Mt. Tam has many microclimates, and its location near the convergence of several different ecoregions (North Coast, South Coast, Central Valley) supports a wide diversity of plant communities. Rock Springs is a great place to explore mixed evergreen forests, grasslands, riparian forests, and serpentine barrens. We’ll meander through these plant communities, discussing and identifying some of the plants and ecological processes that characterize them. Our walk may cover up to 1.5 miles, and you might want hiking poles for several short rocky/steep/off trail sections.
David Edelson is an amateur naturalist. He retired from a career focused on environmental advocacy and land conservation, most recently with The Nature Conservancy. He has led field trips for local chapters of the California Native Plant Society as well as Marin Audubon Society and Golden Gate Bird Alliance. He is a graduate of the California Academy of Science’s Master Bird Program and of the docent training program at the Regional Parks Botanic Garden.
GENERAL THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT SCIENCE QUEST EVENTS
CAPACITY: Only RSVP if you are able to attend. Most events have limited capacity - No Shows will likely prevent someone else from attending.
PARKING: We strongly recommend carpooling and arriving at least 30 minutes early to locate parking. Pantoll, Bootjack, and East Peak require a $8 fee - bring exact change! You can also pay through the Yodel app (https://www.yodelpass.com) . The Quarry Parking lot (just past Mountain Theater towards East Peak) is an option if Rock Spring Parking lot is full. Pantoll parking is very limited – BootJack sometimes will have open spots. Bus service schedule is available at https://marintransit.org/routes/61.
FAMILIES: Hikes are suitable for families with children who are interested in nature and are comfortable hiking 2-4 miles. "Kid Friendly" events have no age limit.
DURATION: Each timed event is scheduled to last no more than 2 hours (except Astronomy).
CANCELLATIONS: Rain, red flag days, winds above 30 mph, and unforeseen circumstances will cancel. Check the Friends of Mt Tam Facebook for updates: https://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfMtTam
WATER: Bring your own water. Most hikes do not pass by public drinking water sources.
CLOTHES: Weather on Mt Tam can be very unpredictable and can change quickly. Dressing in layers is recommended.
STURDY BOOTS: Trails are uneven, rocky and can be very steep in places. Sandals, sneakers, and running shoes are not recommended for hikes.
EQUIPMENT: Many events are enhanced with Binoculars (Birding, East Peak Fire Lookout, etc.). Lichen hike recommends bringing a magnifying glass.For presentations at Pantoll, bring a folding chair.
Dogs(except for service animals) are not allowed
Public Restrooms: Available at East Peak, Rock Spring, Bootjack, Mountain Home, and Pantoll.
