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

Adventures with Nature

April 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

April 3, 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.

April 4, Fri., 9:00 am Landscapes & Geology of Valencia Peak Hike the Valencia Peak trail with a Park Interpreter, examining plant communities, birds, coastal geography, and more. At the summit, meet George Mason, Geologist and Docent and learn about regional geology and the human history of the Montana de Oro area. Meet at Valencia Peak trailhead across from the Bluff Trail, Montana de Oro. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring water and snacks. Binoculars suggested. 2700’ elevation change. (S) 5mi.,3hr.

April 4, Fri., 1:00 pm Discover Treasures of Montaña de Oro, Part 1 Tour the Spooner Ranch House and Holloway Garden. Meet in Parking lot of Ranch House. Part 1:(E) 1 hr.

April 4, Fri., 2:00 pm Discover Treasures of Montaña 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

April 5, 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)

April 6, 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)

April 9, Wed., 10:00 am Montaña 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 Montaña de Oro State Park. (*A) 2.5 mi., 2 hr.

April 10, Thu., 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 Montaña 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

April 11, Fri., 9:00 am Quarry Trail to Morro Vistas Hike to the foot of Cerro Cabrillo to view quarry site. Learn about formation of the Morros. Explore seasonal wildflowers and enjoy vistas of the Chorro Valley. View the web of estuary waters on the return. Meet at Quarry Trailhead off South Bay Blvd.(1.5 mi. from Hwy. 1 or 2.6 mi. from Los Osos Valley Rd.) (*M) 3 mi., 2.5 hr.

April 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.

April 12, Sat., 8:30 am Digital Photo Walk - Morro Bay State Park Marina Bring a digital camera on this outing by the Morro Bay State Park Marina, just below the Museum of Natural History. All photographic skill levels are welcome. Docent photographers will help you improve your outdoor and nature photography skills. Meet at the far east end of the Marina parking lot. See photomorrobay.com for more information. (*E) 0.5 mi., 1.5 hrs.

April 12, Sat., 9:00 am Rattlesnake Flats Geology Follow the Rattlesnake Flats Trail along the base of Valencia Peak. Learn about fossils, Pricklecone Pines, marine terraces, seismographs, and the Monterey Formation. Meet at Montana de Oro State Park at the end of Pecho Road in the Coon Creek parking lot. Bring food. . (*A) 4 mi, 4 hr

April 12, 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 Montaña de Oro State Park. (T) 2 hr.

April 13, Sun., 10:00 am Birds, Marine Mammals, and Their Toolkits. The birds, seals, sea lions, and otters along the coast each have specialized features that allow them to succeed in their own niches. We'll take a look at these, and look for the interesting skills they use in feeding and getting around. (E) 2hr., 2 mi.

April 13, Sun., 1:30 pm Plant of the Month Club - Pass the Peas Please Walk among the wild pea family plants while imagining Gregor Mendel growing edible peas in his garden. Learn about our wild peas and their cultivated relatives. Meet in Montana de Oro State Park at the end of Pecho Road in the Coon Creek parking lot. (*M) 3 mi., 2 - 3 hr.

April 13, Sun., 2:00 pm 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.

April 13, 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.

April 14, Mon., 1:00 pm 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 Moñtana de Oro State Park entrance sign. Wear non-skid shoes that can get wet. (A) 2 mi., 3 hr.

April 18, Fri., 9:00 am Birds & Plants of Coon Creek John Sayers, Environmental Scientist and Rouvaishyana, Park Interpreter. We will watch and listen to birds while exploring their relationship to area plants for food, cover, nesting material, and more. Meet at Coon Creek trailhead at the south end of Pecho Rd. Bring binoculars and bird books, wear good hiking shoes. (A) 3-4 mi., 2-3 hr.

April 18, 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.

April 18, Fri., 10:00 am Birds and Nature at Morro Strand Meet and walk from the State Park parking lot at the west end of AzureStreet 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.

April 18, Fri., 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.

April 18, Fri., 1:00 pm Discover Treasures of Montaña de Oro, Part 1 Tour the Spooner Ranch House and Holloway Garden. Meet in Parking lot of Ranch House. Part 1:(E) 1 hr.

