CNPS Santa Clara Valley Chapter Field Trips

Chapter field trips are free and open to the public.  Field trips are oriented to conservation, protection and enjoyment of California native plants and wildlife.  A list of past field trips and reports can be found here.

Many other upcoming chapter activities are listed in the Blazing Star. You can also find many of our chapter field trips and other activities on our Meetup Group.  Signing up on Meetup allows the trip leaders to send notifications in case of changes or cancellations.

In our region it is important to be prepared for hiking on rugged and steep terrain, wide temperature ranges and rapidly changing conditions at any time of year. Our hikes are often slow with many stops and standing around for long periods. All participants should wear sturdy footwear and carry sufficient water, sun protection, food, clothing layers, personal first aid and other supplies you may need. Also bring hand lens and binoculars for viewing plants and fauna.

Cell service is mainly restricted to cities and major highways. On your way to an outing do not rely solely on your phone. If you have any questions about your ability to participate in a particular field trip, please contact the trip leader in advance.

 

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SEPTEMBER 2023

Sun - Sept 24 9am -12noon - Bird and Plant ID Walk at Lake Cunningham Park (San Jose)

At the onset of Fall, join us for a beginner’s bird and plant identification walk through Lake Cunningham Park. This lake is a major destination for waterfowl and migratory birds and its native garden draws many birds due to its habitat value. On this walk, Vicki Silvas-Young will show you how to identify the common birds of our area, while Arvind Kumar will identify the native plants that they depend on for food and shelter.

The distance is 2 miles round-trip on a level path. Bring a hat, water, your bird and plant lists, and binoculars. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

RSVP is required to join us for the walk. Space is limited. No drop-ins please. To register, please visit the Meetup page at https://www.meetup.com/California-Native-Plant-Society-Santa-Clara-Valley-Chapter/

Driving directions and parking tips are provided on the Meetup page. We’ll meet at the Marina parking lot at 9am.

Cosponsored by CNPS, Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society and Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority.

 

NOVEMBER 2023

Sun Nov 5 - 10am –3pm - Berries for Birds: A Beginner’s Plant ID & Habitat Walk

Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve (Morgan Hill)

Fall is the time when seeds and fruit of many native plants ripen and mature. This coincides with the start of the wet season, maximizing the potential for germination and propagation of the species. The fruit and seed bonanza sustains a wide variety of wildlife, including many types of birds and mammals. Some fauna play a key role in the dispersal and improved germination of these plants.

Join Arvind Kumar and Ashok Jethanandani on this beginner’s plant ID and habitat walk to look for a variety of native berries and fruit such as oak acorns, bay laurel nuts, buckeye nuts, holly-leaved cherries and a wide range of berries: madrone, manzanita, toyon, poison oak, coffeeberry, honeysuckle, elderberry, redberry and snowberry. Beginners interested in plant identification are welcome; prior knowledge of native plants or botany is not required.

RSVP is required to join us for the walk. Space is limited. No drop-ins please. To register, please visit the Meetup page at https://www.meetup.com/California-Native-Plant-Society-Santa-Clara-Valley-Chapter/

Driving directions and parking tips are provided on the Meetup page. Meet in the Rancho Canada del Oro Open Space Preserve parking lot at 10 am. The address is 4289 Casa Loma Rd, Morgan Hill

 

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PAST FIELD TRIPS

AUGUST 2023

Sun - Aug 20 9:30am –1:30pm Bean Hollow State Beach (Pescadero)

Plant Community Walk: Coastal Bluff Scrub

Why do plants grow where they grow? In nature, plants grow in readily identifiable communities or associations united by location (soil, topography and microclimate). Join Arvind Kumar and Ashok Jethanandani as we explore the coastal bluff scrub plant community at Bean Hollow State Beach. Beginners interestedin plant identification are welcome; prior knowledge of native plants or botany is not required.

We will take the Arroyo de los Frijoles Trail that goes from Bean Hollow Beach to Pebble Beach, and back. We expect to see coffeeberry, sagebrush, coyote brush, angelica, buckwheat, gumplant, seaside daisy, yarrow and more. The distance covered will be 1.5 miles with 45’ of elevation gain.

Bring a hat, water, a bag lunch and your favorite trail accessories (camera/smartphone/hand lens/binoculars/field guide/none). Dress in layers and appropriately for possibly foggy/windy weather. There is no drinking water in the park, so please bring your own.

Directions: The park is located 3 miles south of the town of Pescadero off Hwy 1. Take Hwy. 92 west to Half Moon Bay, then turn left on Hwy. 1 and go south for 18 miles, 3 miles past the town of Pescadero. We will meet in the parking lot at 9:30 am. Carpooling is recommended.

 

JUNE 2023

Sun - June 25 9am - 12noon First Day of Summer Bird and Plant ID Walk at Lake Cunningham Park, San Jose

With the onset of Summer, join us for a beginner’s bird and plant identification walk through Lake Cunningham Park. This lake is a major destination for waterfowl and migratory birds and its native garden draws many birds due to its habitat value. On this walk, Vicki Silvas-Young will show you how to identify the common birds of our area, while Arvind Kumar will identify the native plants that they depend on for food and shelter.

