April 26 Plant Walk – Gerstle Cove to Stump Beach Spring Wildflowers

Sunday April 26, 10:00 – 2:30 pm
Leader: Ann Howald
Lower Gerstle Cove parking lot, Salt Point State Park
Register on Eventbrite

There has been rain and there will be flowers on the coastal bluffs at Stump Beach! Last year’s display was spectacular and maybe we will have a repeat. Displays of wildflowers, ferns, flowering shrubs, a rare Ceanothus, Bishop pines (Pinus muricata), a few stunted grand fir trees (Abies grandis), and tafoni – a geologic formation of mysterious origin.

Meet at the lower Gerstle Cove parking lot, which is at the end of the paved road accessed through the Gerstle Cove Campground entrance. The parking fee is $10 ($9 for seniors); no fee if you have a CA State Parks Pass. Note: Be prepared for multiple construction zones along the route. These can result in delays of up to 30 minutes.

Easy hiking on more or less flat trails, although some wet, muddy spots are likely; about 2 miles total, unless you decide to go further than the group. Hiking poles could be useful. Bring snacks, lunch, water, hat, sunscreen, hiking boots recommended, and be prepared for possible chilly breezes up on the bluff. Dogs are not allowed in this state park. Heavy rain cancels. Contact Ann with questions: annhowald@vom.com (preferred) or 707-721-6120. There is now cell service in the Gerstle Cove area, maybe elsewhere in the park.

Please register on Eventbrite, or send an email to Lynn at milobakerevents@gmail.com to sign up.

For a complete list of our plant walks, see our Plant Walk page.