What a better way kick start the new year than by getting some fresh air and enjoying the outdoors with the Annual First Day Hikes. California State Parks will participate at parks across the state in this national-led effort that encourages individuals and families to experience the beautiful natural and cultural resources found in the outdoors with a seasoned guide so that they may be inspired to take advantage of these treasures throughout the year.

Guided hikes in and around the Bay Area include Angel Island, the Santa Cruz Mountains (Butano), Santa Cruz (Wilder Ranch), San Rafael (China Camp), Clear Lake, Felton, Glen Ellen, and a lighthouse hike in Pescadero.

Dedicated docents, volunteers and staff will show visitors the wonders of California’s state parks. Distance and rigor will vary per hike/activity, so visitors are encouraged to check out details of start times and descriptions of hikes. Below you will find a list and detailed information on the California State Park’s First Day Hikes.

Whether you are an experienced outdoor enthusiast or a new one, we look forward to seeing you in California’s park trails, beaches, mountains and the deserts but ask that you recreate responsibly. Visit the latest COVID-19 guidelines and additional safety tips for more information. 

Visitors are encouraged to share their experiences on social media using the hashtags: #HikeInto2022, #FirstDayHike and #CAStateParks. Read more at the California Department of Parks and Recreation.

California’s Annual First Day Hikes

In alphabetical order by park:
(Updated Dec. 28, 2021)

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Park: Anderson Marsh State Historic Park
Where: Start at the parking lot
Time: noon
Parking: Main parking lot.
What to expect: Join State Park Volunteers for a guided loop hike following Nature Trail, connecting to Cache Creek trail and back along the Anderson Flats Trail. This guided hike will be on the dirt trail and the board walk along Cache Creek providing opportunities to see various species of birds along the various habitat zones of the park unit.
Length of hike: 3 miles.The hike is considered easy to moderate and will take about three hours.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preparation: Participants should dress appropriately for the changing weather, bring water, binoculars, and cameras.
Special instructions: Rain will cancel the hike.
Contact: Interpreter III [email protected] or Anderson Marsh State Park Interpretive Association at [email protected].

Park: Angel Island State Park
Where: Ayala Cove ferry dock to Mt. Livermore.
Time: 10:45 a.m.
Ferry schedule and information: From Tiburon, visit www.angelislandferry.com. From San Francisco, to be determined. Please contact park.
What to expect: Learn about the diverse cultural and natural history of Angel Island on a moderately difficult hike to the 788-foot summit of Mt. Livermore, including trail stairs, switchbacks, and moderate hills via the Northridge Trail, returning on the Sunset Trail. There will be time for lunch at the summit with 360-degree views of the Bay Area, including San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge, weather permitting.
Length of hike: The hike is 4.5 miles and will take approximately 4 hours, including lunch and breaks.
Ages: 6 and up preferred. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preparation: Dress in layers and bring rain gear if needed. Wear good hiking boots/shoes. Bring water, snacks, and lunch.
Special instructions: The hike will happen, rain or shine! In case of inclement weather or poor trail conditions, the route may be altered.
Contact: [email protected] or (415) 435-5537.

Park: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Where: Panorama Overlook Trail.
Time: 2 – 4:30 p.m.
Parking: Visitor Center Parking ($9 or $10 Day-Use per vehicle or Annual Pass or 4^th Grade Adventure Pass).
What to expect: Starting at the Visitor Center, explore desert plants, crypto-biotic crust, and signs of animals as we walk cross-country to the ½-mile Panorama Overlook Trail. Ascend by switch-backs about 200 ft up the moderate-strenuous trail to a scenic overlook of the Borrego Valley and Fonts Point. With luck, we might even see bighorn sheep! At the viewpoint, reflect on your new year with a lighthearted introspection guided by Park Interpretive Specialist Regina Reiter. Walk down the mountain as the sun sets on your first day of 2022!
Length of Hike: About 2 miles
Ages: 7 and up. Children need to be accompanied by an adult.
Special instructions: Wear sturdy shoes, bring at least 1 liter of water, a hat, and a flashlight. Trekking poles are helpful.
Contact: [email protected]

Park: Asilomar State Beach & Conference Grounds
Where: Asilomar Social Hall
Time: 8:00 a.m.
Parking: Parking is available along Sunset Avenue. Please park off the pavement to keep bike path clear. Parking is also available on the Asilomar Conference Grounds.
What to expect: This easy to moderate hike is open to visitors of all ages and will take us along the mile long Asilomar Coast trail and back (two miles round trip). This hike will take place during one of the highest tides of a three day King Tides event. We will also point out many of the native plant species along the way as well as the park’s natural inhabitants.
Special instructions: Check the weather before attending and dress accordingly. Dress in layers and wear good walking shoes. Sun protection is recommended. You may also want to bring binoculars for a closer look at birds or sea life. Bring water or a hot beverage to enjoy! Inclement weather will cancel.
Contact information:[email protected]