The distance is 2 miles round-trip on a level path. Bring a hat, water, your bird and plant lists, and binoculars. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Directions: Meet at the Marina parking lot at 9am. The Marina parking lot is on the western shore of the lake, next to Raging Waters, at the opposite side of the park from the main entrance on White Road. Parking fee is $6. In Google Maps, search for “Lake Cunningham Marina” (37.3353176 -121.8120059) to be directed to the Marina. RSVP is required to join us for the walk. Space is limited. No drop-ins please. To register, please visit the Meetup page at https://www.meetup.com/California-Native-Plant-Society-Santa-Clara-Valley-Chapter/

Cosponsored by CNPS, Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society and Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority.

 

MAY 2023

Sun - May 7 10am-3pm Sierra Azul Open Space (San Jose)

Woods Trail Through a Gardener’s Eye: Locally Native Plants for Bay Area Gardens

With an Option for a Shorter Hike Ending at 12:30pm

California’s plant diversity is among the greatest in the world and many of our native plants are suitable for landscaping. It is easy to see why: locally native plants have evolved in local soils and microclimates and fit perfectly in Bay Area gardens.

Join Arvind Kumar, Ashok Jethanandani, Stephanie Morris and Vicki Silvas-Young on this walk along Woods Trail to learn about the native plants local to our area. Arvind and Ashok are home gardeners in San Jose with a special interest in local natives. Stephanie is a landscape architect and past Gardening with Natives Committee chair. Vicki leads many field trips for the Chapter, Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society and Open Space Authority.

This hike is particularly focused on native plants on the trail that work well in gardens (and are generally available at native plant nurseries). It is not a detailed plant taxonomy trip. Observing the microclimates, companions and mature sizes of locally native plants can be a fantastic way to learn more about native plant gardening.

This contour trail of the Sierra Azul range has gradual ascents/descents, and the north-facing aspect keeps it cool even on warm days. The plants are flourishing after this season’s extended rainfall, and many may still be blooming. Plan future additions to your garden armed with the knowledge of the many attractive shrubs, subshrubs, perennials, and annuals that grow naturally here.

The full-length walk is 5.6 miles (out and back), with 330 ft of elevation gain/loss. Dress in layers, appropriately for the weather. Bring a sack lunch and plenty of fluids.

For those wishing to take a shorter hike, we will also leave with the main group at 10am but we will turn back earlier and skip the lunch break, returning to the parking lot by about 12:30pm. The shorter trip is about 2.5 miles and is also perfect for families! Bring water and bring snacks if desired.

Directions: Take Hwy 85 to San Jose. Take the Camden Ave. exit and go south. In 1.8 mi, turn right on Hicks Rd. After 6.3 miles, turn right on Mt Umunhum Rd. The parking lot is immediately on the right. In Google maps drive to pin “Sierra Azul Parking Lot at Jacques Ridge.”

We will meet in the lot at 10am and plan to return by 3 pm. (If the lot is full, find parking on the opposite side of Hicks Rd. in Almaden Quicksilver Park’s Wood Road lot and walk back.)

RSVP is required to join us for the walk. Space is limited. No drop-ins please. To register, please visit the Meetup page at https://www.meetup.com/California-Native-Plant-Society-Santa-Clara-Valley-Chapter/

 

APRIL 2023

Fri - Sun April 7 - 9 Hite Cove Trail and Mariposa Overnight Field Trip (Mariposa County)

MEMBERS ONLY

Radhika Thekkath invites you to join her for three days at her family’s vacation log house and cabin in Mariposa to explore wildflowers on the 15-acre private property. The property is a 3 hour drive from the Bay Area and located at 2800 ft. elevation. Everyone will be accommodated using a combination of beds and tents based on a first come basis.

We will also take a moderate hike of 6.5-miles round-trip on the Hite Cove trail off Highway 140. https://www.yosemite.com/what-to-do/hite-cove/ It has been five years since the Ferguson fire came through here. Plant list from last year will be sent out to participants before the trip.

This trip is for CNPS members only (please ensure your membership is up to date or join). Space is limited. No drop-ins. To reserve your spot and for additional trip information, please contact Radhika at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Detailed trip information will be emailed to registered participants closer to the trip date.

 

Sat - April 29, 10:30am - 2pm Quail Hollow Ranch (Santa Cruz County)

The Santa Cruz Sandhills are a unique community of plants and animals found only on outcrops of Zayante sand soil in the central portion of Santa Cruz County. Join Joe Cernac and Jane Gomery for an easy tour of these Sandhills as presented in Quail Hollow Ranch County Park.

We will follow the Sunset Trail to Sunset Vista Point. Along the way we expect to see ponderosa pine and several manzanitas, including Arctostaphylos crustacea ssp. crinita, Arctostaphylos sensitiva and Arctostaphylos silvicola. We will also see many annual plants.

The round trip distance covered will be about 2.5 miles with a 5% grade in places. Elevation gain is only a few hundred feet. Parts of the trail are very sandy. Bring lunch and liquids.

To learn more about the Santa Cruz Sandhills visit www.santacruzsandhills.com/overview.html.

