Sunday, October 4

Hike: Mission Trails Park, Carmel
Join me for a 2-3 mile walk in Mission Trails Park in Carmel to explore and enjoy wild lands in the middle of Carmel. We'll start across from the Carmel Mission on Rio Road and aim for the Outdoor Forest Theater and Flanders Mansion on the return. There will be a couple hundred feet of elevation gain, and trails may be sandy / slippery. We will be on city streets for part of the walk. Bring water and a snack. Please call me for earlyish starting time and a reservation. Leader: Martha Saylor, 372-9215.

Friday, October 9
Potluck & Slides: The Future of Walking
With climate change on the horizon, what will walking be like in the future? Ventana editor, Debbie Bulger is also a member of the Santa Cruz Group Transportation Committee and a pedestrian advocate. 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 items (minimum value $5) make great contributions too. Donations of $1 or more for projector maintenance would be appreciated. For directions call George, 335-7748.

Sunday, October 11
Hike: Soberanes Creek/Rocky Ridge
This 5-mile loop with 1700' elevation gain features great terrain variety. We'll follow the Soberanes Creek Trail into the verdant redwood grove then climb steeply to grassy knolls for the spectacular view at lunch. Then we descend Rocky Ridge with more fine views. Boots recommended; hiking poles helpful. Bring water and lunch. Meet at Rio Road Park & Ride at 9:00 a.m. to carpool. Call for reservation. Leader: DJ Goehring, 277-9908.

Tuesday, October 13
Hike: Maple Falls
This 6-mile Nisene Marks hike with 700' elevation gain takes us through a lovely forest along beautiful creeks and eventually to serene Maple Falls. Some agility is required. Bring water & lunch. Arrive early, we depart at 8:45 a.m. sharp from Shell station by Home Depot in Seaside or from parking lot behind Aptos Station at 9:30 a.m. sharp. Call for reservation. Lynn Bomberger, 375-7777.

Tuesday, October 13
Senior hike: Waddell / Big Basin
5-mile hike on tree-lined dirt roads, sun & shade. Some uphill. We'll take the Marsh Trail to Nature Center for lunch. Prepare for sun/heat/dust/fog/wind. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Avenue or at 9:50 a.m. at Shen's at Mission & King Streets. Bring lunch, water, $4 carpool. Leader: Pat Herzog, 458-9841.

Wednesday, October 14
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, October 16
Bike Ride: Pacific Grove to Marina
Let's explore the links in the Coast Trail through Monterey and Sand City and see how they connect with the Monterey/Pacific Grove Rec. Trail and the Fort Ord Dunes State Park. Meet at Lovers Point in Pacific Grove at 10:00 a.m. at the start of the Rec. Trail. Please arrive with your bicycle in working condition with the tires properly inflated. Our route will be almost all on paved bike trails with some street work at the Marina end and behind Costco in Sand City. Expect a relatively flat ride with a few short, sharp hills. Be prepared for headwinds and some congestion on the trail, especially around the Fisherman's Wharf area on the return trip. Total distance is about 30 miles, but we'll take it at a leisurely pace. Helmets mandatory. Bring water and lunch which we'll eat at Locke Paddon Park in Marina. Leaders: Cath Farrant and Mary Dainton, 372 7427.

Saturday, October 17
Hike: Mal Paso to Rocky Ridge
We'll meander up a private road above Mal Paso Creek 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 5-6 miles with 1000' of elevation gain. Bring lunch, water, and wear good hiking boots. Call early for reservations, meeting time and place. Leader: Larry Parrish, 622-7455.

Tuesday, October 20
Senior Hike: Mt. Madonna
Moderate 3-½-mile hike. We'll return via Gizdich Farms for dessert. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. To go direct, meet by 10:00 a.m. just beyond the park's kiosk entrance by restrooms or call leader. Bring lunch, water, $3 carpool, and share of entrance fee. Leader: Joan Brohmer, 462-3803.

