Summer Solstice Saunter

Our adventure begins with a walk to Coulter Pond, home to western toads and chorus frogs. After our amphibian serenade, we’ll hike up Mitchell Canyon and check out the park’s floral and faunal evening shift.

As we walk, we'll view soaproot (amole) in bloom. Soaproot flowers this time of year, but the blossoms don't open until late afternoon, so this is a rare chance to see them on display. What critter pollinates this unusual flower? Join us to see for yourself (Hint: It wears a yellow hat, yellow cape, and yellow belt!). Get our wildflower guide and join us!

TOTAL DISTANCE

This is an easy-to-moderate hike of about 3-1/2 miles round trip with a few hundred feet of elevation gain.

LEADERS

Liz Watson and Ken Lavin.

COST

There is a $6 per vehicle park entrance fee ( $5 for seniors). Exact cash required; pay at the entrance gate. You may also pay digitally by scanning the QR code on the sign near the entrance gate or Visitor Center, or text CA2902 to 53242. No app is required.

WHERE TO MEET

We’ll assemble at the Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center in Mount Diablo State Park.

NOTES

Bring liquids and snacks. Dress in layers and wear good hiking shoes. Bring poles if you normally use them. Restrooms and water are available near the trailhead. If you have questions about this outing, please email Ken Lavin at [email protected] .

photo: Ken Lavin

Liz Watson is a special education teacher for Contra Costa County. She teaches at Liberty High School in Brentwood. Liz holds a California naturalist certification from UC and is a member of the Mount Diablo Peregrine Falcon team.

Ken Lavin is the Outing Coordinator for Greenbelt Alliance and has been leading our free educational outings for over a decade. Ken worked as a national park ranger in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and as an instructor for Diablo Nature Adventures, teaching environmental science to school groups in Mount Diablo State Park.