Midpen guided activities are led by trained volunteer docent naturalists. All are welcome.Did you know that bats are the only flying mammals on the planet, and that they hold world records in several categories? Join Docent Naturalists Annette Herz, Cathy Brown, Melissa Hero, and Jan Hintermeister for a short, leisurely-paced twilight hike to see and hear your fellow mammals hunting over Alpine Pond if they are out. You’ll discover a bit about the mystery of bats, including how they are vital natural predators of insects as well as fulfilling other important ecological roles. Bring a flashlight for a safe walk back to the car. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after August 1 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close August 14 at 2:00 p.m. Where to Meet:For this activity at Skyline Ridge Preserve, 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.

Guided weekday hike!Join us for a walk in the woods! It's a perfect chance to stay active, meet new friends, and enjoy the great outdoors together. Meet at 9:00 AM sharp! Lace up your shoes, bring water, layers, and sun protection. Meet at the Purisima Creek Redwoods Roadside parking area! There are two lots and it can be confusing, put in these GPS Coordinates for parking: 37°25'48.7"N 122°18'48.2"W. Hike 5 miles, 700 elevation gain.Hike hosted by the Friends of Huddart & Wunderlich Parks and guided by volunteer naturalist Dennis Ru Upper Huddart Park.

Midpen guided activities are led by trained volunteer docent naturalists. All are welcome.Enjoy a shady, moderately-paced hike among oaks and redwoods as you learn about August Schilling, the owner of the grand estate that once graced this property. Join Docent Naturalists Mary Brunkhorst, Susan Dunn, and Nick Yatsko to enjoy the cultural stories and natural history of this tucked-away preserve. Your route will follow the Schilling and Bridle trails, and the hike includes a snack break near Dennis Martin Creek before retracing the trails back to the top. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after August 5 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close August 18 at 2:00 p.m. Where to Meet:Meet at the Thornewood Parking Area on La Honda Road. From I-280, take the Highway 84/Woodside Road exit. Follow Highway 84/Woodside Road through Woodside and then to a junction with Portola Road at 3.3. miles. Bear right to stay on Highway 84, now La Honda Road. At 4.9 miles from Highway 280, turn left at a brick wall marked 895-897; look for the Midpen sign just inside this gate. The small parking area is on the right about 500 feet from the entrance gate. Please do not drive beyond this lot toward the private residences. Alternatively, from the junction of Highway 35 (Skyline Boulevard) and Highway 84 in Sky Londa, take Highway 84/La Honda Road north 1.9 miles and turn right at the brick wall marked 895-897.

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

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 Noa Doitel, Susan Bernhard, Ann Reisenauer, and Maureen Draper for a scenic hike and views of the sun as it sinks beyond the horizon. You'll follow the Charquin Trail to the Alder Spring and Hawk Ridge trail, then head back up to Ridge Trail. On the return trip you’ll follow the Badger’s Byway and Ridge trails back to the parking area, paying special attention to how birds respond to the approaching dusk. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy views of both the ocean and the bay, gaining a vantage point from which to identify Mt. Diablo and other local landmarks. Bring a snack to enjoy while you watch the sun set behind the rolling hills and the ocean. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after August 8 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close August 21st at 2:00 p.m Where to Meet:Meet at the pull out area opposite Russian Ridge Preserve gate RR01, located on Skyline Boulevard 1.2 miles north of Page Mill Road and 6 miles south of Highway 84. 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.Hike one of the peninsula’s iconic peaks while appreciating the twilight on an evening excursion with Docent Naturalists Dave Kocsis, Lindsay Joye, Catherine Xun, and Linda Wegner. You’ll ramble the Canyon Trail and climb the scenic Bella Vista Trail, observing seasonal flora and fauna, then watch the sun set and the full moon rise from Black Mountain’s summit while enjoying the food you brought. You’ll earn extraordinary views of the Santa Clara Valley and Santa Cruz Mountains. This is a strenuous but moderately-paced excursion with a 1,000-foot elevation gain. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after August 13 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close August 26 at 2:00 p.m. Where to Meet:Meet at the Monte Bello Parking Area on Page Mill Road (across from Los Trancos Preserve), 7 miles west of I-280 or 1.5 miles east of Skyline Boulevard. Those traveling from I-280 on Page Mill Rd. should allow approximately 35 minutes travel time.

Join the Environmental Volunteers for a mindful nature journaling walk through the beautiful Palo Alto Baylands.The Art of Noticing: Nature Journaling in the BaylandsLed by our experienced environmental educators, this guided experience introduces the basics of nature observation and journaling while inviting you to slow down, engage your senses, and connect more deeply with the natural world.Along the way, you'll practice simple scientific observation techniques, learn about the plants, wildlife, and environment around you, and capture your discoveries in your nature journal. No artistic experience required! Nature journaling is about curiosity, not perfection.Whether you're looking to spend time outdoors, cultivate mindfulness, or connect with other nature-lovers, this walk offers a welcoming space to pause, reflect, and appreciate the unique beauty of the Baylands. You will observe and learn about the diversity of birds in the marsh, see sweeping views of the Bay, and more! All experience levels are welcome.All journaling and observation materials will be provided.This is a low-impact hike for ages 6 and up. Children under 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.These walks are FREE but space is limited. Advance registration is strongly encouraged.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 programs through over 22,000 student experiences 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.