April 18, Fri., 1:30 pm Sketch Walk (Islay Creek) See several habitat zones as we walk through the chaparral and into the riparian zone near Islay Creek. Inspect the plants and some shale outcrops. Enjoy the view back to Spooner's Cove and the ocean. Then stroll through the shady woods along the creek. Stop to sketch on the way. No drawing experience necessary. Bring a pad of drawing paper (no larger than 9" by 12"), colored pencils or pastels, and some water to drink. Consider bringing a camera too. Meet at the Visitor's Center, Montana de Oro State Park. (*M) 2.5mi, 3hr.

April 18, 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.

April 18, Fri., 2:00 pm Discover Treasures of Montaña 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

April 19, Sat., 9:00 am Bloody Nose Trail Hike through eucalyptus forest, manzanita grove, coastal sage brush, and seasonal flowers. Study geology. Meet in Montaña de Oro State Park at the intersection of Pecho Valley Rd. and Sandspit Rd., 0.8 mi. from park entrance. (*A) 3.5 mi., 3.5 hr.

April 19, Sat., 9:30 am Easy Birding Enjoy an "Easy Birding" walk. Learn about the many birds that may be found in and around the Cloister's Pond and the nearby Coastal Dune Scrub. Meet at the Cloister's Park Restroom. Wheelchair and limited mobility accessible. From Hwy.I, take the San Jacinto turnoff West. (E) 1.5hr.

April 19, 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.

April 23, Wed., 10:00 am Montaña 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 Montaña de Oro State Park. (*A) 2.5 mi., 2 hr.

April 26, 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.

April 26, Sat., 10:00 am Oceano Lagoon Explore the tranquil surroundings of the lagoon. Learn about the plants and animals found there. Meet at Oceano campground entrance station, Pismo State Beach. (*E) 1.5 mi., 2 hr.

April 26, Sat., 11:00 am Morro Rock Is Morro Rock the eroded remains of an ancient volcano? This talk may change your thinking about the origin of our famous landmark. Meet at the Museum Auditorium in Morro Bay State Park. (T), 2 hrs.

April 30, Wed., 10:00 am Gray Whale Parade Search for gray whales. Learn about these barnacled beauties and their incredibly long migration. Bring binoculars. Meet at the northern-most parking lot along Moonstone Beach, located near the intersection of Highway One and Moonstone Beach Drive, Cambria. (E)1/2mi, 2hr.

May 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

May 2, Fri., 9:00 am Birds at the Oceano Lagoon A leisurely walk through the native plant gardens and along the shores of the lagoon to view a large variety of birds including songbirds, woodpeckers, warblers, waterfowl and many more , possibly birds of prey too. Meet at the Nature Center at the Oceano Campground, Pismo State Beach Park. Suggest binoculars and a bird field guide. (E) 0.5 mi. 1.5 to 2 hrs.

May 3, Sat., 9:30 am Digital Photo Walk -Montaña de Oro Ranch House Bring a digital camera on this short photo outing around the Montaña de Oro State Park Ranch House and Campground. All photographic skill levels are welcome.Docent photographers will help you improve your outdoor and nature photography. Meet at the ranch house parking area. See photomorrobay.com fr more information. (*E) 0.5 mi., 1.5

May 3, Sat., 9:30 am Easy Birding Enjoy an "Easy Birding" walk. Learn about the many birds that may be found in and around the Cloister's Pond and the nearby Coastal Dune Scrub. Meet at the Cloister's Park Restroom. Wheelchair and limited mobility accessible. From Hwy.I, take the San Jacinto turnoff West. (E) 1.5hr.

May 3, Sat., 10:00 am Oceano Lagoon Explore the tranquil surroundings of the lagoon. Learn about the plants and animals found there. Meet at Oceano campground entrance station, Pismo State Beach. (*E) 1.5 mi., 2 hr.

May 3, Sat., 10:15 am Why Here? A short hour walk from the front of the Morro Bay Natural History Museum to the top of White Point. We will be looking at numerous environments and learning which birds these habitats support. This walk requires a steep but short climb. Dress for wind.. (M) 1/2 mi., 1 hr.

May 3, 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)

May 3, 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.

May 3, Sat., 2:00 pm Day at Grandpa's Farm Come to the picnic area of Morro Bay State Park Campground to milk a cow, use the milk to make biscuits from scratch and cut wood to cook the biscuits 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.