Directions: From San Jose, take Hwy. 17 south to the Scotts Valley exit and take Scotts Valley Rd. south to Mt. Hermon Rd. in Scotts Valley. Turn right and take Mt. Hermon Rd. until it dead-ends on Graham Hill Rd. Turn left on Graham Hill toward Santa Cruz. At the first light, which is E. Zayante Rd., turn left. Go approx. 2 mi. and make a left onto Quail Hollow Rd. Travel approximately ½ mi. The park entrance is on the right.

We will meet in the main parking lot at 10:30am. For maps and further directions, visit www.scparks.com/quail_hollow_directions.html

You can find the plant list on Calflora, which contains 550 entries: https://www.calflora.org/app/ipl?sva=5029&fmt=simple&wgs=srch::t!!fmt::photo!!inbp::t!!bgid::psd16945!!y::37.0879!!x::-122.06!!z::12!!lpom::d

RSVP is required to join us for the walk. Space is limited. No drop-ins please. To register, please visit the Meetup page at https://www.meetup.com/California-Native-Plant-Society-Santa-Clara-Valley-Chapter/

 

MARCH 2023

Sat March 4, 10-4 PM San Bruno Mountain State and County Park (Brisbane)

Join Ken and Dee Himes along the summit loop trail to see early flowering plants in the coastal scrub and coastal grassland plant communities. The hike will be about 4 miles in distance with an elevation change of about 800 feet. Dress warmly in layers as it can be very windy, and wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots. Hiking poles are recommended. Bring snacks and a sack lunch, and liquids for the day. Heavy rain cancels. For more information call Ken, 650–9 33–6319 or email Ken or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or email dee at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Directions: From Hwy. 101 northbound, take Old Bayshore/Brisbane exit and proceed north on Old Bayshore, past the town of Brisbane. Make a left turn onto Guadalupe Cyn. Pkwy., and follow it uphill (west) about a mile and a half to the park entrance. We will meet at 10AM inside the parking lot just beyond the entrance kiosk. There is a $6/day use parking fee. Bring exact change.

Link to map: https://goo.gl/maps/mxei2DG9ghM5Cqo58

Park Website: https://www.smcgov.org/parks/san-bruno-mountain-state-county-park

 

Mon - Fri March 13-17 Anza Borrego State Park Camping Trip (CNPS MEMBERS ONLY TRIP)

Join us for four nights of camping at Anza Borrego State Park. Patricia Evans and Joe Cernac will co-lead this event. We’ll meet on the first day on Monday. Hike/ botanize on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Friday will be a half day at the park or further north on our return. It is too early to predict if the rains will bring a great show, but we hope to see the usual suspects: rose sand verbenas, suncups, Ocotillo flowering red as well as Chuparosa and yellow Encelia.

The cost for camping will be between $45-55 per person for four nights, depending on the number of people. Plan on travel days ahead and behind the hiking days March 14-16. Anza Borrego is in San Diego county, ten hours away from the Bay Area. Because camping in the park is already “sold out”, you should reserve asap with Patricia Evans by calling 650-949-2801. If you email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., you are not guaranteed a spot until she calls you back, so please include a phone number.

 

Sun Mar 19, 9am - 12 noon First Day of Spring Bird and Plant ID Walk at Lake Cunningham Park, San Jose

With the onset of Spring, join us for a beginner’s bird and plant identification walk through Lake Cunningham Park. This lake is a major destination for waterfowl and migratory birds and its native garden draws many birds due to its habitat value. On this walk, Vicki Silvas-Young will show you how to identify the common birds of our area, while Arvind Kumar will identify the native plants that they depend on for food and shelter.

The distance is 4 miles round-trip on a level path. Bring a hat, water, your bird and plant lists, and binoculars. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Directions: Meet at the Marina parking lot at 9am. The Marina parking lot is on the western shore of the lake, next to Raging Waters, at the opposite side of the park from the main entrance on White Road. Parking fee is $6. In Google Maps, search for “Lake Cunningham Marina” (37.33426 -121.81016) to be directed to the Marina. 

RSVP is required to join us for the walk. Space is limited. No drop-ins please.

To register, please visit the Meetup page at https://www.meetup.com/California-Native-Plant-Society-Santa-Clara-Valley-Chapter/  

Cosponsored by CNPS, Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society and Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority.

 

Thu March 30, 9:30am - 2pm Red Hills - Tuolumne County

MEMBERS ONLY

Red Hills, is a foothill sierran serpentine region in Tuolumne County. About a two hour drive from the bay area. We will walk two sections observing what we hope will be an early peak blooming, at the shoulder season between winter and spring. Rare serpentine endemic Eriogonum tripodum,  Chlorogalum grandiflorum and Allium tuolumnense are present. Hopefully bitteroot will be in bloom.  Join Janet Hoffmann <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.> and Joe Cernac <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.> as we observe, heads bowed to the ground, this flora rich area. We will meet at the main parking lot at 9:30 am. There is a bathroom at the parking lot. Email the leaders for directions and any other questions. https://www.blm.gov/visit/red-hills-recreation-management-area

This trip is for CNPS members only (please ensure your membership is up to date or join). Space is limited. No drop ins. To reserve your spot and for additional trip information, please contact the trip leaders.

