Eco-Friendly Events Calendar

Midpen guided activities are led by trained volunteer docent naturalists. All are welcome.Calling all children between the ages of four and eight along with their parents/guardians to join Docent Naturalists Sabra Abraham, John Seyfarth, and Ann McCarty on a leisurely-paced hike to observe and engage with nature. You’ll walk around Sausal Pond on the Betsy Crowder and Spring Ridge trails and play a game called "Go Find It" in which you search for something in nature to match the description on the cards. There will not be a stop for a snack along the trail but there are picnic tables available at the nearby Portola Valley Town Center for lunch after if you choose. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after March 16 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close March 27 at 2:00 p.m. Please register both adults and children with separate reservations. Where to Meet:The Lower Windy Hill Parking Area at the lower portion of the preserve is located on Portola Road. Please note: This parking lot fills quickly. Please do not park on Portola Road: parking is strictly enforced.

Midpen guided activities are led by trained volunteer docent naturalists. All are welcome.Join Docent Naturalists Greg Azevedo, Jessica Kolla, and Ann McCarty for a leisurely-paced hike at a limited-access area. You’ll travel in a single loop, traversing grassland meadows, mixed evergreen forest, and chaparral. It includes one uphill section with a 500-foot elevation gain. You’ll discuss local history, learn about the pond environment and flora of the area, and enjoy views of Santa Clara Valley while exploring habitats that few humans have recently visited. Bring a snack for a short break. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after March 18 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close March 31 at 2:00 p.m. Where to Meet:Meet at the VTA Park & Ride lot at Camden Avenue @ Highway 85. Docents will lead a carpool to the access area and have a group permit and parking passes for participants. Please arrive on time; the group will depart promptly. All participants must stay for the duration of the activity (no early departures in a closed area). Please note: there are no restrooms in VTA lot, nor the Preserve, so please plan accordingly. Thank you. 

Midpen guided activities are led by trained volunteer docent naturalists. All are welcome.Search for beautiful spring wildflowers while on an exciting and aerobic mountain bike ride with Docent Naturalists An Scharlaken, Steve Crawford, Roger Wigenstam, and Jianfei Hu. This adventure is designed for experienced mountain bikers looking to explore the region's dynamic trails while learning about the different habitats and what flowers grow there. You’ll start with a climb up the Ridge Trail, then ride down the Ancient Oaks Trail, gain elevation again on the Alder Spring Trail, and loop back to the Ridge Trail. This is an advanced-level ride: Participants must be experienced and able to ride steep, narrow trails with an elevation gain of over 1,000 feet. Bring a lunch (you can leave it in your car) if you want to eat together after the ride. (Note: This preserve fills quickly on spring weekends; carpooling encouraged.) Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after March 21 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close April 3 at 2:00 p.m. Where to Meet:Meet at the Russian Ridge Parking Area on the northwest corner of the Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35) and Page Mill/Alpine Road intersection (across Skyline Blvd. on the right). Those traveling from I-280 on Page Mill Rd. should allow approximately 40 minutes travel time.

Midpen guided activities are led by trained volunteer docent naturalists. All are welcome.This activity has been cancelled. Another "Infinite Wonders" is scheduled for May 17; sign-ups will open May 3.  Join Docent Naturalists Greg Azevedo and Naureen Moon for an engaging extension of the popular guided activity, “Wonders of Cherry Springs.” This leisurely-paced hike at a limited-access area will travel in a figure eight, traversing grassland meadows, mixed evergreen forest, and chaparral. It includes two uphill sections, one with a 500-foot elevation gain. You’ll discuss local history, learn about the pond environment and flora of the area, and enjoy views of Santa Clara Valley while exploring habitats that few humans have recently visited. Bring a snack or lunch for a short break. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after March 22 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close April 3 at 2:00 p.m. Where to Meet:Meet at the VTA Park & Ride lot at Camden Avenue @ Highway 85. Docents will lead a carpool to the access area and have a group permit and parking passes for participants. Please arrive on time; the group will depart promptly. All participants must stay for the duration of the activity (no early departures in a closed area). Please note: there are no restrooms in VTA lot, nor the Preserve, so please plan accordingly. Thank you. 

