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Old Baldy, Canada | photo by Cameron Schaus

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   Ventana Chapter Schedule of outings, meetings & other activities

Enter to win great prizes!
June 30 is the deadline for entries in Sierra Magazine's 2nd Annual Paddlesport contest. There are only a few weeks left to win a Bell canoe, a Necky kayak, or a paddling trip to beautiful Southwest Florida. Go here to enter: action.sierraclub.org/paddlecontest

Saturday, May 17
Hike: Garland Ranch
Garland has lots of wildflowers on the ridges above Garzas Creek to the east of the main entrance. 5 miles with 1300' elevation gain. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Hwy. 1 Mar Monte exit in La Selva to carpool. Call Nick for additional information. Leader: Nick Wyckoff, 462-3101.

Saturday, May 17
HIKE: PESCADERO CREEK
A 10-mile hike through a 6500-acre redwood-forested watershed along one of the major creeks in the Santa Cruz Mountains. We'll hike the Old Haul Road Trail, and sections of the Pomponio, Bear Ridge, Canyon and Tarwater Loop trails. Meet at the Santa Cruz County Government Center parking lot at 8:30 a.m. Bring water, lunch, and $5 carpool. Leader: Ed Gilbert, 685-8389.

Sunday, May 18
HIKE: PAT SPRING
This is a classic Ventana hike with fantastic views of the back country and the actual "window" that the area was named after. Strenuous 14-mile hike and 1700' elevation gain. Water at Pat Spring. Bring water, lunch and sturdy shoes. Meet at Save Mart in Carmel Valley at 8:30 a.m., or call for carpool information from Santa Cruz. Leader: Steve Legnard, 402-1422.

Monday, May 19
Hike: Pinnacles
Thousands of people come to see the beauty of the remnants of this 23 million-year-old volcano that has been moving at about 1/2" a year, 195 miles northwest of its origin because of the tectonic plates. People come to see the diversity such as the endangered condors, talus caves with big-eared bats, wildflowers, and much more. Hiking the crags, spires, massive monoliths and ramparts by moonlight leaves you with a feeling of being on another planet. For info you must call a week in advance or I will not be able to return your call. Leader: Esperanza Hernandez, 678-1968.

Tuesday, May 20
SENIOR WALK: SOBERANES/GARAPATA
Scenic 3-mile walk with lunch on the cliffs. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. To go direct, Soberanes is on Hwy. 17, 0.3 miles south of Rio Road in Carmel. Look for a barn on the left side of road and grove of cypress trees on ocean side. Park along the road on ocean side. Primitive restroom available. Bring lunch, a sit upon, water, $6 carpool. Leader: Brooke Ewoldsen 475-6188.

Tuesday, May 20
Hike: Garzas Creek
This is my favorite hike with its meadow & hillsides of wildflowers, forests with woodrat nests, dark redwood canyon, and Garzas creek with 6 crossings & young steelhead trout. 4-1/2 mile loop with 800' elevation gain. Moderate pace with stops to enjoy flora & fauna. Meet at the Black Bear Diner Park & Ride by 10:00 a.m. or at the trailhead by 10:20 a.m. Bring water & lunch. Call for reservation. Leader: Lynn Bomberger, 375-7777.

Saturday, May 24
Wildflower Walk: Point Lobos Ranch
This easy 3-mile walk will give us a sneak peek of a future state park. There should be an amazing selection of wildflowers including hillsides covered with towering foxglove. Meet at the Black Bear Diner Park & Ride by 10:00 a.m. Bring water. Call for a reservation. Leader: Lynn Bomberger, 375-7777.

Sunday, May 25
Hike: East Garland Loop
Lately, we have neglected the beautiful East Garland region in upper Carmel Valley. 8-mile loop with 1800' elevation gain. We'll start from Garzas Road, up the canyon, Veeder, East Ridge and Saddle Trails to the highest point, Vasques Knob, 2000', with great views all around. After lunch, down Vasques, Spring, Gabilan and River Trails to our cars. I hope there still will be many wildflowers, at least in shady areas. Bring water and lunch, two hiking poles for the steep parts suggested. Wear sun hat and sun protection. Meet at Save Mart in Carmel at 8:00 a.m. (no leader) or in Mid Valley Shopping Center near Washington Mutual at 8:15 a.m. to carpool. Call to make sure the hike is on. Leader: Anneliese Suter, 624-1467.