 

FEBRUARY 2023

Sat Feb 11 10am–1pm Dirca Walk at Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve, San Mateo County

Join Don Thomas for a 3- to 4- mile hike with 500+ in elevation change to search for the elusive the western leatherwood (Dirca occidentalis) at Pulgas Ridge OSP near Edgewood Road. Western leatherwood is a rare paleo-endemic plant native only to the San Francisco Bay Area, rated by CNPS as 1B.2. It is one of our earliest flowering native plants, blooming in mid-to-late winter before most other natives begin blooming in the spring. We will look for late-flowering dirca along the Dusky Woodrat Trail. We may be able to observe other early-blooming plants, such as manzanitas and gooseberries.

Space is limited. No drop-ins please. To complete the required RSVP, please visit our Chapter’s Meetup page at https://www.meetup.com/california-native-plant-society-santa-clara-valley-chapter/.

Driving directions and parking tips are provided on the Meetup page. Before signing up, please read about Pulgas Ridge OSP at  https://www.openspace.org/preserves/pulgas-ridge

We will meet at the parking area at the corner of Edmonds Road and Crestview Drive. To get to the parking lot from Edgewood Road, turn onto Crestview near the entrance to Edgewood Park and then take an immediate left turn onto Edmonds.

Contact Don at donethomasd[at]gmail.com for more information. Trails are narrow at most parts and may be slippery and steep in some. Wear hiking shoes and bring hiking poles. Bring water and snacks for an optional lunch in the picnic area following the walk. Heavy rain cancels.

 

Saturday, February 18, 9:30 am to 2 pm, Bryophyte Walk at Almaden Quicksilver Park

Limited space - please do not sign up if you are not sure that you will be able to attend. If your plans change, please be sure to update your RSVP.

Join John T. McLaughlin, SJSU Biological Sciences Graduate Student, and Ben Carter, botany professor, for a 2 mile walk to learn about bryophytes (mosses, liverworts and hornworts) of the Bay Area. This is an entry-level walk that will emphasize seeing different bryophyte species in nature and learning about their morphology, ecology and natural history.

There may be some moderate uphill climbs, but we’ll be moving very slowly. Bring a hand lens if you have one. Bring lunch, snacks and liquids. We’ll head out in any conditions except for heavy rain.

We will meet at the Mockingbird Hill Entrance: 19535 Mockingbird Hill Ln, San Jose, CA 95120. For more about the park, including a trail map, visit https://parks.sccgov.org/santa-clara-county-parks/almaden-quicksilver-county-park. Driving directions are at https://parks.sccgov.org/node/3011.

For general bryophytes questions or specific questions regarding the guided walk, contact John McLaughlin at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

RSVP is required to join us for the walk. Space is limited. No drop-ins please. To complete the required RSVP, please visit our Chapter’s Meetup page at https://www.meetup.com/california-native-plant-society-santa-clara-valley-chapter/.

 

Sun Feb 19 10am - 3 pm Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve

Plant Communities of the South Bay: A Plant Identification Walk for Beginners

 

Sat Feb 25 10am – 2:00pm Stile Ranch, San Jose 

Join Dee Himes and Stella Yang for a 2.5 to 3 mile early spring wildflower hike on Stile Ranch Trail - Fortnini Trail loop on the WESTSIDE of Santa Teresa County Park. Stile Ranch Trail goes through serpentinite grasslands and chaparral. This will be a great trip for those who are interested in plants and flowers that are endemic to the serpentinite soil profile and seeps. California has had some record rains this January and we expect to see in bloom shooting stars (Primula hendersonii), California buttercups (Ranunculus californicus), Lomatiums and Sanicles, and more. We will also see big berry manzanita (Arctostaphylos glauca), leather oak (Quercus durata) and black salvias (Salvia mellifera).

TRAIL CONDITIONS: The hike will be challenging in intensity due to heavy erosion exposing rocks on the trails making the trails very uneven and sometimes difficult to balance for some. The trails are steep uphill and downhill, muddy and slippery. It is highly recommended to bring hiking poles to help maneuver the trails. There’s no overhead shade until we get to the Fortini Trail.

Dress in layers, wear sturdy hiking boots, bring water, snacks, a bag lunch, a wide brim hat and hiking poles, etc. Limited to 15 people due to narrow trails.

Reservations are needed. To reserve your spot and get directions, please sign up on our chapter Meetup https://www.meetup.com/california-native-plant-society-santa-clara-valley-chapter/

If you have any questions, please contact Dee Himes directly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

DIRECTIONS:

We meet at 10am sharp under the oak tree located at the Junction of Stile Ranch Trail and Fortini Trail.

To get to the "Fortini Trailhead", from Hwy 85 take Almaden Expressway all the way to Harry Road and make a right. At the stop junction make a left turn onto McKean Road. Make a left turn at Fortini Road and then left turn on San Vicente Road which leads to the parking area, see link: https://goo.gl/maps/sNXS6hhWzPRqdZxn6

Arrive a bit early to get parking. It's a very popular trail. There are no bathroom facilities at Stile Ranch but there is a facility across the street on McKean Road at the Calero Park San Vicente Parking Area. You can also park here if you can't get parking at the trailhead and walk to the meeting location.

Please note, we are NOT at the main Santa Teresa County Park.

 

Sun Feb 26 13 10am - 4pm Montara Mountain San Pedro Valley Park (Pacifica)

Join co-leaders Ken and Dee Himes on an early spring outing to San Pedro Valley Park. We expect to see some early blooms: Montara manzanita (Arctostaphylos montaraensis), pink-flowering currant (Ribes sanguineum var. glutinosum), fetid adder's tongue (Scoliopus bigelovii), and possibly others.