Midpen guided activities are led by trained volunteer docent naturalists. All are welcome.Join Docent Naturalists Nancy Weintraub, Nick Yatsko, Marie Faust Evitt, and Lindsay Joye on a challenging, moderately-paced trek up to Black Mountain in Montebello Preserve from the neighboring Rancho San Antonio Preserve. After a car shuttle to Deer Hollow Farm, you’ll begin the trek with a gentle ascent, then ramble up the High Meadow Trail to the "PG&E bench" for amazing vistas traversing woodlands, grasslands, and chaparral. You’ll then explore the less-traveled Quarry Trail leading to the steep Black Mountain Trail. Bring a lot of water and a lunch for a well-deserved rest stop at the summit of Black Mountain. The group will determine the route back to the farm (out-and-back or loop down Black Mountain to the Chamise Trail, adding two miles to the journey). Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after March 23 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close April 3 at 2:00 p.m. Where to Meet:Meet near the restroom at the bottom of the hill in the preserve parking lot farthest to the right. From I-280, take Foothill Boulevard south and turn right almost immediately onto Cristo Rey Drive. Continue about 1 mile, veer right around the traffic circle, and turn left into the park. After entering the preserve, turn right and drive approximately 0.3 miles to Lot 6. 

Midpen guided activities are led by trained volunteer docent naturalists. All are welcome.Enjoy a leisurely-paced hike with Docent Naturalists Bobbie Riedel, Nick Yatsko, and Ann Reisenauer to explore the cultural and natural history of the Hawthorns Area, a limited-access location separate from the rest of Windy Hill Preserve. You’ll meander through grasslands, pass an olive orchard, wander along a stream, and see structures built in the late 1880s. You will hear how people used this unique property through the decades, discover its different ecosystems, and appreciate sweeping views of the mountains and the bay. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after March 26 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close April 8 at 2:00 p.m. Where to Meet:Directions will be sent after registration closes.

Midpen guided activities are led by trained volunteer docent naturalists. All are welcome.Ready for the first guided nocturnal invertebrate treasure hunt of the year? Join Docent Naturalists Debbi Brusco, Jack Owicki, Vivian Neou, and Ray Curiel on this moderately-paced meander along the Spring Ridge and Betsy Crowder trails with extended stops to observe smaller wildlife and their signs. Once it gets dark, you'll listen for night creatures and try to identify who you’re hearing. This activity is geared toward adults but attentive children ten years and older are welcome. Bring snacks for a brief break and a flashlight that has a red light or red filter if you have it. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after March 27 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close April 9 at 2:00 p.m. Where to Meet:The Lower Windy Hill Parking Area at the lower portion of the preserve is located on Portola Road. Please note: This parking lot fills quickly. Please do not park on Portola Road: parking is strictly enforced.

Join expert EV docents for an exploration of the science and nature of the Palo Alto Baylands.

Join the EV for a fun exploration of local open space, led by our environmental educators. Intended for all ages 6 and up.

Midpen guided activities are led by trained volunteer docent naturalists. All are welcome.Join Docent Naturalists Ani Agahian and Minh Pham for a serene sunset adventure geared towards your canine companions. You’ll begin this moderately-paced hike on the Cielo Trail and visit the impressive “Big Tree,” one of the few remaining old-growth redwoods in the area. You’ll then take Coho Vista Loop Trail and stop at the Vista Point to enjoy sweeping views of the sunset to round out the evening. Dogs are welcome but not required—just your sense of curiosity and love for nature. Remember to bring a flashlight. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after March 28 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close April 10 at 2:00 p.m. Where to Meet:Meet at the Allen Road Permit Parking Area. From I-280, take CA-84 west for 6.8 miles. Turn right on CA-35/Skyline Boulevard and travel 2.3 miles. Turn left onto Bear Gulch Road. After 0.6 miles, turn left onto Allen Road for one mile. Continue onto Kebet Ridge Road for 0.3 miles. The preserve will be on your right. Note: Vehicle access requires a parking permit, which the docent will have. There is no parking available outside of the preserve gate on Allen Road. 

Join us for a fun weekday hike with great company and fresh air!Hike with the Friends: Weekday HikeJoin us for a fun and friendly in-person hiking adventure! It's a perfect chance to stay active, meet new friends, and enjoy the great outdoors together. Hike designed for active participants. 4-5 miles with approximately700 elevation gain on beautiful trails. Meet at the ZWIERLEIN parking area at 9:00 AM sharp! Participants DO NOT pay parking fee at entry. Lace up your shoes, bring water, layers, and sun protection and come explore nature with fellow seniors leading the way! Hike hosted by the Friends of Huddart & Wunderlich Parks and guided by volunteer naturalist Dennis Ruby.