Tuesday, May 27
SENIOR WALK/PICNIC: HENRY COWELL
Our loop hike is along the river and through the redwoods. Easy 3 mile with slight uphill. Following hike is our annual potluck picnic. BRING YOUR FAVORITE DISH. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or at Felton Faire by Safeway at 9:50 a.m. To go direct, use main entrance to Cowell on Hwy. 9, turn past the pay station to the first picnic area on the right. Bring water, potluck dish, $2 carpool and share of entrance fee. Leader: Helena Cantin 438-4253.

Tuesday, May 27
Hike: Julia Pfeiffer Burns/Ewoldsen
This gorgeous 4-1/2 mile lollipop loop with 1600' elevation gain follows McWay Creek through dense coastal redwood forest to a panoramic overlook of the Big Sur coastline. We hope to see red clintonias & condors. Bring water & lunch. Meet at the Black Bear Diner Park & Ride by 9:00 a.m. Call for a reservation. Leader: Lynn Bomberger, 375-7777.

Thursday, May 29
Chapter Executive Committee meeting
The Chapter Executive Committee meets at 7:30 pm. Call Chair Rita Dalessio at 659-7046 for meeting place.

Saturday, May 31
Hike: Sunol Regional Wilderness
I do this walk for its Mariposa lilies. Some won't like the 8 miles of steep elevation gain up and over sun-kissed ridges in what is usually 80-90 degree temperatures. If you can't take the heat, this kitchen is not for you. It also is a rather long carpool to this East Bay preserve. Bring enough water, sunscreen and meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Santa Cruz County Government Center to carpool. Call Nick for additional information. Leader: Nick Wyckoff, 462-3101.

Saturday, May 31
HIKE: BIG BASIN
A 13-mile loop hike with 1330' elevation change, starting from the Park HQ area at 1000'. We'll hike the Howard King Trail, up to the overlook on Mt. McAbee at 1730' and down to the viewing platform at beautiful 70'-Berry Creek Falls at 400'. We will then hike up the Berry Creek Trail, past Silver, Cascade, and Gold Crest Falls, to the Sunset Trail for our return to the park HQ. Meet at the Santa Cruz County Government Center parking lot at 8:00 a.m. or at Felton Faire at 8:20 a.m. Bring water, lunch, share of park entrance fee and $5 carpool. Leader: Ed Gilbert, 685-8389.

Sunday, June 1
Hike: Vicente Flat
I saw 50 kinds of flowers on this hike last June 1 and am sure this year won't disappoint us. Great coastal views and different terrain make this hike especially interesting. Expect brush with poison oak. Wear long clothing, and bring plenty of water and a good lunch. 10 miles and 2000' elevation gain. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Black Bear Park & Ride or Sears 41st Ave at 7:35 a.m. in Santa Cruz. Call for carpool help. Leader: John Howerton, 476-4253.

Tuesday, June 3
Hike: Point Lobos
Our 6-mile grand loop with minimal elevation gain takes us along tree-clad headland trails with magnificent views. We hope to see nesting great blue herons and late wildflowers. Bring water & lunch. Meet at the Black Bear Diner Park & Ride by 9:30 a.m. Call for a reservation. Leader: Lynn Bomberger, 375-7777.

Friday - Sunday, June 6-8
Outings Leader Training
Learn about trip planning and outings leadership at the ClubÕs own Clair Tappaan Lodge in the beautiful Tahoe area. $45 cost includes meals and bunk. Register online at www.sierraclub.org/outings/training/brochures/2008_california.asp.

Friday, June 6
Hike: Tanbark to Tin House
The Tanbark Trail packs a lot of scenery in a fairly short length. From its start off Hwy. 1 south of Big Sur, it winds up the south side of Partington Canyon past a rushing creek and through a redwood grove, up through forests of tanbark oak, until it reaches the site of the ruined Tin House. Here we'll have lunch and enjoy the ocean views before returning via an old dirt road. Car shuttle to save walking the last mile on Hwy. 1. 6 miles and 2000' elevation gain. Leisurely pace. Meet at the Black Bear Diner Park and Ride at 9.30 a.m. to carpool. Leaders: Cath Farrant and Mary Dainton, 372 7427.