The trip will be a moderate 4- to 5-mile loop hike on the Hazelnut Trail, through coastal scrub and chaparral plus some riparian woodland with an elevation gain and loss of about 600 feet and is expected to last until 4pm.

We’ll meet at 10am sharp in front of the park’s Visitor Center. Bring warm and wet weather layers for coastal conditions. Trails may be slippery - bring hiking poles. Bring water and a lunch or snacks, and fluids. Heavy rain cancels. For more information contact Dee Himes at dee4CNPS[at]gmail.com.

Space is limited. No drop-ins please. To complete the required RSVP, please visit our Chapter’s Meetup page.

Before registering for a spot, please go to SPVP Webpage to review park rules. There is a parking fee of $6 per vehicle.

The Park is located at 600 Oddstad Blvd. in Pacifica. Driving directions are provided on the Meetup page.

 

Sun Feb 26 13 10am - 3pm Plant Communities of the South Bay: A Plant Identification Walk for Beginners

JANUARY 2023

Sun Jan 1 10am-2pm New Year’s walk to Franklin Point, part of Año Nuevo State Preserve (Hwy 1 coast̶southern San Mateo County)

Join other CNPS members as we celebrate a Chapter tradition of welcoming the New Year with a walk to and BYO picnic at Franklin Point, which is part of the Año Nuevo State Preserve on the San Mateo County coast.

We will be exploring our surroundings as we casually walk towards Franklin Point, which is the most botanically interesting area of the park. We will be starting from the North Whitehouse Creek Trailhead which is located south of Pescadero on Highway 1, just north of the Santa Cruz County line. We’ll enjoy ocean views, California native plants and raptors, song birds and maybe marine mammals. Coastal prairie flora we expect to see includes silver bur ragweed (Ambrosia chamissonis), California goldenbush (Ericameria ericoides), coastal sagewort (Artemisia pycnocephala) and Argentina anserina (Potentilla anserina).

Expected dune flora includes yellow sand verbena (Abronia latifolia), pink sand verbena (Abronia umbellata), sea side heliotrope (Heliotropium curassavicum) and American dunegrass (Eleymus mollis). We also expect to see sea cliff bluff lettuce (Dudleya farinosa)and fleshy jaumea (Jaumea carnosa). As this is a day to have fun sharing nature at the beach with fellow Chapter members, the end time and depth of botanical or fauna discussion may depend on participants preferences.

Bring binoculars and layers of clothing for variable coastal conditions including wind, sun, precipitation and fog. We will be walking on sand dunes. Bring a lunch or snacks and fluids. Extreme bad weather cancels.

Space is limited so please reserve your spot by going to our Chapter’s Meetup page to sign up.

Driving directions and parking tips are provided on the Meetup page.

Before signing up, please read the Año Nuevo State Park restrictions at www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=523.

Note that there are no bathrooms at Franklin Point. Flush toilets are located at the main entrance of Año Nuevo State Park, which may require payment to enter. For more information, contact Dee Himes at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

 

DECEMBER 2022

Thu Dec 15 10am-1pm Carl W. Sharsmith Herbarium at San Jose State University (San Jose)

Please join us for a winter tour at the Department of Biological Sciences, Carl W. Sharsmith Herbarium at San Jose State University. The tour will be led by Lars Rosengreen, Greenhouse Manager and Curator; and Ben Carter, Director and Associate Professor. Founded in 1945 by Dr. Carl Sharsmith, the herbarium at San Jose State University houses a collection of more than 27,000 pressed plants(18,000 vascular plants and more than 9,000 bryophytes).

Many specimens were collected over Dr. Sharsmith’s long career as a university professor and natural history ranger atYosemite National Park.The herbarium is actively curated and a member of the Consortium of California Herbaria.Most of the specimens are California natives, with a focus on plants found in the Bay Area and the Sierra Nevada.

As part of the visit, you will have a chance to view notable specimens in the collection as well as view taxa that may be of special interest to attendees. You will also have a hands-on opportunity to learn how to mount and preserve specimens, and learn about the process of imaging them and adding them to the herbarium’s collection.

This is a CNPS members-only tour. Please be sure your CNPS membership is current.

Space is limited to 20, and RSVP is required to join us for the tour; no drop-ins please. To register or for more information, please email Dee Himes at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. A detailed email will be sent to you a few days before the tour.

 

Sat Dec 17 9am-Noon Beginner’s Bird and Plant ID Walk at Lake Cunningham Park (San Jose)

At the onset of winter, join us for a beginner’s bird and plant identification walk through Lake Cunningham Park. The lake is a major destination for waterfowl and migratory birds, and the park’s native garden draws many birds due to its habitat value.On this walk, Vicki Silvas-Young will show you how to identify the common birds of our area, while Arvind Kumar will identify the native plants that they depend on for food and shelter.

The distance is 4miles round-trip on a level path. Bring a hat, water, your bird and plant lists, and binoculars. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Space is limited so please reserve your spot by going to our Chapter’s Meetup page to sign up.

This walk is co-sponsored by CNPS, Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society and Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority.

