Winter Solstice Saunter

Let your inner Druid shine on a winter solstice nature hike up Mitchell Canyon. As we walk, we'll search for signs of the season, including mistletoe, beard lichen, Christmas berry, and those natural tree ornaments, “ oak apple galls” and “California pears”. Who knows, we might even crash a ladybug slumber party!

TOTAL DISTANCE

This is a moderate hike of 4-miles round trip with a slight elevation gain. You may opt for a 2-mile round trip hike.

LEADERS

Liz Watson and Ken Lavin

WEATHER POLICY

Rain cancels

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 sigh 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

NOTES

Bring snacks and water. Dress in layers and wear good hiking shoes. Bring poles if you normally use them. If you have any questions about this outing, email Ken Lavin at [email protected]

Photo: Becky Matsubara via Flickr

Liz Watson is a special education teacher for Contra Costa County. She currently teaches at Liberty High School in Brentwood. Liz holds a California naturalist certification from UC Davis extension.

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. He served both as president and longtime board member of the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association (MDIA).

Host or Publisher Greenbelt Alliance