Park: Auburn State Recreation Area
Where: Quarry Trail (Cool, CA – El Dorado County) or Auburn Dam Construction Site
Times: Both hikes begin at 9 a.m.
Parking:

• For Quarry Trail Hike park at the Quarry Trail Parking Area. $10 Day-Use fee per vehicle. (or parallel park in designated spaces along Hwy. 49 in El Dorado County)
• For the Auburn Dam Construction site park at the Oregon Hill Parking Lot. $10 Day-Use fee per vehicle. (Auburn, CA – Placer County)

What to Expect:

• Quarry Trail Hike: This moderate hike exercises your navigation skills while exploring flora, fauna, geology, and mountain quarries history. Dogs on leash are welcome. The hike route has one short technical section. The hike is 3.5-miles and lasts between 2.5 to 3 hours.
• Auburn Dam Construction Site: This easy, out-and-back hike takes attendees to the Auburn Dam construction site, high above the North Fork American River. Although dam construction was halted in the early 1980s, the Auburn Dam remains a congressionally authorized project. Attendees will learn about the history of the Auburn Dam project and the forces that have hindered its construction. Pets are not allowed on this hike. The hike is 2 to 3 miles and lasts between 2 to 3 hours.

Ages: All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preparation: Dress in layers and wear good hiking boots/shoes. Bring water and snacks.
Special instructions: Heavy rain will cancel. Bring a park map and compass if you have one.
Contact: For the Quarry Trail, email [email protected]; For the Auburn Dam Construction Site hike, email [email protected].

Park: Burleigh Murray Ranch Park Property
Where: Old Ranch Road
Time: 10 a.m.
Parking: Parking lot.
What to expect: Hike leader Ginny Conboy will participants to a journey back in time along Mills Creek. Along the way visitors will learn about the lives of early pioneers and farming families who first settled here in the 19th century.  Enjoy one of our area’s hidden treasures.
Length of Hike: Easy 2.5-mile hike.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preparation: Dress in layers and bring water and snacks.
Special instructions: No pets.
Things to bring: (water, snowshoes, snacks, etc.):
Contact: Joe Rogers, [email protected] or call (650) 726-8814

Park: Butano State Park
Where: Six Bridges Trail
Time: 10 a.m.
Parking: Picnic area. Vehicle day-use fee is $10.
What to expect: Hike leaderElexis Padron will take participants to celebrate the new year with a short hike through the majesty of the redwoods and revel in their resilience. Visitors can ponder over the new growth that has sprouted from the burn scar. This short loop through the Six Bridges Trail and the main park road starts and ends at the picnic area, concluding with an optional art activity involving nature printing.
Length of Hike: Moderate 1.5-mile hike with a 460-feet elevation gain.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preparation: Dress in layers and bring water and snacks.
Special instructions: No pets.
Contact:[email protected] or Joe Rogers, [email protected] or call (650) 726-8814.

Park: Calaveras Big Trees State Park
Where: North Grove Area
Time: 9:30 a.m.
Parking: Visitor Center or Resources Building Parking Lot
What to expect: This easy to moderate hike will explore a Scenic Overlook and North Grove area. The North Grove is historically significant and hikers can enjoy a mixed conifer forest community. Visitors will walk among the world’s largest trees and have the opportunity to spot winter wildlife.
Length of hike: The hike will be between about three miles and last between two and three hours.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preparation: Dress in layers, be prepared for rain, and wear hiking shoes. Bring water and snacks.
Special instructions: Snow or icy conditions cancels. Meet at the Warming Hut which is located near the Visitor Center.
Contact: [email protected]

Park: Cardiff State Beach
Where: Seaside Parking lot near Tower 11.
Time: 11 a.m.
Parking: Day use fee applies
What to expect: Join us for a brisk 45-minute “First Day” walk. Meet near Lifeguard Tower #11 and begin the walk north toward the Living Shoreline Project’s rare Sand Dune trail. We will walk toward Cardiff Reef and return along the beach, ending our walk at the tidepools near Tower 10. Low tide is scheduled for 1:06 p.m. with a -.02 Ft. tide. The interpretive level is moderate. Staff will discuss the wildlife and plants that inhabit the sandy shore, while staying on the lookout for possible whale or dolphin sightings. If mobility is limited, meet us at the tide pools around 12:45 p.m.
Ages: All ages, children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Special instructions: All ages are welcome, but the sand is not stroller-friendly, and there will be some uneven terrain. Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, jacket, binoculars if you have them.
Contact: Interpreter Sandy at [email protected]. 