Saturday, June 7
Hike: East Garland to Kahn Ranch
Exploratory, strenuous 10-mile hike with 2,000' elevation gain starting from the Little League ball fields in Carmel Valley Village. We'll go up on Laureles, Vasques and Cougar Ridge Trails into the Kahn Ranch for the Hitchcock loop. Suggest wearing light long pants and a long sleeves and bringing 2 hiking poles. I don't know how the trails will be. As always, enough water and lunch, sun hat and sun protection. Meet at Save Mart at 8:00 a.m. (no leader) or in Mid Valley shopping center near Washington Mutual at 8:15 a.m. to carpool. Call to make sure the hike is on. Leader: Anneliese Suter, 624-1467.

Sunday, June 8
Hike: Mal Paso to Rocky Ridge
We'll meander up a wildflower-studded private road above Mal Paso Canyon, eventually crossing the Creek, and then up a steep ridgeback, and finally through some redwood groves to the Rocky Ridge Trail. We'll end our circuit near Soberanes Creek. A beautiful, rugged, 5 miles with 900' of elevation gain. Bring lunch, water, and wear sturdy hiking boots. Call for reservation, time & place. Leader: Larry Parrish, 622-7455.

Tuesday, June 10
SENIOR HIKE: COSTANOA
4-mile hike on trails above Costanoa Resort. We will reverse our usual beginning spot. Lots of gradual uphill with spectacular views. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or at 9:50 a.m. at Shen's Gallery at Mission & King. To go direct, park in rear of parking lot at General Store. Hiking boots and tick repellent recommended. Bring lunch, water, $5 carpool. General Store no longer has a good deli. Leader: Pat Herzog 458-9841.

Tuesday, June 10
Hike: Mitteldorf Preserve
On this 7-mile loop with 2000' elevation gain we hope to find the rare 'Golden Ear Drops.' Moderate pace into a redwood forest along a lovely creek up to vistas overlooking the rugged Garrapata and Big Sur coastlines. Meet at the Black Bear Diner Park & Ride by 9:30 a.m. Bring water & lunch. Call for a reservation. Leader: Lynn Bomberger, 375-7777.

Wednesday, June 11
Santa Cruz County Group Executive Committee meeting
The Santa Cruz County Group Executive Committee meets at 7:00 pm at the Group's office, 1001 Center St. Call 426-4453 if you need directions.

Friday, June 13
Potluck & Slide Show: Ireland
The slide show is presented by Chris and Joe from a trip to Ireland last year. The potluck begins at 6:30 p.m. Bring food to share and your own washable plate, cup, utensils, cloth napkin, and serving utensils. We love home-cooked food, but store-bought items (minimum value $5) make great contributions too. For directions call Chris at 429-8389.

Saturday, June 14
HIKE: SARATOGA GAP & LONG RIDGE
A 10-mile double-loop hike starting from the parking lot at the intersection of Hwy. 9 and Skyline Blvd. We'll hike along the Saratoga Gap Trail into Upper Stevens Creek County Park. There we'll look for the Ohlone Grinding Stone before crossing Skyline Boulevard into Long Ridge along the Hickory Oak Trail with its magnificent vistas over the mountains to the ocean. Then, we hike north to the 3.6-mile Peters Creek and Long Ridge Trails Loop. Along the Peters Creek Trail, we'll pass a beautiful lily pad pond bordering the private Jikoji Zen Buddhist retreat. Western pond turtles and wild turkeys are often seen along this loop. We'll hike back to the Hickory Oak Trail to the Achistaca Trail and the Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail to our cars. Meet at the Santa Cruz County Government Center at 9:00 a.m. or at Felton Faire at 9:20 a.m. Bring water, lunch and $6 carpool. Leader: Ed Gilbert, 685-8389.

Saturday, June 14
Hike: Mt. Madonna County Park
We'll do a different loop than the last time from the Sprig Lake entrance off Hwy. 152. 7 miles and 1300' elevation gain. Included will be an interesting trail which is new to me. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Mar Monte exit off Hwy. 1 in La Selva Beach to carpool. Call Nick for additional information. Leader: Nick Wyckoff, 462-3101.

