Botanical Hike through Leona Canyon
Details
Join us for a botanical hike through an expansive wooded canyon protected in a 290-acre parkland near Merritt College in Oakland. We will see early blooming forbs and shrubs in the oak and bay woodlands and riparian vegetation on the banks of the shaded creek. On a preliminary hike the silver bush lupine, houndstongue and the starry false lily of the valley were showing spring color and the California buckeye was unfurling bright chartreuse leaves. Leona Canyon has been named a Botanical Priority Protection Area as it supports a unique congregation of ecological conditions and native plants.
Meet at the Leona Canyon staging area in Oakland. From the Leona Canyon staging area we will follow Leona Trail downhill to the Pyrite Trail.
Driving directions from Hwy 13: Take the Redwood Rd exit to Campus Dr and Margie Ln. Park at the Leona Canyon Trailhead. For public transit options check 511.org. There are no restrooms in the Leona Canyon Open Space Preserve.
Please carry water and wear good hiking shoes for mud and rocky terrain. The trip will cover approximately 2 miles. The trail has a moderate slope and includes uneven and rocky sections. Significant rain will postpone or cancel.
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Trip leaders: Camille Nowell, Botanist with Cardno and Danny Slakey, Botanist with AECOM.
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As with any outdoor activity, there are inherent risks in participating. By attending the event, you agree that you are 100% responsible for your own safety, health and well-being.