Park: Carpinteria State Beach
Where: Park Visitor Center
Time: 9 a.m.
Parking: Day Use Parking Lot
What to Expect: This easy to moderate hike will take people through the state beach to learn about several points of interest including the Tar Pits and Carpinteria Creek. Hikers will have the option of joining a longer hike along the Carpinteria Bluffs trail to the Harbor Seal Rookery. Participants are likely to see harbor seals, egrets, herons, and other shoreline birds.
Length of hike: The shorter hike is approximately 1 mile long and the extended hike option will be around 2.5 miles round trip.
Ages: All ages.
Contact information:[email protected]

Park: Caswell Memorial State Park
Where: Lower Parking Lot
Time: 10 a.m.
Parking: $10 day use fee.
What to expect: This easy hike will explore the riparian oak forest around the Stanislaus River. The trail will wind along the river and into the forest. Visitors will be able to see lots of native oaks and wild roses. Visitors might be able to see local wildlife such as a riparian  brush rabbit, birds of prey, and possibly a fox.
Length of hike: The hike will be around 1 mile round trip and will take approximately 1 hour.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preparation: Dress in layers and wear good hiking boots/shoes. Bring water and snacks.
Special instructions: Rain cancels.
Contact: [email protected]

Park: China Camp State Park
Where: China Camp Ranger Station.
Time: 6:30 – 8:30 a.m.
Parking: Bullhead Flat Parking Lot.
What to expect: Want to celebrate the new year in a profound way? Then come with us to ring in 2022 under the open sky as we watch the sunrise over San Pablo Bay. Join naturalist Harold Hirsch for this 4-mile sunrise hike to a stunning vista point to welcome the first golden light of the year. Refreshments will be served afterwards.
Length of hike: 4-mile hike.
Preparation: Dress in layers and wear good hiking boots/shoes. Bring water and snacks.
Ages: Ages 10 and up. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Special instructions: Rain cancels.
Contact: Register at https://friendsofchinacamp.org/event/new-years-day-sunrise-hike/. Questions? Email [email protected]

Park: Chino Hills State Park
Where: Rolling M Ranch Campground
Time: 9 a.m.
Parking: Rolling M Ranch Campground
What to expect: The easy to moderate hike will go at a slow pace through Upper Aliso Canyon. Visitors may encounter mule deer, coyotes and the first signs of wildflowers, although they may not yet be sprouting yet.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Length of hikes: The hike will be about 2 hours and cover approximately two to three miles.
Preparation: Wear layered clothing and good boots or shoes. Rain will cancel the hike. Bring water and snacks.
Contact: [email protected]

Park: Clear Lake State Park
Where: Start at the Visitor Center Parking Lot
Time: 9 a.m.
Parking: Visitor Center Parking Lot
What to expect: Join State Park Volunteers for a guided hike following the Old Kelsey Creek trail.  This guided hike will follow along the trail and board walk providing opportunities to see birds along the water slough and from the shoreline of Clear Lake. The hike is less than a mile in length. Hikers will go out to shoreline of Clear Lake and walk back on same trail.
Length of hike: The hike is considered easy and will take about two hours.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preparation: Participants should dress appropriately for the changing weather, bring water, binoculars, and cameras.
Special instructions: Rain will cancel the hike.
Contact information: Interpreter III [email protected] or visit the park webpage.

Park: Crystal Cove State Park
Where: Moro Backcountry
Time: 9-11 a.m.
What to expect: In collaboration with the nationwide event “First Day Hike” and in celebration of New Year’s Day, State Park volunteer Tom Eastman will lead a guided interpretive hike in the backcountry of Crystal Cove State Park. We’ll look for birds, bobcats, butterflies, and buckwheat and enjoy a beautiful morning on the trails and in the canyon on this 3-mile moderate hike. 
Length of hike: 3-mile moderate hike.
Parking: Meet at the Berns Amphitheater (PCH inland at stoplight School-State Park follow the signs to the Campground/Moro day use.)   Lower Moro, meet at Berns Amphitheater; $15 day-use
Ages: 8 on up.
Special instructions: Rain cancels
Contact: www.crystalcovestatepark.org  