May 4, 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)

May 5, Mon., 12:30 pm Lunchtime Look See at the Rookery Join a docent to 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 every Monday 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. Wheelchair accessible. Park in the 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.

May 10, Sat., 9:00 am Cayucos Beach Walk Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Cayucos Beach and view various forms of sea life, including kelp, organisms in the tide pools and shore birds. Meet at the pier at Cayucos Beach by the restroom. Wear sturdy shoes and layered clothing for wind protection. Bring binoculars. (E) 1mi., 1.5-2 hrs.

May 10, Sat., 10:30 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.

May 10, 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 Montaña de Oro State Park. (T) 2 hr.

May 12, Mon., 12:30 pm Lunchtime Look See at the Rookery Join a docent to 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 every Monday 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. Wheelchair accessible. Park in the 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.

May 14, Wed., 9:00 am Bloody Nose Trail Hike through eucalyptus forest, manzanita grove, coastal sage brush, and seasonal flowers. Study geology. Meet in Montaña de Oro State Park at the intersection of Pecho Valley Rd. and Sandspit Rd., 0.8 mi. from park entrance. (*A) 3.5 mi., 3.5 hr.

May 16, Fri., 1:00 pm Discover Treasures of Montaña de Oro, Part 1 Tour the Spooner Ranch House and Holloway Garden. Meet in Parking lot of Spooner Ranch House. (E) 1 hr.

May 16, Fri., 2:00 pm Discover Treasures of Montaña 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

May 17, 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.

May 17, 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.

May 18, Sun., 9:00 am Quarry Trail to Morro Vistas Hike to the foot of Cerro Cabrillo to view quarry site. Learn about formation of the Morros. Explore seasonal wildflowers and enjoy vistas of the Chorro Valley. View the web of estuary waters on the return. Meet at Quarry Trailhead off South Bay Blvd.(1.5 mi. from Hwy. 1 or 2.6 mi. from Los Osos Valley Rd.) (*M) 3 mi., 2.5 hr.

May 19, Mon., 12:30 pm Lunchtime Look See at the Rookery Join a docent to 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 every Monday 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. Wheelchair accessible. Park in the 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.

May 22, 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.

May 22, Thu., 10:00 am Montaña 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 Montaña de Oro State Park. (*A) 2.5 mi., 2 hr.

May 23, 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.

May 23, 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.

May 24, Sat., 8:00 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 Moñtana de Oro State Park entrance sign. Wear non-skid shoes that can get wet. (A) 2 mi., 3 hr.

May 24, Sat., 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.

May 24, Sat., 9:00 am Hike the Estero Bluff Hike the entire Estero Bluff trail, watching for harbor seals, sea otters, and a variety of bird life, all thriving in association with the kelp forest. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy mid-way on this round-trip hike. Also bring water and binoculars. Meet at the north end of Cayucos, at the intersection of North Ocean and Highway One. (A) 6+mi, 5 hr.

May 24, 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 Montaña de Oro State Park. (T) 2 hr.

May 24, Sat., 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.

May 25, Sun., 2:00 pm Plant of the Month Club - Golden Stars & Fairy Lanterns - Plants adapt to the seasons in different ways, offering their flowers and fruits at different times of year. Have you ever seen the "Fairy Lanterns or the Golden Stars"? Bring a camera or a sketch pad and see these stunning flowers. Meet at the Cerro Cabrillo Parking lot off South Bay Blvd.(1.5 mi. from Hwy.1, or 2.6 mi. from Los Osos Valley Rd.) The Cerro Cabrillo Day Use Area is on the east (uphill) side of the road. (M) 2mi., 2hrs.

May 29, 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.

May 30, Fri., 1:00 pm Discover Treasures of Montaña de Oro, Part 1 Tour the Spooner Ranch House and Holloway Garden. Meet in Parking lot of Spooner Ranch House. (E) 1 hr.

May 30, Fri., 2:00 pm Discover Treasures of Montaña 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

May 31, Sat., 10:15 am Out of The Ice Age Since the last ice age ended 18,000 years ago climate change has advanced the ocean shoreline 7 miles. This caused ancestors of the Chumash to retreat the rising waters and abandon three estuaries and villages the remains of which are located on the bottom of Estero Bay. About 10,000 years ago they witnessed the extinction of many species of large mammals. Meet at Morro Bay State Park Museum. (T) 2 hrs