About this Event
The coastal bluffs near Stump Beach always reward us with a myriad of spring flowers in a rainbow of colors. We should see: pink-flowered Checkerbloom (Sidalcea malviflora) and Hillside Pea (Lathyrus vestitus); yellow-flowered Footsteps-of-spring (Sanicula arctopoides) and Common Buttercup (Ranunculus californicus); purple-flowered Douglas Iris (Iris douglasiana) and Western Dog Violet (Viola adunca); orange-flowered California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica) and Bush Monkeyflower (Diplacus [=Mimulus] aurantiacus); white-flowered Brownie Thistle (Cirsium quercetorum) and Coastal Bluff Morning-glory (Calystegia purpurata ssp. saxicola). Also many other wildflowers, ferns, flowering shrubs, a rare Ceanothus, Bishop pines (Pinus muricata), a few stunted grand fir trees (Abies grandis), and tafoni – a geologic formation of mysterious origin.
Due to erosion of the trails, we will not be meeting at the Stump Beach parking lot. Instead, we will meet at the Gerstle Cove parking lot, which is accessed through the entrance to Gerstle Campground. Continue downhill to the lowest parking lot. There is a parking fee of $10, or $9 for seniors, if you don't have a State Parks Pass. There are several construction zones on Hwy 1 that can result in delays of up to 20 minutes or so.
Easy to moderate hiking, about 2 miles, mostly flat with some gullies and short rocky stretches. Hiking poles could be useful. Bring snacks, lunch, water, hat, sunscreen, and hiking boots strongly recommended, and be prepared for possible chilly breezes up on the bluff. Dogs are not allowed in state parks. West County carpool: Meet at 8:45 am at the Sebastopol Lucky Supermarket parking lot to leave promptly at 9;00 am. There is usually cell service in that part of the park.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Salt Point State Park, 25050 California 1, Jenner, United States
USD 0.00