Park: Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Where: The Stonewall Mine area.
Time: 9 a.m.
Parking: At Trout Pond Parking
What to expect: This easy to moderate hike will explore the area around the Stonewall Mine where a mixed conifer forest is inter-mixed with meadows. Visitors can  be on the lookout for bald eagles, kestrels and other birds of prey. Mule deer and wild turkeys are common in this area and there is a good chance of observing these park residents here. Peeks of Lake Cuyamaca can be seen throughout the hike along with the seasonal dry lakebed that is a beautiful crimson color during the winter.
Length of hike: The hike will be between two and three miles and last between two and three hours.
Preparation: Dress in layers and wear good hiking boots/shoes. Bring water and snacks.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Special instructions: Rain cancels. Snow cancels if the weather is stormy or the roads are icy.
Contact: [email protected] 

Park: Gaviota State Park
Where: Gaviota Wind Caves
Time: 9 a.m.
Parking: Beach to Backcountry Trailhead.         
What to Expect: The Wind Caves Hike will take participants through the backcountry of the park. Visitors will encounter beautiful views of the Gaviota Coast and surrounding hills. The main point of interest are the spectacular sandstone wind caves. The Wind Caves hike is rated moderate; although, the trail may be strenuous at points nearing the caves.
Length of hike: Roundtrip distance is approximately 2 miles.
Preparation: Dress in layers and wear good hiking shoes. Please bring plenty of water and snacks.
Ages: All ages are welcome.
Special instructions: The Beach to Backcountry Trailhead is located on Hollister Ranch Road. Instead of entering the park at the kiosk, turn to the right onto Hollister Ranch Road. Proceed to the top of the hill. At the top of the hill, there will be a small parking area with a gate. This is the Beach to Backcountry Trailhead.
Contact: Call: (805)-968-1033 or visit Gaviota State Park.

Park: Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area
Where: Mudstone Ranchparking lot
Time: 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Parking: Meet atthe Mudstone Ranch parking lot, which is located approximately 2 miles south of Hollister. From Union Road, turn south onto Cienega Road. At the stop sign, turn right to stay on Cienega Road. In about 1.5 miles, look for the wooden arch over the parking lot on the right/west side of the road. Entry fee is $5 per vehicle.
What to Expect: 

• 9 a.m.: This 1.5-mile hike is one hour easy to moderate on the Pepper Tree Loop. Dogs on leash are welcome.
• 1 p.m.: The 5-mile hike is 3-4 hour moderate to strenuous on the Road Runner to Razorback Loop. Dogs on leash are welcome.

Preparation: Please bring water, layered clothing, and hiking shoes.
Ages: all ages
Contact: Visit ohv.parks.ca.gov/hollisterhills. Email [email protected] or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube (@HollisterHillsSVRA). You can also reach us by calling (831) 636-2065.

Park: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Where: Redwood Grove (for kids) and Redwood Grove & River Trail
Time: 9 a.m. and noon
Parking: Visitor Center
What to expect:

• Redwood Grove at 9 a.m.: Hike leader Donna Grande will  cover the redwood basics for kids and explore through the old-growth redwood grove. Learn about these tall trees and the place in which they live, in addition to the animals that call this forest home. For ages four and eight. This easy hike is 1.5 hours/0.8 miles. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
•  Redwood Grove & River Trail at noon: Hike leader Sanda Spiegel will meander folks through the redwood forest and down River Trail to Cable Car Beach. Furthermore, participants will experience two of the park’s ecosystems: the forest and riparian. Learn about the redwood and river ecology, see wildlife of both ecosystems, and more. For ages 8 and up. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Preparation: Wear extra layers, and bring water and snacks.
Special instructions: No pets.
Contact: Cancellation Information: [email protected] or call (831)335-7077.

Park: Humboldt Lagoons State Park
Where: Visitor Center.
Time: 10 a.m.
Parking: Visitor Center.
What to expect: This easy to moderate paddle will explore the waters and shoreline of Stone Lagoon. Visitors can be on the lookout for bald eagles, ospreys and other birds of prey. Roosevelt Elk, deer and river otters are common in this area and there is a good chance of observing these park residents here. Peeks of the Pacific Ocean can be seen throughout the paddle and our halfway stop will be on the sand spit that separates the lagoon from the Pacific Ocean.
Length of paddle: The paddle will be between two and three miles and last between two and three hours.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preparation: Must have own paddle powered vessel (kayak, canoe, SUP etc.) and lifejacket. Dress in layers and wear waterproof clothing. Bring water and snacks.
Special instructions: Rain and/or wind events cancels.
Contact: [email protected].