Saturday, June 14
Walk: Soberanes Canyon
On our 5-mile walk with 600' elevation gain, we'll explore the wildflower diversity of Soberanes Point coastal shrub flowers and then the riparian and redwood forest plants of Soberanes canyon. Wildflower enthusiast Bob Hale will be along to discuss the various plant communities and flowers. Meet at the Black Bear Diner Park & Ride by 9:30 a.m. Bring water & lunch. Call for a reservation. Leader: Lynn Bomberger, 375-7777.

Tuesday, June 17
SENIOR HIKE: LOCH LOMOND
We'll start at Glen Corrie picnic area which is the first parking lot on the right after entrance, then walk down to the launch ramp area, walk along the lakeside to a picnic area, and return after lunch. Some steep hills. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or at Felton Faire by Safeway at 9:50 a.m. Bring water, lunch, $5 carpool and share of entrance fee. Leader: Joan Brohmer 462-3803.

Tuesday, June 17
Hike: Garzas Creek
See Tuesday, May 20, for details.

Saturday, June 21
Hike: Pine Valley
This hike starts on Tassajara Rd. and drops down to beautiful Pine Valley. 11 miles with 1200' elevation gain. There is water at Pine Valley and an old cabin occupied by an interesting character named Jack English. This hike has the downhill in the morning and the uphill in the afternoon. Bring water and lunch, and wear sturdy shoes. Meet at Save Mart at 8:30 a.m. Leader: Steve Legnard, 402-1422.

Sunday, June 22
Hike: Pogonip
We'll meet at 10:00 a.m. at the Santa Cruz County Government Center for this 6-mile hike. Bring lunch and water. We'll see the haunted meadow, sacred oak, kilns, and other thrilling sights. Leaders: Sheila Dunniway, 336-2325 and Andy Burgess, 335-4779.

Sunday, June 22
Walk: Asilomar to Pebble Beach
A 4-mile loop, mainly on flat terrain at an easy pace, starting on neighborhood streets and then through dunes, out to Point Joe and back along the beach boardwalk. Beach wildflowers, possible wildlife. Meet across from the Fishwife Restaurant on Sunset Dr. and Asilomar Blvd., Pacific Grove at 9:00 a.m. Back about noon, bring snack and water. Leader: Martha Saylor, 372-9215.

Tuesday, June 24
SENIOR HIKE: NEW COWELL HIKE
About 3-mile loop with only one steep hill. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. To go direct, park across the street from Graham Hill Plaza (horsegrounds across the street). No restrooms. Bring water, lunch, $2 carpool. Leader: Brooke Ewoldsen, 475-6188.

Tuesday, June 24
Hike: Point Lobos
See Tuesday, June 3 for details. We hope to see nesting black crowned night herons, western gulls, and cormorants.

Thursday, June 26
Chapter Executive Committee meeting
The Chapter Executive Committee meets at 7:30 pm. Call Chair Rita Dalessio at 659-7046 for meeting place.

Friday, June 27
Hike: West Molera
Meet at the Black Bear Diner Park and Ride at 9.30 a.m. for this 8-mile hike with 1200' elevation gain. We'll hike up Hidden Trail and Ridge Trail, enjoying views of Pico Blanco and Post Summit. After lunch weÕll descend via the Panorama and Bluff Trails with views of the ocean and Point Sur. Bring lunch, water, and a sweater or windbreaker as the ocean breeze can be cold even at this time of year. Leaders: Cath Farrant and Mary Dainton, 372-7427.

Saturday, June 28
HIKE: NISENE MARKS
An 8-mile loop hike beginning on the Porter trail, ascending the Loma Prieta Grade trail past Hoffman's Camp, down the Big Stump Gap escalator, and out through beautiful Bridge Creek canyon, with a rugged one-mile in and out side-trip through the ravine to 45' Maple Falls. 600' elevation gain. Many unbridged creek crossings on rocks. Meet at Sears 41st Ave. at 9:30 a.m. or at the parking lot behind Aptos Station at 9:45 a.m. Bring water, lunch, and $2 carpool. Leader: Ed Gilbert, 685-8389.

Saturday, June 28
Hike: Garzas Creek
See Tuesday, May 20 for details.