Saturday, October 24
Hike: Medicine Buddha
This loop does not enter Nisene Marks proper but loops back to the west along Bates Creek to our start. 7-8 miles with 1200' elevation gain. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Home Depot parking lot in Soquel farthest area away from the store and closest to 41st Ave to carpool. Call if this new meeting place is confusing. Leader: Nick Wyckoff 462-3101.

Sunday, October 25
Hike: Mt Manuel to Post Summit
Another look into the areas burned by the fires last year along with outstanding coastal views. We'll climb 3000' up Mt Manuel before dropping then climbing 1000' to Post summit ending at Molera State Park. A long hot hike with some brushy trails. 12 miles; expect to spend all day. Bring hat, sunscreen, lunch and snack, sturdy boots, 2 liters water minimum. Leaving Sears 41st Ave. 7:30 a.m. sharp. Leaving Rio Road Park and Ride at 8:30 a.m. Leader: John Howerton, 476-4253.

Tuesday, October 27
Senior Walk: Neary Lagoon/Wharf
3-mile walk from Lighthouse Field to Neary Lagoon to Santa Cruz Wharf. Bring lunch or eat at one of the wharf's restaurants. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or at 9:50 a.m. at the Lighthouse Field parking lot across the street from the museum. $2 carpool. Leader: Jean Harrison, 425-5447.

Tuesday, October 27
Hike: Garzas Creek
Our 4-½-mile loop with 900' elevation gain takes us through a redwood canyon and along Garzas Creek with six picturesque crossings. Moderate pace with stops to enjoy flora & fauna. Bring water & lunch. Arrive early, we depart at 10:00 a.m. sharp from Park & Ride on Rio Road. Call for a reservation. Leader: Lynn Bomberger, 375-7777.

Thursday, October 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, October 31
Hike: Mill Creek
The trail at Mill Creek takes us 5 miles round trip on the best-engineered trail in Big Sur, so we'll call it moderately easy at our slowpoke pace. We'll walk out to a high point above the ocean for great views of the coast and return by the same well-graded trail. The requirement for parking permits means you must reserve a space, so call leader by Friday the 29th. Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes; bring lunch and water. Meet at 10:00 a.m. at the Park and Ride on Rio Road. Leader: Mary Gale, 626-3565.

Saturday, October 31 - Sunday, November 1
Day of the Dead Weekend fete
Enjoy a costume parade, games, a piñata, and other fun. Explore another cultural view of remembrance of someone in your past at Clair Tappaan Lodge in the Tahoe Sierra. For information and reservations, call the lodge at 1-800-679-6775 or click on ctl.sierraclub.org.

Sunday, November 1
Hike: Terrace Creek
Let's see the surroundings of the August 2008 fires and the new growth. We'll hike up the Pine Ridge Trail for about 5 miles, then go up beautiful Terrace Creek Trail to the old Coast Road and walk back down via the Ventana Resort. 11 miles with 1600' elevation gain. We will take it very slowly! Great views up and down the coast from the Road. Bring a big lunch and lots of water. Meet at Save Mart for a car shuttle. Call before to confirm and for meeting time. Leader: Anneliese Suter, 624-1467.

Wednesday, November 4
Outing Leaders Meeting Monterey
Please come and check out our new meeting place at the Monterey Public Library at 7:15 p.m. No snacks or drinks; bring your own water. Hope to see you. Anneliese Suter, 624-1467.

Friday - Sunday, November 6 - 8
Mojave Nat'l Preserve Service Trip
Help the Mojave National Preserve clean up a large illegal dump that has built up over the years. Work all day Saturday and until noon on Sunday. A barbecue will be provided by Preserve staff Saturday evening. A hike is planned for those arriving in the morning on Friday. There will be a Ranger talk about the Preserve on Friday. Camping will be rustic, with a portable restroom. High clearance vehicle is recommended to access the site, but we can shuttle people and gear if needed. Email or call leader for reservation information. Leader: Rich Juricich, , 916-492-2181.