Park: Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Where: Founders Grove
Time: 11 a.m.
Parking: Founders Grove parking lot.
What to expect: The Founders Grove loop trail is ADA accessible and less than half a mile in length. There will be frequent stops to explore the amazing characteristics of an old-growth forest.
Length of hike: Less than half a mile.
Ages: All ages. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preparation: Dress in layers and wear good hiking boots/shoes. Bring water and snacks.
Special instructions: Rain and/or heavy winds cancel.
Contact information: Griff Griffith at [email protected].

Park: Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area
Where: Check-in for all hikes is at the Hungry Valley SVRA Activity Center
Times: 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m.
Parking: Edison Canyon Campground near the north entrance to the park is frequently used for day use parking. You can ride to the Activity Center located adjacent to the ATV Campground toward the middle of the park from any of the park’s 11 campgrounds.
What to expect: The three separate guided trail rides are geared for all ages and abilities. Bring water and wear the appropriate riding gear including a helmet.
Preparation: Dress in layers and wear the appropriate riding gear including a helmet. Bring water and snacks.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Special instructions: Rain cancels. Visit www.Facebook.com/hungryvalleysvra for more information and updates.
Contact: Callista Turner at [email protected] or visit www.Facebook.com/hungryvalleysvra.

Park: Jack London State Historic Park
Where: Glen Ellen, Sonoma County
Time: 10 a.m. to approximately 2:30 p.m.
Parking: Park and meet in the Ranch lot, to the right of the entrance kiosk.
What to Expect: The hike can be a personal challenge to make it to the park’s summit or the first step in a commitment to a healthier new year. Either way, it is designed for all fitness levels with guides to help hikers return to the parking lot at any time.
Length of hike: The roundtrip route is eight miles long and moderately strenuous.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preparation: Dress in layers and wear good hiking boots/shoes. Bring water and snacks.
Special instructions: Register at https://jacklondonpark.com/events/first-day-hike-2022/. Tickets are $10 per person, in addition to $10 per car entry fee (up to nine passengers). The event will be cancelled in the event of rain.
Contact: [email protected]

Park: Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park
Where: Simpson-Reed Grove/Peterson Memorial Trail
Time: 9 a.m.
Parking: Turn onto Walker Road from US 199 near mile marker 2.7. Immediately park in designated spaces alongside Walker Road before grouping up at the Simpson-Reed Trailhead.
What to Expect: This ranger-led hike is along a 1.0 mile long accessible trail weaving beneath some of the world’s last remaining old growth coastal redwoods. A few stops will be made along the way to learn about the native flora and fauna within the delicate redwood ecosystem. Elevation gain across the entire compacted gravel and dirt trail is approximately 20 feet ensuring a relaxing yet inspiring way to begin the New Year.
Length of hike: One mile and should last approximately 45 minutes at a relaxed pace.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preparation: Wear warm layers, boots or other waterproof shoes, and a rain jacket are recommended. Bring water and snacks.
Special Instructions: High winds and rain will cancel hike due to risk of redwood trees falling across trail.
Contact: [email protected]

Park: La Purísima State Historic Park
What: Last Day Hike 2021
Where: La Artemisia to Santa Rita to Vista de la Cruz
Time: 10 a.m. on December, 31 2021
Meet: Front of visitor center
What to expect: Our Last Day Hike will take us past a few of the historic buildings and sites which we’ll talk about before we turn onto the trail that leads us into the eastern hillside of the mission grounds. We’ll see some of the flora and fauna of the area and discuss how this land used to look and what some of these plants were used for. We’ll follow along the Santa Rita trail south to make our way towards the cross that let visitors during the mission days know where the mission was and helped guide them. We’ll finish with a “birds-eye” view of the mission from the hillside and discuss not only the past of the valley but it’s future, as we see the mission and the rocket launch sites in the same view, along with wind turbines being built on the distant hills. We’ll walk down a mild switch back to the visitor’s center where we will complete our hike. From there they can enjoy the visitor center, the rest of the mission grounds, or anything else they’d like to do. There will be a few stops along the hike to take in the views of the valley.
Length of hike: 1.66 miles. Hike should take approximately 1 hour to 1 and a half hours to complete, depending on group pace. The trail is easy, well-cared for and has minor elevation gain and walking on soft sand.
Ages: For children old enough to hike a mile or be carried by parent or guardian. All children must be accompanied by parent or guardian. Not recommended for strollers or similar. There are spots where the trail is a bit sandy.
Preparation: Bring water.
Special instructions: Check Facebook
Contact: [email protected]