Midpen guided activities are led by trained volunteer docent naturalists. All are welcome.Explore large-scale habitat restoration in the San Gregorio Creek watershed with Docent Naturalists Susan Dunn, Nancy Weintraub, and Nick Yatsko. This vigorously-paced hike will follow the Cielo Trail to Vista Point for a view of the Pacific Ocean. Then you'll descend the new Coho Vista Trail to follow a loop along the Western Meadowlark and Lone Madrone trails. You'll see how restoration efforts on protected land are improving the San Gregorio Creek drainage to encourage healthy forests, diverse grasslands, and native fish. Bring a lunch or snack for a stop along the way. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after April 3 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close April 16 at 2:00 p.m. Where to Meet:Meet at the Allen Road Permit Parking Area. From I-280, take CA-84 west for 6.8 miles. Turn right on CA-35/Skyline Boulevard and travel 2.3 miles. Turn left onto Bear Gulch Road. After 0.6 miles, turn left onto Allen Road for one mile. Continue onto Kebet Ridge Road for 0.3 miles. The preserve will be on your right. Note: Vehicle access requires a parking permit, which the docent will have. There is no parking available outside of the preserve gate on Allen Road. 

Midpen guided activities are led by trained volunteer docent naturalists. All are welcome.Spend the morning mountain biking the trails while learning the history of this popular preserve, looking for wildlife, and admiring spring wildflowers with Docent Naturalists Linda Wegner and Steve Crawford. This is an advanced-level ride with approximately 2,000 feet of climbing. The route covers several trails, including the Toyon, Seven Springs Loop, and Woodhills Loop, as well as climbs to Maisie’s Peak, Hunter’s Point, and Nob Hill. Experience with riding both single track and fire roads is required. Bring a power snack to fuel your climb. (Note: The parking area fills quickly; please arrive early.) Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after April 4 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close April 17 at 2:00 p.m. Where to Meet:Meet at the Prospect Parking Area on Prospect Road in Cupertino.  Exit Highway 85 at De Anza Boulevard.  (From northbound 85 turn left on De Anza Blvd. and from southbound 85 turn right on De Anza Blvd.)  Travel on De Anza Blvd. (toward the mountains) for about 0.5 miles.  Turn right on Prospect Rd.  At the first stop sign, turn left and cross the railroad tracks to remain on Prospect Rd. Follow Prospect Rd. for 1.3 miles, turning left after the Saratoga Country Club, until you reach the preserve parking lot. 

Join Environmental Volunteers for a sustainable day of art and nature crafts, and exploring the beauty of the Baylands.Join us for a celebration of the beauty of nature - in the baylands and in our art - and learn how we can use art to help protect the planet!We'll paint using dyes made from food, create sculptures and other art from throw-away items, explore the power of the sun to produce art, and more! As part of this event, we'll also be hosting guided nature walks around the beautiful baylands habitat with expert leaders. Come for a little while or stay all day!This event - including the art activities and the nature walks - is completely free, but advanced registration for the walks is required as space is limited.Art activities are for all ages. Nature walks are for ages 6 and up.About the Baylands Nature PreserveThe 1,940-acre Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve includes some of the last remaining undisturbed marshlands in the San Francisco Bay. Considered one of the best bird watching areas on the West Coast, the Baylands provide essential habitat for migratory shorebirds and endangered species such as the Ridgway's Rail and the Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse.About Environmental VolunteersEnvironmental Volunteers has inspired people of all ages for over 50 years to learn about the wonders of the natural world. We train volunteers to bring immersive science and nature-based experiences to over 20,000 students each year. Through field trips and programs in the classroom, in the community, and at the EcoCenter, we grow students’ environmental awareness, connect kids and adults to the outdoors, and instill a desire to protect Earth’s beauty and natural resources.

