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.
Beavers at the Oceano Lagoon Learn how an unexpected resident rodent of the lagoon has managed to survive here. Meet at the Nature Center at the entrance to the Oceano Campground, Pismo State Beach. (*M) 1 mi., 1 hr.
Bird For a Day A fun family program where kids will learn about birds' adaptations like feathers, feet, colors & breaks. Use tools to acquire food the way a bird does.Limited to 24 kids 7 to 12 years old, with an adult. Meet at campfire center of Morro Bay State Park Campground (E) 1.5 hr.
Birding Multiple Habitats Observe birds on a short hike along the seashore, creek, wetlands, chaparral and pine forest habitats. Suitable for birders with all levels of experience. Meet in the Washburn day use parking lot north of Cambria on the east side of Hwy 1 just south of San Simeon Creek. (*M) 2 mi., 3 hrs.
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.
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.
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.
Coon Creek Hike On this vigorous hike, enjoy great exercise, spectacular creek and canyon views. Explore the riparian landscape along Coon Creek and see a variety of wild flowers,berries, shrubs, and trees.Wear sturdy shoes, bring water and snack. Meet in Montana de Oro State Park at the end of Pecho Road in the Coon Creek parking lot. (H) (S)4.7 mi., 2.5 hr.
Day at Grandpa's Farm Come to the picnic area of Morro Bay State Park Campground to milk a cow, and cut wood to cook over an open fire. When the chores are done there will be games like sack races, hoops and clothes pins in a bottle and other old favorites. For kids from 7 to 12 with an adult. (E) 1.5 hr.
Digital Camera Workshop Designed to help beginners who have had problems trying to operate their digital cameras, this is a non-technical workshop.We will focus on using the basic features of a digital camera such as mode settings, and much more. There will be a lunch break. (T) 4 hrs.
Digital Photo Walk (Valencia Peak) Bring your point-and-shoot or SLR digital camera. All photographic skill levels are welcome. Experienced docent photographers will help you improve your outdoor and nature photography skills. Meet at the bluff parking area 300' South of the Ranch House in Montaņa de Oro. Wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes, bring water and snack. 1347' elevation gain. . See photomorrobay.com for more information. (S) 3.7 mi., 3 hrs
Digital Photo Workshop A digital photo workshop on how to photograph insects in their environment to be presented in the auditorium of Morro Bay Natural HIstory Museum. Bring a digital camera, macro lens, tripod, flash and accessories to learn the techniques used to achive stunning macro and close-up images. See photmorrobay.com for more info. (T), 2 hrs
Discover Hidden Life in the Estuary Learn about some of our planet's most fascinating, seldom seen lifeforms. Meet at the Coast Guard Morro Bay parking lot,across from the power plant. We'll lower a special net into the water from the nearby pier, and collect a water sample loaded with microscopic plankton. Then we'll caravan to the Morro Bay Museum of Natural History where we'll use a videomicroscope to take a look at the life that exists in a single drop of our water sample. (E) (T) 2 hrs.
Discover Magnificent Morro Rock Explore the beauty of Morro Rock and learn about its geology and history and the animals that live on and near the rock. Meet at the rest rooms in the parking lot in front of the rock. (E) .5mi., 1-1.5hr.
Discover Treasures of Montaņa de Oro, Part 1 Tour the Spooner Ranch House and Holloway Garden. Meet in Parking lot of Spooner Ranch House. (E) 1 hr.
Discover Treasures of Montaņa de Oro, Part 2 Meet at the Bluff Trail Head, across form the Holloway Garden, to enjoy the plant, bird and marine life on this picturesque trail. We will end at Coralina Cove. (M) 1.5 miles, 1.5 hours.
Fine Feathered Friends Come and hear stories from many cultures about your favorite fine feathered friends. These stories are appropriate for all ages and generations to illustrate the passing down of culture from numerous ethnic groups. Meet at the Morro Bay State Park amphitheater. (T) 1 hr.
Great Blue Herons, Egrets and Other Rookery Wonders Enjoy a short talk about Great Blue Herons,Great and Snowy Egrets, Black Crowned Night Herons and other residents at the rookery in Morro Bay State Park. Walk to the site to observe these magnificent birds. Learn about courtship rituals, nesting habits, and in spring, see adults caring for their young. Meet in the Learning Center at Morro Bay Museum. (E) 1/4 mi., 1.5 hr.
Intertidal Life at Hazard Reef Walk through coastal scrub and sand dunes to the beach to see seaweeds and marine animals. Meet 1.6 mile south of Moņtana de Oro State Park entrance sign. Wear non-skid shoes that can get wet. (A) 2 mi., 3 hr.
Let's Talk Turtles Learn about our planet's oldest inhabitants and their threatened existence. Will they go the way of the dinosaur? Turtles welcome, but must be in a box or container. Meet at the Nature Center in Oceano Campground, Pismo State Beach. (T) 1 hr.
Living History at the Spooner Ranch House Learn about the fascinating history of Pecho Ranch & its inhabitants. Visit with charming Victorian Era women in the "Parlor" at the Spooner Ranch House in Montaņa de Oro State Park. (T) 2 hr.
Los Osos Oaks Reserve Enjoy a shaded stroll through ancient forest. See native plants and evidence of Chumash habitation. Learn colorful historical background. Meet at Reserve entrance, 0.7 miles east of South Bay Blvd. on Los Osos Valley Road. (*E) 1 mi., 1.5 hr.