Park: Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
Where: Meet at Museum for Monroe Ridge Trail hike and Monument Trail hike
Time: 10 a.m. for both hikes.
Parking: Sawmill Parking Lot
What to Expect:  

• Monroe Ridge Trail Hike – This hike is strenuous for the first portion and then a moderate hike down. The Monroe Ridge Trail offers the chance to view the Lotus community in the valley below, at the first rest stop, and at the second stop you look down to the location where gold was discovered on January 24, 1848 by James W. Marshall. That discovery prompted people worldwide to race to Coloma, resulting in the largest voluntary migration of people in North America. The elevation changes from around 700 feet above sea level at the museum to 1276 feet above sea level at the highest point on the trail. The hike is approximately 2 miles and lasts about 2 hours.
• Monument Trail Hike – This is an easy hike uphill and then back downhill. The Monument Trail leads you to the James Marshall Monument, the burial site of the discoverer of gold on January 24, 1848. Views of the valley below and Mount Murphy culminate in a gentle hike down the road. A stop at James Marshall’s Cabin is part of the itinerary. Across from the cabin is an historic cemetery. Continuing on down the hill, visitors will pass by St. John’s Catholic Church, the Thomas House and the Coloma Jail. Once at the bottom, visitors are only a grassy field away from the museum. The hike is approximately 1/2 mile and lasts about 45 minutes to an hour.

Preparation: Bring water and snacks, clothing in layers, and boots recommended.
Ages: 10 years old (or a 4th Grader) accompanied by a parent or guardian; and older.
Special Instructions: Cancelled if heavy rain occurs; No pets; No strollers.
Contact:  [email protected] or call the museum at 530-622-3470

Park: Millerton Lake State Recreation Area
Where: Boat Ramp #1 (by the Historic Millerton Courthouse)
Time: 8:30 a.m.
Parking: Included with $20 per person tour fee, payable by cash or check in person the morning of the tour.
What to expect: This is a ranger led 3-hour boat tour aboard State Park’s 25 person eagle tour barge. Millerton Lake has the largest population of wintering bald eagles in the San Joaquin Valley. Other wildlife viewing opportunities on this tour include resident golden eagles, waterfowl, and migratory bird species.
Length of tour: Approximately 3 hours
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Lifejackets are provided, and are required to be worn at all times by children under 12 years old.
Preparation: Dress in layers and bring a blanket. You may want to bring binoculars, but they will be available to borrow as well.
Special instructions: Reservations are required for the tour.  Seating is limited to 25 people, and sell out fast. Heavy fog cancels the tour due to safety considerations, but tour goes on in rain if conditions allow.
Contact: Please call the San Joaquin Sector Office at (559) 822-2332 to make reservations, or you can email any questions to [email protected]

Park: Montara State Beach
McNee Ranch State Park
Where: Gray Whale Cove Trail
Time:10 a.m.
Parking: Gray Whale Cove State Beach North Parking Lot
What to expect: Montara mountain (also known as McNee Ranch) is part of Montara State Beach and hike leader Emily Richards will take participants on a moderate 2 mile hike overlooking the California coast at McNee Ranch. From the trail, visitors will be able to view evidence in the landscape of the Ocean Shore Railroad and bunkers left over from the World War II era. Enjoy the ocean views, the coastal plants, and the birds on this exciting hike.
Length of Hike: 2 miles.
Preparation: Dress in layers and bring water, snacks, and sunscreen.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Special instructions: No pets.
Contact: [email protected] or [email protected], or call (650) 726-8814.

Name: Natural Bridges State Beach
Where: Monarch Loop and Moore Creek Trail
Time: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Parking: Visitor center. Vehicle day-use fee is $10.
What to expect:

• Monarch Loop at 11 a.m.: Hike leader Anne Cassell will take participants through the monarch grove and see the diversity of habitats in this state park. 1 mile, easy with 1 short scramble over rocks
• Moore Creek Trail at 2 p.m.: Hike leader Martha Nitzberg will explore with participants the diversity of habitats in this State Park on a walk out to the Marine Protected, rocky tidepools. Fairly Easy with 1 short scramble over rocks and a short narrow hillside trail.

Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preparation: Wear extra layers and tennis shoes. Bring water and snacks.
Special instructions: No pets
Contact: [email protected] or call (831) 423-4609 Ext. 8.