Saturday, November 7
Hike: Castle Rock, San Lorenzo River Headwaters
Starting at the park boundary at Hwy. 9, we'll cross the San Lorenzo River within 100 yds of the spring that is its true headwaters and walk to the campgrounds we visited 2 months ago. 8 miles and 1300' elevation gain. 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, November 7
Hike: Wilder Ranch
This is a reschedule of the hike I had to cancel due to smoke! We will hike through open meadows and several beautiful forested areas. Lunch at the top of the Eucalyptus Loop with sweeping ocean view. 10-mile loop, 900' elevation gain. Bring water, lunch, and wear comfortable shoes. Meet at the Santa Cruz County Government Center at 9:30 a.m. to carpool. Heavy rain cancels. Leader: Pamela Burnham, 428-2796.

Sunday, November 8
Hike: Pt. Lobos
We'll start this 4-mile hike around the edges of beautiful Point Lobos at the highway, go to Whaler's Cove, to the top of Whaler's Knoll via North Shore Trail and return via southern trails. There is usually wildlife to see and the Whaler's Cabin (if open). Meet at the Park & Ride on Rio Road, for a short carpool. Call leader to reserve a space and for meeting time. Bring snack, water, and binoculars if you like for close-ups of animal life. Leader: Martha Saylor, 372-9215.

Tuesday, November 10
Senior Hike: Jacks Peak
We'll hike a Monterey Pine forest atop the highest point of the Monterey Peninsula. Great views. Some hills, but not too steep. NOTE - WE WILL MEET BEFORE 10:00 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. as park opens at 11:00 a.m. To go direct, take Hwy. 1 then 68 east. See sign for park entrance across from airport entrance. Restrooms. Bring lunch, water, $4 carpool, and share of entrance fee. Rain cancels. Leader: Pat Herzog, 458-9841.

Wednesday, November 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, November 13
Potluck & Slides: Potpourri
Several people will present favorite slides. If you have a few slides (1-10 or more) to contribute let George know in advance of the show. 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 items (minimum value $5) make great contributions too. Donations of $1 or more for projector maintenance would be appreciated. For directions call George, 335-7748.

Sunday, November 15
Hike: Soberanes Creek/Rocky Ridge
This 5-mile loop with 1700' elevation gain features great terrain variety. We'll follow the Soberanes Creek Trail into the verdant redwood grove, then climb steeply to grassy knolls for a spectacular view at lunch. Then we descend Rocky Ridge with more fine views. Boots are recommended; hiking poles helpful. Bring water and lunch. Meet at Rio Road Park & Ride at 9:00 a.m. to carpool. Call for reservation. Leader: DJ Goehring, 277-9908.

Tuesday, November 17
Senior Walk: Lighthouse field/West Cliff Drive
3-mile walk from Lighthouse Field to Natural Bridges. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or at 9:50 a.m. at Lighthouse Field at parking lot across street from museum. Bring lunch, water, $2 carpool. We'll lunch at Natural Bridges. Leader: Jean Harrison, 425-5447.

Thursday, November 19
Walk: Elkhorn Slough
There should be plenty of migrating birds to enjoy. Bring your binoculars & $2.50 entrance fee for this 5-mile walk around the National Estuarine Research Reserve. Sack lunch is optional as great restaurants are nearby. Arrive early; we depart at 9:00 a.m. sharp from the Visitor's Center parking lot. Call for a reservation. Leader: Lynn Bomberger, 375-7777.

Friday, November 20
Potluck & Pics: John Muir Trail Survivor
Join us for a video presentation of John and Julie’s backpack in the Sierras this past summer! Potluck starts at 6:30. Bring food to share and your own washable plate, cup, utensils and serving utensils. The event will be at the New Brighton State Beach, Friday, 11-20, 6:30 potluck, 7:30 Show. Park Ave. exit, it will be in the visitors center. Call for details after November 6. John Howerton, 476-4253.

Saturday, November 21
Hike: Lompico Creek Headwaters
Lompico Creek Headwaters was acquired recently by Sempervirens Fund. It is located in an old and scenic area near Felton. 4-5 miles with 800' elevation gain. Some steep and difficult trails. Wear boots. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Santa Cruz County Government Center to carpool. Call for more information. Leader: Nick Wyckoff, 462-3101.