Directions: Meet at the Marina parking lot at 9am. The Marina parking lot is on the western shore of the lake, next to Raging Waters, at the opposite side of the park from the main entrance on 2305 S. White Road. The parking fee is $6. In Google Maps, search for “Lake Cunningham Marina” (37.3353176-121.8120059) to be directed to the Marina.

 

NOVEMBER 2022

Sun Nov 20 10am-3pm Woody Plants of Castle Rock State Park (Skyline–Santa Cruz Mountains)

Join Ken and Dee Himes on this fall hike along Skyline Ridge. Several woody plant communities, including Broadleaf-Evergreen and Chaparral will be observed along this 3.5 to 4 mile moderately-paced walk with +/-350 feet in elevation change. We’ll look for late fall colors from black oak and big leaf maple trees, and we’ll see if we can find late season blooms of California fuchsia (Epilobium canum). We’ll also look for redwood penstemon (Keckiella corymbosa) if still in bloom.

Bring a lunch or snacks and fluids. Wear sturdy shoes and we recommend bringing hiking poles, as part of the path crosses over sandstone outcroppings.

Space is limited so please reserve your spot by going to our Chapter’s Meetup page to sign up.There is a $10 vehicle day-use fee, so please bring exact change in cash or use your CA State Park Pass.

Before you sign up, please read rules and regulations of the park, visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=538.

For the park brochure, visit, www.parks.ca.gov/pages/538/files/CastleRockSPFinalWebLayout082117.pdf.

 

OCTOBER - NONE

 

SEPTEMBER

Thu Sep 8, 7-9pm Field Trip Planning Meeting over Zoom

Field trip enthusiasts and leaders, please join us to help schedule our Chapter’s field trips for the remainder of the year, plus brainstorm ideas for 2023’s trips.

All are welcome to join in the discussion. For further information email Dee Himes at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Please RSVP in Meetup and the Zoom link will be emailed to you 2 days before the meeting.

 

Sat Sep 24, 9am-1pm Oaks of Edgewood (San Mateo County)

Join Paul Heiple and Ken Himes to learn about the five species of Quercus, the true oaks, that occur in EdgewoodCounty Park and Natural Preserve.

Our oak hike will be along a partial loop of about 4 miles on the Clarkia Trail, Serpentine Trail, Sylvan Trail, and Live Oak Trail to see the scrub oaks.

In addition, we’ll see at least two hybrid oaks. Hopefully, we will have a good crop of acorns to help with oak ID. We’ll also feature oak galls, which are another aid to identify oaks. Bring a hat, sunscreen, water and snacks. Wear sturdy footwear. Bring a hand lens or loupe if you have one.

We’ll meet at the Clarkia trailhead across the parking area on Cañada Road at 9am sharp. Careful when crossing road. Parking is across the street, see parking map.

This hike is open, no need to register but go to our meetup for further hike details and directions, here.

NO PETS OR DOGS PERMITTED IN EDGEWOOD PARK. 

This hike is also very slow paced looking at various plant life and enjoying nature.

For more information contact Paul Heiple at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (650)854-7125, or Ken Himes at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or(650)933-6319.

 

Sun Sep 25 9 am-Noon Beginner’s Bird and Plant ID Walk at Lake Cunningham Park (San Jose)

Join Arvind Kumar, Ashok Jethanandani, and Vicki Silvas-Young for this first of Fall beginner’s bird and plant identification walk through Lake Cunningham Park. The lake is a major destination for waterfowl and migratory birds park’s native garden draws many birds for its habitat value. On this walk, Vicki will show you how to identify the common birds of our area.Arvind and Ashok will discuss the native plants they depend on for food, shelter and nesting places. The distance is 4 miles round-trip on a level path.

Bring a hat, water, your bird and plant lists, and binoculars. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

RSVP at our Meetup is required to join us for the walk; no drop-ins please. Space is limited. You will receive an email in a few days before the trip regarding parking.

This walk is cosponsored by CNPS, Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society and Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority.

Directions: The park is located at 2305 S. White Road, San Jose.

Meet at the Marina building at 9am. The Marina is on the western shore of the lake, next to Raging Waters, at the opposite end of the park from the main entrance on White Road. In Google Maps, search for “Lake Cunningham Marina” to be directed to the Marina. Parking fee is $6

 

 

 

 

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JULY - AUGUST

NONE

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JUNE 2022

Thu-Sun Jun 16 - 19 Grouse Ridge Lake Basin Backpack (Nevada County) (CNPS MEMBERS ONLY TRIP)

Join Joe Cernac and Ken Himes on this backpacking trip to this lake basin area in the northern Sierra plateau just north of I-80 at State Hwy 20. Bounded on the west and far east by volcanics, the central area is glacial-scoured granite with abundant larger and smaller lakes. We hope this date will coincide with early Sierran blooming flora, with possible purple fawn lily (Erythronium purpurascens) at Grouse Ridge Lookout peak. We will have two full days of exploration, which means three nights camping. We’ll park our cars at a nearby trailhead then backpack less than 2 miles, with a 300-foot climb, to our campsite.

This trip is for CNPS members only (please ensure your membership is up to date or join). Space is limited and registration is required.