Park: New Brighton State Beach
Where: On the beach
Time: 2:30 p.m.
Parking: On the beach below the day use parking lot. Vehicle day-use fee is $10.
What to Expect: Hike leader Ashley Wemp will take participants on an easy hike from New Brighton to Capitola during a negative tide. We will encounter interesting geological features, 5-million-year-old whale fossils, and tide pool creatures.
Length of hike: 2 miles.
Ages: 5 and up. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian
Preparation: Wear extra layers and appropriate shoes with good grip. Bring, water and snacks.
Special instructions: To make a reservation, visit https://SantaCruzStateParks.as.me/newbrightonfirstday. No pets.
Contact: [email protected] or call (831) 685-6444.

Park: Palomar Mountain State Park
Where: Boucher Hill Observation Point. Meet at the intersection of Boucher Road, Nate Harrison Road, Doane Valley Road, and State Park Road.
Time: 9:30 a.m.
Parking: Parking costs $10 per vehicle.
What to Expect: Will Meyst, Park Interpretive Specialist, will lead the moderate hike to enjoy the company of friends or family. Discover the roots of our past. Experience the best view in San Diego.
Length of hike: 1.5 miles in length with 370 ft elevation gain and subsequent 370 elevation loss, approximately 1.5-2 hours
Preparation: Wear closed toe hiking boots or sturdy shoes, plenty of water, snacks, hat, sunscreen, dress in layers, possibility of inclement weather. This is a dog friendly hike. We will be staying on the paved portion of Boucher Road on our hike.

Park: Pescadero State Beach
Where: Sequoia Audubon Trail
Time: 1 p.m.
Parking: Middle Pescadero State Beach parking lot.
What to Expect: Hike leader Bob Fox will take participants on an easy two-hour stroll on the mile-long Sequoia Audubon Trail through the Pescadero Marsh State Natural Reserve. Learn about the fascinating human history of the Marsh from the days of the Ohlone to the present. Discover the byways of the Pescadero and Butano Creeks as they flow through this restored marsh to meet the Pacific Ocean.
Length of Hike: 2 miles.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preparation: Dress in layers and bring water, snacks, binoculars, and sunscreen.
Special instructions: No pets.
Contact: [email protected] or call (650) 726-8814.

Park: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Where: “Waterfalls and Vistas Nature Walk” on Pfeiffer Falls and Valley View Trail and “Creatures of the Night Hike” on River Path and Warden’s Path
Time: 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Parking: Day Use Lot 1
What to expect:

• “Waterfalls and Vistas Nature Walk”:  Starting at 2 p.m., this moderate hike takes visitors through varying habitats of Big Sur beginning in the redwoods to Pfeiffer Falls and climb to Valley View and see an aerial view of the Big Sur River Valley. This two-and-a-half-mile, two-hour hike climbs approximately 600 feet in elevation. Meet at the Redwood Deck near the Big Sur Lodge Restaurant.
• “Creatures of the Night Hike”: At 6 p.m., visitors can come out in the dark for a glimpse into the night life of Big Sur. Discover how animals use their senses at night during this one hour easy walk. This approximately one-mile hike is an easy accessible trail. Meet at the Campfire Center.

Preparation: Dress in layers and wear good hiking boots/shoes. Bring water and a snack.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Special instructions: Rain cancels. Heavy wind storm cancels. Check at kiosk upon park entrance.
Contact information: [email protected]

Park: Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park
Where: Mel’s Lane Trail
Time: 10 a.m.
Parking: Parking Lot
What to expect: Hike leader Dan Clearwater will take participants on a trip back in time while exploring the rocky coast of California. Learn about historic shipwrecks and the significance of the lighthouse, which helps to guide vessels to their final destination today.
Length of Hike: Easy 0.75-mile hike.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preparation: Dress in layers and bring water, snacks, binoculars, and sunscreen.
Special instructions: No pets.
Contact: [email protected] or [email protected] or call (650) 726-8814.

Park: Pismo State Beach
Where: Boardwalk Trail
Time: 9:30 a.m.
Parking: Parking lot near the beach on W. Grand Avenue by Fin’s Bar & Grill (25 W Grand Ave, Grover Beach, CA 93433).
What to Expect: Join State Park Docent Becky for an easy stroll along the boardwalk trail to the state beach’s Monarch Butterfly Grove and then return by way of the beach. Along the way, we’ll discuss the area’s history, western monarch butterflies, Pismo clams, sand dollars and shorebirds as we identify some of the area’s plants and animals.
Length of hike: Easy 1-mile hike and about 2 hours.
Preparation: Dress in layers. Wear comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat. Other helpful items include binoculars, a camera, water, birding and/or plant books.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Special Instructions: Rain will cancel event.
Contact: [email protected] or call 805-474-2664.