Sunday, November 22
Hike: Big Basin, Tree to Sea
Fall colors should be strong, although there is never a bad time to do this hike. 14 miles from park headquarters to Waddell Beach. Meet at the Santa Cruz Metro Bus Center at 8:20 a.m. to catch the 35A for the ride to the park. The bus leaves on time. Exact change needed for bus. ($1.50 adult, 75-¢ over age 62.) Leader: John Howerton, 476-4253.

Tuesday, November 24
Senior Hike: Harvey West
An easy 3 miles through the redwood forest and the historic Evergreen Cemetery. Meet before 9:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or at 9:50 a.m. at the Harvey West parking area by the ball fields. We'll lunch there. Bring lunch, water, $2 carpool. Leader: Janet Schwind, 425-3845.

Wednesday, November 25
Backpack/Hike: Thanksgiving at Pine Ridge
If you do not have plans for Thanksgiving Day, come spend it with us in Pine Valley with Jack English. Backpack to Jack's Cabin and join him and his guests for a great Thanksgiving Dinner. Stay as many days as you like. It will be a holiday you will not forget. If you have not been to Pine Valley in the Ventana Wilderness, it is a must! The mountain ranges are spectacular. The rock formations are incredible. The meadow above Jack's place is soothing for the soul. For information and reservation, call leader: Esperanza Hernandez, 678-1968.

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

Saturday, November 28
Hike: Coastal Hikes
A more gentle walk to get rid of some of our Thanksgiving indulgences. A series of shorter hikes, totaling 8 miles that take in the beauty, nature and history of our coast. Meet at the Santa Cruz County Government Center parking lot at 9:30 a.m. to carpool. Bring lunch, water, binoculars, and wind protection. Heavy rain cancels. Leader: Pamela Burnham, 428-2796.

Saturday, November 28
Hike: Old Coach Road to San Juan Bautista
We'll hike on Old Coast Road all the way over the hills and down to San Juan Bautista. After lunch at one of the many restaurants or our own packed lunch, and after exploring the Mission and old town, we'll go back the same way, more uphill now. 12 miles and 1000' elevation gain at a leisurely pace-a good work-out after Thanksgiving. Bring a hat, water, and lunch or $ for a restaurant. Wear good shoes and bring your hiking poles. Meet at Home Depot in Seaside near the gas station at 8:30 a.m. Heavy rain cancels. Call to confirm the hike. Leader: Anneliese Suter, 624-1467.

Tuesday, December 1
Walk: Asilomar Beach/Pacific Grove Lighthouse
A 4-mile hike along the Coast Trail to Pacific Grove Lighthouse with frequent stops to view birds, tide pools, otters, and maybe dolphins or whales. Bring lunch and water. Meet at the Fishwife Restaurant (Sunset Dr. and Asilomar Blvd) at 11:00 a.m. Those wishing to carpool from Santa Cruz meet at Sears 41st Ave. and leave there by 10:00 a.m. or sooner (no leader). Leader: Phyllis Hilton, 372-1714.

Saturday, December 5
Hike: Ft. Ord
We'll enter from the Reservation Rd. parking area. 6-8 miles and 1200' elevation gain. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Mar Monte exit in Aptos to carpool. Call Nick for additional information. Leader: Nick Wyckoff, 462-3101.

Saturday, December 5
Hike: Garland Ranch
Come along on this 4+ mile hike. We'll walk up to the Mesa via Buckeye and Waterfall Trails, come back via Fern, Mesa, and Lupine Loop Trails. Nice valley views; trails may be muddy. Meet at Save Mart to carpool. Please call leader to reserve space and for meeting time, or if wanting to meet at Garland Ranch parking lot. Bring snack/lunch, and water. Rain cancels. Leader: Martha Saylor, 372-9215.