For more information and to sign up please contact trip leader Joe Cernac at (408) 499-2515 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Trip details will be sent to registered participants closer to the date.

 

Sun Jun 26 9am - 12noon Bird and Plant ID Walk at Lake Cunningham Park (San Jose)

At the onset of summer, join Arvind Kumar, Ashok Jethanandani, and Vicki Silvas-Young for a beginner’s bird and plant identification walk through Lake Cunningham Park. This park provides food, water and shelter for our local breeding birds and its native garden is utilized by these breeding birds due to its habitat value. On this walk, you will learn how to identify the common birds of our area, as well as the native plants they depend on for food and shelter.

The distance is 2 miles round-trip on a level path. Bring a hat, water, your bird and plant list, and binoculars. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Directions: The park is located at 2305 S. White Road, San Jose. Meet at the Marina building at 9am. The Marina is on the western shore of the lake, next to Raging Waters, at the opposite end of the park from the main entrance on White Road. In Google Maps, search for “Lake Cunningham Marina” to be directed to the Marina. Parking fee is $6.

RSVP is required to join us for the walk. Space is limited. No drop-ins please.

To register, please visit the walk’s Meetup page at www.meetup.com/California-Native-PlantSociety-Santa-Clara-Valley-Chapter/events/261044048/. Organized jointly by CNPS, Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society and Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority.

 

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MAY 2022

Fri - Mon, May 13 - 16 Eastern Sierra Nevada, Owens Valley (Inyo County) (CNPS MEMBERS ONLY)

THERE IS STILL SPACE TO REGISTER!

Join Joe Cernac and Ken Himes on our away trip to the east side of the Sierra Nevada and Owens Valley Desert. We hope to catch the wild flowers as we go up to higher elevations. Owens Valley starts at 3,000 feet in elevation so the spring starts late here. We will be car-camping throughout the trip, but local lodging can be found as well.

This trip is for CNPS members only (please ensure your membership is up to date or join). Space is limited. No drop-ins please.

For further trip information and email registration contact Joe Cernac at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Detailed trip information will be emailed to registered participants closer to the time.

 

Mon May 23 10am - 2pm: Search for the Tiburon Mariposa Lily and Tiburon Jewelflower (Marin County)

Join Ring Mountain Stewardship Coordinator Amanda Magallanes, Vivian Neou and Ramón Curiel to see the Tiburon mariposa lily (Calochortus tiburonensis) on Ring Mountain Preserve and the Tiburon jewelflower (Streptanthus glandulosus var. niger) at St. Hilary’s Preserve. Both species are rare and endangered, 1B.1 listed on the CNPS Rare Plant Inventory, here: www.cnps.org/rare-plants/cnps-inventory-of-rare-plants. 

The Ring Mountain hike will be about 2 miles round trip; the trail is steep and rocky in areas. We will caravan from Ring Mountain to Old St. Hilary’s Preserve to see the Tiburon jewelflower before heading home. It can be very windy and foggy, or hot and sunny, so dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking shoes. Bring hiking poles (recommended), sunscreen, hat, water, snacks and lunch. 

There’s more about the Ring Mountain Preserve, including a trail map, at Ring Mountain Preserve. For more information contact trip co-leader Vivian Neou at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

This trip is for CNPS members only (please ensure your membership is up to date or join). Space is limited and registration is required. To register, please visit our Eventbrite registration page at www.cnps-scv.org/field-trip-20220523. Hike details and driving directions will be provided to confirmed registrants. 

 

Wed May 25 10am - 2pm Bonny Doon Ecological Reserve (Santa Cruz County) (NO REGISTRATION NEEDED)

Join Joe Cernac in exploring Bonny Doon Ecological Reserve. This area is a unique ecological islet in the highlands of Santa Cruz Mountains, made possible by an abundance of erosion-resistant sandstone. This sandstone results in landscapes ranging from slopes with little soil, where beargrass makes its appearance, to deep loose sandy soils, where shrubs found in drier regions abound. Finally, at the area’s margins, redwoods and ferns make their presence.

Several species of manzanita will hold our interest. Bring lunch, snacks, and recommended 2+ liters of water. This hike is open to all comers, with no registration needed.

Directions: Parking is limited, so please carpool with others you know. The Preserve is located northeast of Davenport off Hwy 1. Exit Hwy 1 at Bonny Doon Rd. and head northeast. After 3.9 mi. turn right onto Martin Rd. (Bonny Doon Rd. becomes Pine Flat Rd. just before the intersection). In a mile the Preserve entrance will be on your left. Park near the fire station.

For more information contact Joe Cernac at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (408) 499 2515.

 

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APRIL 2022

Fri April 1  10am - 2pm Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park  (Gilroy)

Join Judy Fenerty and sweep Stella Yang for a moderately paced hike on the Mendoza, Mummy Mountain and Coyote Ridge trails in the Mendoza Ranch section of Coyote Lake-Harvey Bear Ranch County Park.

This 4-mile, 400+ foot elevation gain hike will take us through valley grasslands and up an oak-studded ridge line with spectacular views of the south Santa Clara Valley, Coyote Lake and Palassou Ridge.  This varied habitat supports a wide range of native plants including several stands of big-scale balsamroot, Balsamorhiza macrolepis var. macrolepis, a CNPS 1B.2 rare plant.  If there’s time and interest, we can add an optional foray to check out the serpentine area on the Calaveras Trail.