Park: Point Sur State Historic Park
Where: Point Sur Lightstation Guided Tour
Time: 10:00 a.m. (arrive early, first come-first served, limited to 40 visitors)
Parking: Meet along west side of Highway 1 at the farm gate, 19 miles south of Rio Road in Carmel, ¼ mile north of the Point Sur Former Naval Facility.
What to expect: Volunteers lead a three-hour walking tour on a paved road of less than a mile distance, with a rise in elevation of 360 feet and two stairways, the longer having 61 steps. You will get to visit the historic Point Sur Lighthouse and historic park structures built in 1889. Masks required indoors for all visitors regardless of vaccination status.
Ages: Adults tour fee: $15 per person, Ages 6-17: $5 per person, Age 5 and under free.
Special instructions: Wear warm layers, comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for cold and windy weather. Tours may be cancelled during extreme weather. No pets, food, or trash allowed due to the historic park. No large motorhomes or campers, no strollers or wheels because of the steep and narrow roadway and stairs.
Contact information: More information can be found at www.pointsur.org

Park: Prairie City State Vehicular Recreation Area
Where: Yost Property
Time: 8:30 a.m.
Parking: Yost Property Lot
What to expect: Diversity on the Prairie! Uncover this SVRA’s surprising variety of wildlife, land use and recreation as we visit the park’s buffer zones and vernal pool management areas. Visitors can be on the lookout for coyote, jack rabbits, wild turkeys and many different birds of prey. A limited number of binoculars are available for use.
Length of hike: The hike is about two and a half miles roundtrip and lasts between one and a half and two hours.
Preparation: Hikers should dress in warm layers and appropriate footwear for both flat and uneven surfaces on wet terrain. Bring water and snacks.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Special instructions: The program is free with general admission to the park of $5 per vehicle; directions will be provided at the front entrance kiosk with posted signage along the route to the parking area. Light rain okay, heavy rain cancels.
Contact information: Call (916) 985-1093 or [email protected]

Park: Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Where: Prairie Creek Visitor Center & Newton B. Drury Parkway
Time: 11 a.m.
Parking: Newton B. Drury Parkway
What to expect: Enjoy a slow leisurely walk (less than 0.5 miles) on the paved parkway (ADA accessible) under the canopy of the tallest trees in the world, the coast redwoods. Bilingual (English/Spanish) program is available. Newton B. Drury Parkway is closed on the first Saturday of the month to motorized traffic.
Length of hike: Less than 0.5 miles
Ages: All ages. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preparation: Dress in layers and wear good hiking boots/shoes. Bring water and snacks.
Special instructions: Rain and/or heavy winds cancel.
Contact:[email protected]

Park: Saddleback Butte State Park
Where: Visitor Center
Times: 9, 10 and 11 a.m. (see below for more details)
Parking: Check-in for all hikes is at the park’s Visitor Center located at 17102 East Avenue J, Lancaster, CA (corner of 170th St E and East Avenue J, near Lake Los Angeles).
What to expect: Staff and volunteers will lead three hikes, which vary from an easy half-mile stroll to a strenuous five-mile hike up the butte. Check-in for all hikes is at the park Visitor Center. Bring a lunch to enjoy in the park’s picnic area after returning from the hikes!

• 9 a.m.: Hike to top of Saddleback Butte. The hike is moderately strenuous. The length is five miles and about three hours roundtrip; 1000 feet of elevation gain to an incredible view across the Mojave Desert.  Bring water and wear good hiking shoes and layered clothing; it can be very windy at the top.  
• 10 a.m.: Loop Hike across the park is an easy to moderate. The length is 3.3 miles with little elevation gain; almost 2 hours. Dress for the weather; bring water and hat, walking sticks are optional. Enjoy the beautiful high desert views over the Antelope Valley; this is a great winter’s hike.  
• 11 a.m.: Dowen Nature Trail is an easy hike. Guided interpretive tour along the nature trail. Learn about the unique natural and cultural history of the local area. The length is .5-mile loop with mild elevation gain and about 1 hour. The trail is wheelchair/stroller accessible.

Ages: All ages are welcome. Children need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Dogs are not allowed on trails (with the exception of trained service animals. No comfort animals).
Preparation: Dress in layers and wear good hiking boots/shoes. Bring water and snacks.
Special instructions: Rain cancels.
Contact: Jean Rhyne at [email protected] or follow us on www.Facebook.com/SaddlebackButte fore more information and updates.

Park: San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area
Where: Boat Launch Parking lot
Time: 1 p.m.
Parking: $10 day use fee.
What to expect: This easy hike will explore the area around the O’Neil forebay. Visitors can expect to walk along a path that follows the north west portion of the for