Sunday, June 29
Hike: Henry Cowell / Wilder Ranch
A long meandering hike from the giant redwoods to the oak chaparral. We'll hike from the cool shade of Henry Cowell across the San Lorenzo River, through UCSC to great coastal views on our way toward Hwy. 1. We'll see what is left of the wildflowers. 12 miles, 1000' elevation gain. Bring water and lunch. Meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Black Bear Park and Ride (no leader) or call for car shuttle from Santa Cruz. Leader: John Howerton, 476-4253.

Sunday, June 29
Walk: Limekiln Creek
This hike involves a long but spectacular drive for a short but gorgeous walk. Way south of Big Sur, this park (On Gov. Arnie's closure list, so go NOW!) features strolls along both Hare Creek and Limekiln Creek under huge redwoods. We'll visit a beautiful waterfall, lunch near the old kilns, and gaze up from the beach at Cone Peak before heading back to civilization. Bring lunch, water, park entrance $. Plan on a long day. Meet at the Black Bear Diner Park and Ride at 9:00 a.m. Leader: Mary Gale, 626-3565.

Tuesday, July 1
Hike: Mitteldorf Preserve
See Tuesday, June 10th for details.

Saturday, July 5
Hike: Big Basin
The trailhead for this walk is above headquarters on Hwy. 236. We'll do a loop including Trail Splendid (old name, no longer on maps), Meteor Trail, Middle Ridge Fire Rd, Hollow Tree Trail. 1500' elevation gain and 9 miles. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Santa Cruz County Government Center to carpool. Call Nick for additional information. Leader: Nick Wyckoff, 462-3101.

Saturday, July 5
Swim/Hike: Arroyo Seco
This outing has been called an amphibious hike. We start at the Arroyo Seco parking lot and hike about 3 miles to get into the water. We'll wade and walk upstream through several small waterfalls, then have to swim through deep ponds and the narrow gorge to reach the big waterfall. When we are lucky, we'll climb it and enjoy lunch further up in the sun. Only real good swimmers and energetic hikers are encouraged. Kids over 12 years old with parents are welcome. Put your food in double plastic zip lock bags in an old rucksack. Wear tennis shoes or water sandals with toe protection and a bathing suit underneath your hiking outfit. A rubber mattress or a floating device is nice to float downstream. Bring water, lunch, sunblock, a hat, and wear a white shirt in the water. Bring $ for carpool. Reserve the whole day. Call for appointment and time. Leader: Anneliese Suter, 624-1467.

Sunday, July 6
HIKE: Palo Corona Ranch
We'll hike up and down ranch roads and arrive, via one route or another, at the Corona Cabin for lunch. If we're lucky, we may still witness wondrous wildflower displays and breathtaking views along the splendid Santa Lucia foothillsÑthe crown jewel of the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District. Be prepared for 10-12 miles and 2000' elevation gain. Call for reservation and other information. Leader: Larry Parrish, 622-7455.

Tuesday, July 8
SENIOR HIKE: FALL CREEK
Shady 3-mile hike in redwood forest partly along the creek. Some moderate uphill; rocky in places. Lunch at limestone kilns. After lunch we'll do another mile or so. No restrooms. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or at Felton Faire near Safeway before 9:50 a.m. To go direct, park in Empire Grade lot up from Hwy. 9. Bring water, lunch, tick repellent, and $3 carpool. Leader: Beverly Meschi, 475-4185.

Tuesday, July 8
Hike: Mitteldorf Preserve
Our lollipop loop of 6 miles with little elevation gain winds along Williams Creek through a serene redwood forest. We will see a nice variety of ferns and flowers including spectacular tiger lilies. Meet at the Black Bear Diner Park & Ride by 9:30 a.m. Bring water and lunch. Call for a reservation. Leader: Lynn Bomberger, 375-7777.

Wednesday, July 9
Santa Cruz County Group Executive Committee meeting
The Santa Cruz County Group Executive Committee meets at 7:00 pm at the Group's office, 1001 Center St. Call 426-4453 if you need directions.