Lunchtime Look See at the Rookery View the progressive stages of our local heron and cormorant seven-month mating season. Watch the current mating and courtship of great blue and other herons, and continue as nesting and egg laying (April) hatching (May) raising the young (June/July) feldgling first flights (July) and the display of juveniles into young adulthood. Bring binoculars if you have them. Scope provided. Park in the convenient lot between the museum/beach and the North State Park Entrance, or take the 10 minute active walk from the museum to meet the group. (E) ADA accessible.3/4 hr.
Montaņa de Oro Bluff Nature Walk Take a pleasant hike along the Bluff Trail for magnificent views and see a variety of birds, plants and sea life. Binoculars helpful. Meet at Bluff Trailhead, 200 yards south of Visitor Center at Montaņa de Oro State Park. (*A) 2.5 mi., 2 hr.
Native Plant Gardens & Oceano Lagoon Become acquainted with native plants of our county and Pismo State Beach on a stroll by the native plant gardens. Enjoy the beauty of Oceano Lagoon and learn about its flora and fauna. Meet at the Nature Center at the entrance to the Oceano Campground, Pismo State Beach. (M) 1.5 mi., 2 hr.
Nature's 7 in 1 Spectacular Take a walk through seven distinct habitats in one unique, integrated ecosystem. View the beauty of wetlands, riparian forest, coastal scrub, grassland, pine forest, marine estuary & vernal pool and their effect on the plants and animal life there. Meet in Washburn day use parking lot north of Cambria on the east side of Hwy 1 just south of San Simeon Creek. (*A) 3.5mi., 2.5 hr.
Oceano Lagoon Explore the tranquil surroundings of the lagoon. Learn about the plants and animals found there. Meet at Oceano campground entrance station, Pismo State Beach. (*E) 1.5 mi., 2 hr.
Pecho Ranch Day 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Spinning, quilting, stitchery, whittling, flint-knapping demonstrations. Grandpa's Farm. Home baked bread and preserves. Victorian characters. History walk at 1:00. Spooner Ranch House, Montana de Oro State Park. Free - 534-9916 (?)
Plant of the Month Club - Coon Creek Berry Hunt Spring and summer flowers fade away, leaving colorful berries: some tasty, some medicinal, and some just plain poison. Meet in Montana de Oro State Park at the end of Pecho Road in Coon Creek parking lot. Bring water and wear sturdy walking shoes. (*M) 3-5mi., 2-3 hr.
Plant of the Month Club - Wooly Blue Stars Explore the old dunes to find the brilliant blue flowers of the summer stars. Views of Hollister Peak and other morros. Meet in the soccer field parking lot at the South end of Los Osos Middle School. From South Bay Blvd. turn East on Pismo St. into the parking lot. (M) 1.5 miles, 1.5 hours
San Simeon History Join our "Docents at the Pier"between 11am and 1pm and travel throught time as we explore the diverse history and uses of San Simeon Cove. Meet at the Coastal Discovery Center at W.R Hearst State Beach. (T)
Sand Spit Walk Examine dune plants. Enjoy the beauty of the surf and look at whatever has washed in. Watch birds feed and consider their adaptations for contact with a cold salty environment. Bring lunch, water and binoculars. Meet in Montaņa de Oro State Park in the Sand Spit Parking Lot. Turn right on paved road 0.8 miles from park entrance. 9 miles, 4.5 hours (A) 9 miles, 4.5 hours
Sketch Walk (Morro View) Walk through coastal dune scrub at the foot of the morros. Enjoy views of Hollister Peak and Cerro Cabrillo, stopping to draw the plants or the landscape. No drawing experience necessary. Meet in the soccer field parking lot at the South end of Los Osos Middle School. From South Bay Blvd. turn East on Pismo St. into the parking lot. (M) 1.5 miles, 2.5 hours.
Sketch Walk (Point Buchon) Explore the new Point Buchon Trail along the bluffs south of Montana de Oro, stopping to draw the rocky shore. No drawing experience necessary. Bring a pad of drawing paper, colored pencils, watercolors or pastels, and some water to drink. Meet in Montana de Oro State Park at the end of the Pecho Road in the Coon Creek parking lot. (M) 1 - 2 miles, 2.5 hours
Southern Route to Valencia Peak Enjoy coastal and mountain vistas of the southern area of the park enroute to Valencia Peak. Deep ravines and sharp ridges tell a geologic history of uplift and erosion. Seasonal wildflowers and sheltered clusters of coastal live oak punctuate the coastal scrub community. Meet at the Coon Creek parking lot at the south end of Montaņa de Oro State Park. Bring water, lunch and binoculars. Wear hiking boots. (*S) 4 mi., 4 hr.
White's Point Vistas Enjoy a short, but steep walk to view the estuary and learn about the forces that have created this watery world that serves as home to hundreds of marine and terrestrial animals. Learn why in the past century the estuary has lost 25 percent. Dress for wind. Meet at Morro Bay Natural History Museum entrance. (M) 1/2mi., 3/4 hr.
Written on the Land This walk looks at animal signs including tracks, scat, burrows and other indicators. Wear walking soes and a hat. Bring water. Meet at Coon Creek parking lot (A) 2.5 mi., 2 hrs.