On the Lookout for Tarantulas

Overview: our plan is a 5-mile hike with 800' of elevation gain, stopping often to share observations.

Notice: After deciding you want to come, sign up here on the Chapter Calendar. No sign ups on Meetup. Contact me in private chat or by email if you're having any difficulty getting your name on the list.

If you have a fear of spiders, this event is not for you. We hope to see some of the larger male Arachnids that have come out of their secretive burrows as they search for a lovely mate. As we walk along, there will be plenty of other seasonal changes to note. For one, this is expected to be a mast year, which means unusually heavy acorn production. What else indicates that summer is behind us?

Wear sturdy shoes. Bring plenty of water (none available on site) plus lunch. Layered clothing is recommended.
Restroom near trailhead.

Since this is an official Sierra Club hike, you need to sign a liability waiver at the trailhead, if not online. Also, don't forget to bring your medical form to show to one of the leaders. You can get a copy of the Local Outings Medical Form here.

Looking back, it would be easy to imagine the native Tamien Nation living in this area, hunting and gathering their food from the local abundance. More recently, a group of activists was looking ahead, and in 1993 the Open Space Authority was voted into existence. We can thank these folks by continuing to appreciate and care for this land.

Directions: Take Hwy 85 south until it meets Hwy 101. Continue on Hwy 101 S and take the Bailey Ave. exit. At McKean Rd. turn left. Watch for Casa Loma Rd. and turn right. The park is at the end of this road.