Friday, July 11
Potluck & Slide Show: Baja California
Sheila Dunniway will share slides taken by her and others in her group from their recent trip to Baja California. The potluck begins at 6:30 p.m. Bring food to share and your own washable plate, cup, utensils, cloth napkin, and serving utensils. We love home-cooked meals or dessert, but store-bought items (minimum value $5) make great contributions too. For directions call Sheila, 336-2325.

Saturday, July 12
HIKE: HENRY COWELL
A 9-1/2 mile loop hike beginning and ending at the park entrance along Graham Hill Road, just past the horseshow grounds at 800' elevation. This hike follows many different trails. Up and down elevation gain of 600'. Enjoy a panoramic forest view from an observation tower, the Cathedral Grove, and the Redwood Grove Loop-Trail with its over 17'-diameter tree that stands more than 300' tall. Lunch at Roaring Camp railroad village. Meet at the Santa Cruz County Government Center at 9:30 a.m. or at the Graham Hill Road entrance at 9:50 a.m. Bring water, lunch and $2 carpool. Leader: Ed Gilbert, 685-8389.

Sunday, July 13
Hike: Fall Creek
Join me as we explore this enchanted forest with redwoods, a lovely burbling stream full of cascades, a lime kiln, barrel mill, fish pond, and dancing springs. About 7 miles. Bring water and lunch. Meet at Felton Faire at 10:00 a.m. to carpool to the trailhead. Leader: Sheila Dunniway, 336-2325.

Tuesday, July 15
SENIOR HIKE: NISENE MARKS
Shady 3-mile hike beginning at Marcel's Trail, cross the creek and view twisted tree & hidden garden. Some moderate ups and downs. Lunch at George's picnic area. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. To go direct, park at kiosk near park entrance. Primitive restroom. Bring lunch, water, tick repellent, $1 carpool, and share of entrance fee. Leader: Joan Brohmer, 462-3803.

Saturday, July 19
Walk: Point Lobos
We'll start this 4-mile hike around beautiful Point Lobos at the Highway, to Whaler's Cove, then on to the top of Whaler's Knoll and back via southern trails. There will still be wildflowers in shady spots and some wildlife to watch. Meet at Save Mart at 9:00 a.m. for a short carpool. Bring snack, water, and optional binoculars for close-ups of animal life. Leader: Martha Saylor, 372-9215.

Saturday, July 19
Hike: Terrace Creek
Hike the Pine Ridge Tr. approximately 5 miles and then up beautiful, shady Terrace Creek. Lunch at the top and then down to the Ventana Inn. This 10-mile 2000' elevation gain strenuous hike in Big Sur has views up and down the coast. Meet at Save Mart at 9:00 a.m. Bring water and a big lunch, wear sturdy shoes, optional hiking poles. Leader: Steve Legnard, 402-1422.

Sunday, July 20
Hike: San Francisco
Let's celebrate the 40th anniversary of the summer of love with a hike through Golden Gate Park. We'll start at the Panhandle on the east end of the park and see what we can find. Possible stops at the De Young museum observation floor, the arboretum, any wild party we can find, Sutro Baths, or maybe the Palace of the Legion of Honor. Don't forget your tie dyes and bell bottoms for this very hip and groovy event. 10 miles, no hills. Call for meeting place and time. Leader: John Howerton, 476-4253.

Tuesday, July 22
SENIOR HIKE: ROARING CAMP/COWELL
We'll walk from the railroad cars thru Roaring Camp to trails and climb to top of Bear Mountain for lunch. Finish at Cowell visitor's center. Restroom available. Moderate 3 miles with gradual uphill. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. To go direct, take Graham Hill Rd. to Roaring Camp. Drive past Roaring Camp entrance to Roaring Camp Dr. on your right to park. Bring water, lunch, $3 carpool. Leader: Helena Cantin, 438-4253.

Tuesday, July 22
Hike: Mitteldorf Preserve
See Tuesday, July 8th for details.

Saturday, July 26
HIKE: BYRNE FOREST
For a new adventure, we'll explore, over a 700' elevation change, the many roads and trails of this 322-acre mixed redwood forest, located off of Brown Valley Road, above the village of Corralitos. 5-6 miles. The Byrne Forest has been under the protection of the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County since 1984, and we are privileged to be allowed restricted access for this hike. Along the trail, we'll experience vistas of the Pajaro Valley from the western ridge of the forest, and we'll look for the "Eagle in the Tree" at the 1500' apex of our hike. Meet at Sears 41st Ave. at 9:30 a.m. or at the intersection of Hames Road and Corralitos Road in Corralitos at 9:50 a.m. Bring water, lunch, and $3 carpool. Leader: Ed Gilbert, 685-8389.

