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 soap root (amole) in bloom. Soap root 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!)

Climate change has made communities in this area increasingly vulnerable to wildfire. Learn about the importance of greenbelts in fire resilience here.

TOTAL DISTANCE

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

LEADERS

Liz Watson and Ken Lavin

WEATHER POLICY

Rain cancels

COST

$6 per vehicle park entrance fee ($5 for seniors). Exact cash or Yodel app required. Pay at the entrance gate.

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] .

Ken Lavin is outing coordinator for Greenbelt Alliiance

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 Davis extension and is a member of the Mount Diablo peregrine falcon team.

Host or Publisher Greenbelt Alliance