RSVP is required to join us for the walk.  Space is limited.  No drop-ins please.  To register, please visit the hike’s Meetup page.  Driving directions are provided on Meetup.

For more information contact Judy Fenerty at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

 

Mon - Wed  April 4 - 6  Hite Cove Trail and Mariposa Overnight Field Trip (Mariposa County)

Radhika Thekkath, our new Chapter president, invites you to join her for three days at her family’s vacation log house and cabin in Mariposa to explore wildflowers on the 15-acre private property.  The property is near a 3000-acre protected preserve as a conservation easement managed by the Sierra Foothill Conservancy.

We will also take a moderate hike of 6.5-miles round trip on the longer Hite Cove trail.  It has been four years since the Ferguson fire came through here.  Botanical leaders will include Ken Himes, Joe Cernac and Doug Krajnovich, Past-President of the Sierra Foothills Chapter of CNPS.

This trip is for CNPS members only (please ensure your membership is up to date or join).  Space is limited.  To reserve your spot and for additional trip information, please contact Radhika directly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  Detailed trip information will be emailed to registered participants closer to the trip date.

 

Sat Apr 16  9am - 12noon  Little Uvas Open Space Preserve  (Morgan Hill)

Join us at Little Uvas Open Space Preserve (LUOSP) for a couple of hours of botanical exploration in a preserve normally closed to the public.  Special access for this hike has been granted by the Open Space Authority.  Located in the Southern Santa Cruz Mountains, LUOSP consists primarily of serpentine hardwoods and grasslands.  It includes grey pine and oak woodlands among five small spring-fed ponds.  We expect to find chia (Salvia columbariae), broomrape (Aphyllon sp.), California poppy (Eschscholzia californica), serpentine leptosiphon (Leptosiphon ambiguus), owl’s clover (Castilleja sp.), Chinese houses (Collinsia heterophylla) and many more spring wildflowers.

Bring binoculars, hand lens, snacks, lunch, and water.  Wear sturdy boots and sun protection as we will be on open rocky fire roads of very gradual ascents in intermittent shade.

RSVP is required to join us for the walk.  Space is limited.  Restricted access, no drop-ins please.  To register, please visit our Chapter’s Meetup page.  Driving directions are provided on the Meetup page.

 

Tues Apr 19  9am - 1pm  Serpentine Chaparral & Grasslands at Edgewood Park  Walk #2  (San Mateo County)

Join Paul Heiple and Ken Himes on a mid-spring walk along the Clarkia Trail in Edgewood County Park and Preserve.  This will be the second chance to explore this trail.  To learn more, see the March 8 walk #1’s description above.  To register, please visit walk #2’s Meetup signup. Walk details and driving directions are provided on Meetup.

 

Wed Apr 27  9am - 4pm  McLaughlin Natural Reserve  (Napa and Lake Counties)

Join Reserve staff for a tour of the Donald and Sylvia McLaughlin Natural Reserve, a unit in the UC Natural Reserve System located near Lower Lake in Napa and Lake Counties.  The reserve protects about 7,000 acres of unusual habitats, including serpentine soils as well as riparian woodland, blue oak woodland and savannah, grassland, and chaparral.

Late April is prime wildflower season and there should be a variety of flowers to see and enjoy.  The iNaturalist list for the reserve includes 468 plant taxa.  We will explore different areas of the reserve on foot and by vehicle.  The visit will be led by reserve staff and will last most of the day.  The group will need to arrive punctually and leave all at the same time.

The McLaughlin Reserve is managed by UC Davis and is not generally open to the public.  It is located about a 3-hour drive from our CNPS SCV Chapter office in Palo Alto.

This trip is for CNPS members only (please ensure your membership is up to date or join).  Space is limited.  Restricted access, no drop-ins please.  To register and for more information please contact trip organizer Sue Kelso directly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  Detailed trip information will be emailed to registered participants closer to the trip date.

 

Fri - Mon  Apr 29 - May 1  Blue Oak Ranch Reserve  (Mt. Hamilton)

Join us at Blue Oak Ranch Reserve where we will explore the SCU Lightning Complex burn area and look for rare plants.  Blue Oak Ranch Reserve sprawls across the steep slopes of Mount Hamilton just east of urban San Jose.

Plant communities include blue oak woodland, valley oak woodland, black oak woodland, coast live oak woodland, riparian forest, chamise chaparral, Diablan sage scrub, nonnative annual grassland, wildflower field and native perennial grassland.  Blue and valley oak woodlands have become quite rare in California, and few are as protected from overgrazing and the encroachment of suburban development as those at Blue Oak Ranch.

We will explore the burn area and look for rare plants such as Santa Clara red ribbons, serpentine leptosiphon, and the fire follower Brewer’s calandrinia.  We will also make natural history observations in iNaturalist for the 2022 City Nature Challenge, so we’ll be on the hunt for insects, reptiles, and other cool creatures as well.

This trip is for CNPS members only (please ensure your membership is up to date or join).  Space is limited.  No drop-ins please.  RSVP is required to join us for the trip.  To register, please visit Eventbrite to get your ticket..  Detailed trip information will be emailed to registered participants closer to the trip date.

 

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