Adventures With Nature Descriptions

Walk activity rating E=Easy = Under 1 mile, usually level ground.
M=Moderate = 1 to 3 miles, moderately level ground.
A=Active = 3 miles and/or difficult terrain.
S=Strenuous = Difficult, requires high degree of fitness.
H=Hike = Active to strenuous, no intrepretation.
T=Talk = Talk or Lecture.
*=Poison Oak = Poison oak in the area.

Abalone-Treasure of the Sea Abalone has been cherished for centuries by the many cultures of the Pacific Rim. Once common along our coast, a decline in wild population led to closure of commercial diving. Brad shows us how they are farmed in Cayucos - from spawning through ready for market and worldwide distribution. Talk by Brad Buckley

Birds and Nature at Morro Strand Meet at and walk from the parking lot at the west end of Azure Street in north Morro Bay (Take Hwy.1 to San Jacinto, turn toward beach and jog 2 blocks south to Azure). Along the beach observe specialized shorebird and pelagic bird feeding techniques. Binoculars suggested. (M) 1-1.5 mi., 2 hr.

Birds at the Oceano Lagoon Walk along Oceano Lagoon and through the Pismo State Beach native plant gardens to look at waterfowl, songbirds, raptors, and more. We sometimes see an unusual species or more. Bring binoculars, scope and bird book if you have them, hat, sunscreen, and water. Birders of all levels welcome. Meet at the Pismo Nature Center. (M) 3hrs.

Black Hill Trail Walk the most accessible of the volcanic sisters while we discuss their history and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding geography from atop the hill. Take Golf Course Drive past the clubhouse and bear left at fork in road. Meet at the overlook parking lot above Morro Bay Golf Course. (M) 0.5mi., 1-1.5hr.

California Condor Recovery Program and Hi Mountain Lookout Project Once down to a population of only 22, there are now more than 300 California Condors and more than half of those have been released and fly free in the wild. Steve will discuss the biology of endangered condors and other new world vultures, the captive breeding and reintroduction of condors to the wild, recent nesting activities, where to go to observe free-flying condors in the wild, and the continuing threats of lead poisioning and microtrash ingestion. Talk by Steve Schubert

Cayucos Beach Walk Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Cayucos Beach and view various forms of sea life, including kelp, organisms in the tide pools and shore birds. Meet at the pier at Cayucos Beach by the restroom. Wear sturdy shoes and layered clothing for wind protection. Bring binoculars. (E) 1mi., 1.5-2 hrs.

Chumash - Before Spanish Explorers An easy walk by the lagoon at Oceano Campground starting at the Nature Center to hear about the way the Chumash lived before the Spanish explorers. We will look at the plants and animals they used for food and other uses. (*E) 1/2 mi., 1.5 hrs.

Digital Camera Workshop Do you need to know more about how your digital camera functions? Do you need help to purchase a digital camera? This workshop is a basic explanation about the digital camera and how to record your digital camera images. The main function is to focus on getting started with your digital camera adventure. Defining the basic modes settings including compensation, histogram, white balance, ISO adjustments, resolutions, etc. Morro Bay Natural History Museum. (T) 3 hr.

Digital Photo Walk - San Simeon Elephant Seal Viewing Area On this morning twilight/sunrise elephant seal photo walk, bring your point-and-shoot or SLR digital camera with long lens and tripod. Beginners welcome. Experienced docent photographers will be available to answer questions. No formal instruction. See photomorrobay.com and elephantseal.org for more information. Optional participant-organized carpools may leave Morro Bay Azure Street beach State Park parking lot at 5:15 AM to arrive in San Simeon by 6:15 AM. Shooting starts by 6:40 AM. Wheelchair friendly. (M) 0.5 mi., 2 hr.

Digital Photo Walk (Point Buchon) Explore the new Point Buchon Trail along the bluffs south of Montaña de Oro, stopping to photograph the rocky shore. All photographic skill levels are welcome. Experienced docent photographers will help you improve your outdoor and nature photography skills. Meet at the Coon Creek parking area at the very end of Montaña de Oro. Wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes, bring windbreak and water and snack. 200' elevation gain. See photomorrobay.com for more information. (S) 7 mi., 3.5 hrs

Dune Dwellers - Chumash & Dunites A walk in the Oceano Dunes to visit sites of human habitation both pre-history (Chumash) and modern times (Dunites). Walking in the dunes is strenuous. There is a creek crossing and possible wind. Warm layered clothing and drinking water recommended. Binoculars suggested. Meet at the Nature Center, Oceano Campground. (A) 3 mi., 2.5 hr.*

Geology and Dynamics of Change Learn how the Morros and Morro Bay were formed and how coastal erosion and sand drift formed the sand spit. The resulting bay and drainage system nurtured the development of the Morro Bay estuary, which is an important stop on the Pacific Flyway. (T)