Sunday, December 6
Hike: Garland Ranch
Do we need to work off some of that stuffing and pie we ingested back on Turkey Day? Let's hope for a clear day and puff up and down a few hills somewhere around Garland Ranch. Slow pace; under 5 miles. Dress in layers; bring lunch, water and hiking stick to help on tricky trail spots. Meet at 10:00 a.m. at the main parking lot (downhill from the shoulder of Carmel Valley Road!!!) or if coming from town, check for carpoolers at the Rio Road Park and Ride at 9:40 a.m. No leader there, so just wave your rucksack around and see who responds. Real Rain cancels! Leader: Mary Gale, 626-3565.

Tuesday, December 8
Hike: Mitteldorf Preserve
This 4-½-mile loop with 900' elevation gain has 8 bridged creek crossings, a redwood forest, and spectacular views. Moderate pace with stops to enjoy flora & fauna. Bring water & lunch. Arrive early; we depart at 9:30 a.m. sharp from Park & Ride on Rio Road. Call for a reservation. Leader: Lynn Bomberger, 375-7777.

Tuesday, December 8
Senior Holiday Lunch
This year, we’ll lunch at Jalisco’s in Watsonville, a long time favorite with great food. Prices, entree selection to follow later. Meet before 11:30 a.m. at Sears 41st Ave. or go direct to Jalisco’s on Main Street. Leader: Pat Herzog, 458-9841.

Wednesday, December 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, December 11
Hike: Pacific Grove & Butterflies
Have the Monarchs returned to PG? Let's find out on this easy coastal walk of 5-6 miles. Meet at 10:00 a.m. outside the Fishwife restaurant, 1996 1/2 Sunset Drive. We'll walk around Spanish Bay and might even be lucky enough to spot a grey whale on its southern migration. From there we'll head along the coast to Rocky Shores, then up to the Butterfly Sanctuary, retuning via the old railroad trail. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the leaders' back yard near the end of the walk, or treat yourself to a late lunch at the Fishwife. Leaders: Cath Farrant and Mary Dainton, 372 7427.

Saturday, December 12
Hike: Fall Creek
Enjoy the late fall colors in Fall Creek. This 9-mile hike is always spectacular no matter when you're there. 1200' elevation gain. Meet at the Santa Cruz County Government Center parking lot at 9:30 a.m. to carpool. Bring water, lunch, and sturdy shoes or hiking boots. Heavy rain cancels. Leader: Pamela Burnham, 928-2796.

Saturday - Sunday, December 12 - 13
Service and Hiking in a Southern Desert
This is the cooler season to visit the southern deserts. Our project on Saturday will be on the east side of the North Algadones Dunes Wilderness, approximately 20 miles east of Brawley, CA, where we will rebuild facilities at the Watchable Wildlife Site. Saturday evening is a carcamp with potluck dinner. Sunday we will take a recreational hike either from our work site or else in the nearby Indian Pass Wilderness. For information contact leader Craig Deutsche, , 310-477-6670.

Sunday December 13
Hike: Wilder Ranch
A nice long meander around the park taking the Engelsman, Long Meadow, Eucalyptus, Enchanted, Baldwin and Ohlone Bluff Trails. A perfect place for a cooler fall day! Bring food and water; dress in layers. Meet at the Santa Cruz County Government Center at 9:00 a.m. or Wilder Ranch at 9:20 a.m. Leader: John Howerton, 476-4253.

Monday - Saturday, December 28 - January 2
Holiday Service in the Carrizo Plain National Monument
The Carrizo Plain, near San Luis Obispo, is a vast grassland home to pronghorn antelope, tule elk, kit fox, and a wide variety of birds. A welcome hike Dec. 28, three and a half days of service modifying barbed wire fencing, and a full day for hiking and exploring are planned. Use of accommodations at Goodwin Ranch included. Limited to 14 participants, $30 covers five dinners. For more information, contact leader: Craig Deutsche, craig.deutsche@gmail.com, (310-477-6670), or co-leader Melinda Goodwater, mgoodwater@sbcglobal.net, (408-774-1257).

Thursday, December 31
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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