Midpen guided activities are led by trained volunteer docent naturalists. All are welcome.Explore the less-traveled southern end of this preserve on a leisurely-paced walk on the Waterwheel Creek Trail led by Docent Naturalists Maureen Draper, Susan Bernhard, Noa Doitel, and Ann Reisenauer. While appreciating a backdrop of stunning views of Mt. Umunhum, Black Mountain, Skyline Ridge, and the ocean, you'll learn how flowers evolved into the beauties you see today. Smack in the middle of spring, you’ll be guaranteed to encounter some colorful examples “in the petal,” maybe even the exotic looking, bell-shaped checker lilies. (Note: You’ll meet at the Picchetti Ranch Parking Area and carpool to the Waterwheel Creek trailhead.) Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after April 10 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close April 23 at 2:00 p.m. Where to Meet:For this activity at Monte Bello Preserve, meet at the Picchetti Ranch Preserve parking lot. From the intersection of I-280 and Foothill Expressway, go 3.5 miles southwest (toward the mountains) on Foothill Boulevard/Stevens Canyon Road.  Turn right on Montebello Road.  The preserve is 0.5 miles up Montebello Rd. on the left. Participants will carpool to the trailhead for this activity.

Join the EV each month on the last Saturday from 10-11:30am for a hands-on exploration of nature and science. For children ages 7-9.

Midpen guided activities are led by trained volunteer docent naturalists. All are welcome.Search for beautiful spring wildflowers while on an exciting and aerobic mountain bike ride with Docent Naturalists An Scharlaken, Steve Crawford, Jianfei Hu, and Veronica Chouinard. This adventure is designed for experienced mountain bikers looking to explore the region's dynamic trails while learning about the different habitats and what flowers grow there. You’ll start with a climb up the Ridge Trail, then ride down the Ancient Oaks Trail, gain elevation again on the Alder Spring Trail, and loop back to the Ridge Trail. This is an advanced-level ride: Participants must be experienced and able to ride steep, narrow trails with an elevation gain of over 1,000 feet. Bring a lunch (you can leave it in your car) if you want to eat together after the ride. (Note: This preserve fills quickly on spring weekends; carpooling encouraged.) Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after April 18 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close May 1 at 2:00 p.m. Where to Meet:Meet at the Russian Ridge Parking Area on the northwest corner of the Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35) and Page Mill/Alpine Road intersection (across Skyline Blvd. on the right). Those traveling from I-280 on Page Mill Rd. should allow approximately 40 minutes travel time.

Join the EV for a fun exploration of local open space, led by our environmental educators. Intended for all ages 6 and up.

Midpen guided activities are led by trained volunteer docent naturalists. All are welcome.Join Docent Naturalists Greg Azevedo and Chris MacIntosh for a leisurely-paced hike at a limited-access area. You’ll travel in a single loop, traversing grassland meadows, mixed evergreen forest, and chaparral. It includes one uphill section with a 500-foot elevation gain. You’ll discuss local history, learn about the pond environment and flora of the area, and enjoy views of Santa Clara Valley while exploring habitats that few humans have recently visited. Bring a snack for a short break. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after April 19 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close May 1 at 2:00 p.m. Where to Meet:Meet at the VTA Park & Ride lot at Camden Avenue @ Highway 85. Docents will lead a carpool to the access area and have a group permit and parking passes for participants. Please arrive on time; the group will depart promptly. All participants must stay for the duration of the activity (no early departures in a closed area). Please note: there are no restrooms in VTA lot, nor the Preserve, so please plan accordingly. Thank you. 

Midpen guided activities are led by trained volunteer docent naturalists. All are welcome.What secrets do the oak woodlands hold? Join Docent Naturalists Melissa Hero and Jan Hintermeister in exploring the rich biodiversity and ecological significance of the oak woodlands. On this moderately-paced hike along the Waterwheel Creek Trail you’ll search for different species of these iconic California trees and learn what makes them unique. But beyond identifying them, you’ll discover the intricate relationships between various plants and animals who call this habitat home. Please bring a snack and something to sit on, as well as hiking poles if you need them. Note that you’ll meet at Picchetti Ranch Preserve to carpool to the trailhead at Monte Bello Preserve. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after April 19 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close May 1 at 2:00 p.m. Where to Meet:For this activity at Monte Bello Preserve, meet at the Picchetti Ranch Preserve parking lot. From the intersection of I-280 and Foothill Expressway, go 3.5 miles southwest (toward the mountains) on Foothill Boulevard/Stevens Canyon Road.  Turn right on Montebello Road.  The preserve is 0.5 miles up Montebello Rd. on the left. Participants will carpool to the trailhead for this activity.