Nature Lovers Day Trip

Date and Time: Friday November 15, 2024 from 8:15 AM (departure) to 5:00 PM (return)
Meeting Location: Saratoga CA 95070
Fee: $140 per person for Premium Members, $150 per person for Basic Members and $160 per person for non–members. Fee includes transportation, lunch, activities, gratuities and two tour leaders.

How to Register: Space is limited so reserve your spot early! Please register using the REGISTER button at the bottom of the page.
If you have any questions, please email us at share@bayareaolderadults.org

ITINERARY

Brilliant Monarch Butterlies

On this full day trip, we begin our day with an introduction to the amazing monarch butterfly from an environmental scientist, California naturalist and soon to be author of a book on Monarch anatomy and life cycle identification. Using a telescope, we will see and learn about the butterflies clustering in the eucalyptus trees at Natural Bridges State Park. Male (L) and Female (R) Monarch Butterfly, photos by Tara Johnson

We will learn about their epic migration, what they go through to get to Natural Bridges every fall, their relationship to milkweed, and everything you ever wanted to know about this iconic butterfly. There will be time to visit the visitor center exhibits and shop. Monarch Butterfly Roost (Cluster), photo by Tara Johnson

Yin & Yang Thai Lunch

Did you know that Thai cuisine reflects the philosophy of yin and yang, where contrasting elements come together to create a whole? Our next stop is a delicious Thai lunch with vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Tidepool Exploration

Next we visit Natural Bridges State Beach, a protected marine area, at low tide. Our expert will help us to identify creatures such as Black Turban Snails and Shore Crabs as they search mussel- and barnacle- covered rock crevices for food. Everyone will get a tidepool bingo card - who will be the first winner? Black Oystercatcher & Owl Limpet, photos by Tara Johnson

We will have an hour to leisurely explore the rocks for Ochre Sea Stars, Purple Urchins, Sea Brush, Owl Limpets, Acorn Barnacles, Aggregating Anemones and more! We may see Black Oystercatchers feeding on the rocks, Brown Pelicans flying overhead and Conspicuous Chiton sunning themselves on the beach. Anemones & Ochre Sea Star, photos by Tara Johnson

Please click the registration button below to register for the day trip.