunday morning, visit the museum/visitor center at Kelso Depot and then on to hike Kelso Dunes. These dunes have various nicknames including the singing dunes and the moaning dunes due to the sounds that they often make, but whatever you call then, they are impressive. For those who want to spend another night, we can camp at the Granite Mountains. For reservations contact leader: Carol Wiley at desertlily1@verizon.net or (760) 245-8734. CNRCC Desert Committee.
Sat.-Sun., Apr 24-25 - Rock Art in Eastern California.
Comfortable spring weather is an ideal time to go exploring. On Saturday, we visit three rock art sites in the southern Owens Valley area bordering the Coso Mountains. On Sunday we will be escorted to (the astonishing) Little Petroglyph Canyon on the China Lake Naval Weapons Station. As government restrictions apply here, all arrangements and confirmations must be completed by April 1 (no joking). High clearance 2WD sufficient, day hiking, Sat. evening potluck. Group limit, 14 participants, Contact leader Craig Deutsche (310-477-6670), craig.deutsche@gmail.com. CNRCC Desert Committee.
Non-Sierra Club Activities
The following activities are not sponsored nor administered by the Sierra Club. The Sierra Club has no information about the planning of these activities and makes no representations or warranties about the quality, safety, supervision or management of such activities. They are published because they may be of interest to the readers of this publication.
Saturday Saunters for Santa Rosa Area.
Every Saturday. Meets 9am and usually ends around 11:30. These walks are moderate. Fun way to exercise with friends. For info call Bob Martin 707-539-6300.
Sonoma County Regional Parks Trail Work Days.
On the day of the project you can call 707-548-4424 for an update or if you get lost coming to the park. Your support and dedication to our County's trails really makes a big difference. To RSVP for any of these projects please call John at 707-565-3356.
|
