About this Event
Our saunter will follow in the footsteps and paw prints of 19th-century botanic explorer David Douglas and his faithful dog, Billy. As we walk up Mitchell Canyon, we'll view many of the flora collected by the dynamic duo, including the rare and endemic Mount Diablo Globe Lily. (David Douglas also collected poison oak, but we'll keep a safe distance from that one!)
We will also describe the traditional uses and folklore associated with the flowers, shrubs, and trees we encounter on our hike.
Mount Diablo has experienced many wildfires over the years. Explore the latest insights in our research into the critical role of Greenbelts in fire resilience
Photo: Ken Lavin
TOTAL DISTANCE
This is a moderate hike of 4-miles round trip with a slight elevation gain. You may opt for a 2-mile round trip hike.
LEADERS
Ken Lavin and Liz Watson
WEATHER POLICY
Rain cancels.
COST
There is a $6 per vehicle park entrance fee ( $5 for seniors). Exact cash required; pay at the entrance gate. You may also pay digitally by scanning the QR code on the sign near the entrance gate or Visitor Center; or text CA2902 to 53242. No app is required.
WHERE TO MEET
We'll assemble at the Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center.
NOTES
Bring snacks and water. Dress in layers and wear good hiking shoes. Bring poles if you normally use them. When Billy the terrier visited in 1831, David Douglas's best friend was allowed to rove on Mount Diablo. Dogs aren’t allowed on park trails nowadays, so leave your canine friends at home. If you have any questions about this outing, email Ken Lavin at [email protected]
ABOUT THE OUTING LEADERS
Ken Lavin is the Outing Coordinator for Greenbelt Alliance and has been leading our free educational outings for over a decade. Ken worked as a national park ranger in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and as an instructor for Diablo Nature Adventures, teaching environmental science to school groups in Mount Diablo State Park. He served both as president and longtime board member of the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association (MDIA).
Liz Watson is a special education teacher at Liberty High School in Brentwood. Liz is a certified California naturalist.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Mount Diablo State Park - Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center, 96 Mitchell Canyon Road, Clayton, United States
USD 0.00 to USD 108.55
