From the Blue Water Tower to Yosemite Creek—A Watershed Ramble

Explore the natural history of a McLaren Park watershed, discussing restoration, ecology, native plants and park history along the way.
About this Event

This walk will be a loop through McLaren Park's northern side, exploring the Yosemite Creek Watershed. We'll visit the blue water tower at the top of the hill and wind our way to Yosemite Marsh, with some additional sites incorporated as well. We'll learn about restoration, ecology, native plants and park history along the way.

Walk Leaders: Emil Fogarino, Tom Scharffenberger

Emil is a local naturalist and educator who retired from teaching marine biology and natural history at Washington High SF. As a native San Franciscan Emil enjoys sharing and learning about the natural beauty that surrounds us.

Tom is a landscape architect/conservation planner and is on the NTC Advisory Council. His interests include natural history, urban design and land use planning.

Details:

We will start and end at the Redwood Picnic Area along John F Shelley Drive. The route will be a combination of paved and dirt paths, with some uneven and steep terrain.

The exact route is still TBD but will be approximately 3 miles with a total elevation gain of 400 feet.

Preparation:

Wear comfortable shoes. Bring water and a light snack to eat along the way. We will take a leisurely pace, but be ready for some hill climbing.

This walk will be approximately 3 miles with a total elevation gain of 400 feet.

Meeting Location:

Meet near the restrooms at the Redwood Picnic Area at McLaren Park along John F Shelley Drive.

See map pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/suZRgr5dQMnMGxbh8

Transportation:

• Parking is abundant all along John F Shelley Drive near the picnic site
• The Muni 29, 44, 52, and 54 busses all drop off within a 10-15 minute walk from the meeting location

Weather:

Heavy rain will cancel. We will email participants the morning of walk if we cancel.

Cost:

Our nature walks are free and open to the public (with RSVPs requested). We kindly suggest a donation of $20 per person or whatever amount is right for you.

Donations can be made to Nature in the City on the day of the event in cash or online.

Special bonus! Everyone who donates $10 and above will receive a copy of the Nature in the City Map.