Sunday, July 27
Walk: Soberanes Creek and Coast
Shall we mosey around the bluff or saunter up the creek? Let's let the weather and our whim direct our footsteps. Either way, Soberanes Point and Creek are gorgeous in all conditions, and we'll enjoy an easy pace with little elevation change. Wear layers, carry water, lunch; bring binoculars in case of fauna to observe. Expect to be back in town by about 2:00 p.m. Meet at 10:00 a.m. at the Black Bear Diner Park and Ride. Leader: Mary Gale, 626-3565.

Tuesday, July 29
SENIOR WALK: WILDER BLUFFS
We'll walk the bluffs from the parking lot to 4 mile beach. Easy, flat trail with great ocean views. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or at Shen's Gallery at Mission & King at 9:50 a.m. Restrooms. Bring lunch, water, $3 carpool and share of entrance fee. Leaders: Pat Herzog, 458-9841 and Janet Schwind, 425-3845.

Tuesday, July 29
Hike: Garzas Creek
See Tuesday, May 20th for details.

Thursday, July 31
Chapter Executive Committee meeting
The Chapter Executive Committee meets at 7:30 pm. Call Chair Rita Dalessio at 659-7046 for meeting place.

Saturday, August 2
Hike: Pine Valley
Let's get away from the coastal fog and into the heart of the Ventana Wilderness. This long and rather strenuous hike starts at China Camp, leads up and very much down to Church Creek Divide. From there mildly up and down to the beautiful Pine Valley for a long lunch break. Unfortunately, the hard upward part comes on the way home, about 1000' up from the Divide to the high points with beautiful views of the Big Sur mountains and back to China Camp. Bring water and lunch, wear good shoes, light long pants and long sleeves (possible Poison Oak), hat and sun protection. Meet at Mid Valley in Carmel, near Washington Mutual Bank at 7:30 a.m. for a long car shuttle. Call me for reservation. Leader: Anneliese Suter, 624-1467.

Sunday, August 3
Hike: Mitteldorf to Palo Corona
We'll traverse up the well-maintained redwood-lined trails of the Mitteldorf Preserve, ascending to 2972'-high Palo Corona Peak. After lunch, we'll complete our 8-mile loop with some fabulous views of the coastal foothills along Echo Ridge. Expect 2000' elevation gain. Dress for a possible cool morning and a warm afternoon. Space is limited for this hike, so make your reservation early. Call for meeting time & place. Leader: Larry Parrish, 622-7455.

Tuesday, August 5
Hike: Glen Deven Ranch
Our 7-mile hike with 800' elevation gain takes us into a lovely canyon and along redwood-lined Garrapata Creek. After lunch, we'll explore the ranch house, a writer's studio, and then out onto a ridge for spectacular views. Moderate pace with stops to enjoy flora & fauna. Meet at the Black Bear Diner Park & Ride in Carmel by 9:30 a.m. Bring water & lunch. Call for a reservation. Leader: Lynn Bomberger, 375-7777.

Friday, August 8
Potluck & Slide Show: Indochina
Vilma Siebers will delight us with slides from her travels through Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. The potluck begins at 6:30 p.m. Bring food to share and your own washable plate, cup, utensils, and serving utensils. We love home cooked meals or dessert, but store-bought food (minimum value $5) make great contributions too. For directions call Sheila, 336-2325.

Sunday - Monday, August 10-11
Lobby Day
Come to Sacramento and work with other Sierra Club members to lobby legislators on our priority bills this session. See article, page 7.

Wednesday, August 13
Santa Cruz County Group Executive Committee meeting
The Santa Cruz County Group Executive Committee meets at 7:00 pm at the Group's office, 1001 Center St. Call 426-4453 if you need directions.

Thursday, August 28
Chapter Executive Committee meeting
The Chapter Executive Committee meets at 7:30 pm. Call Chair Rita Dalessio at 659-7046 for meeting place.


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