Celebrate the new year and experience the natural sounds, sights, smells, and colors of winter. As we hike up Mitchell Canyon, we’ll see mistletoe, Christmas berry, ghost pine, and sneak a peek on that amorous couple, Freddy Fungus and Alice Algae. We’ll ponder how climate change has affected the flora and fauna we encounter as well as what the future holds for Mount Diablo and the Bay Area.

TOTAL DISTANCE
This an easy to moderate 4-mile hike with a few hundred feet in elevation change.

LEADER
Liz Watson

WEATHER POLICY
Rain cancels.

COST
$6 per vehicle park entrance fee ($5 for seniors); exact cash required.

WHERE TO MEET
We’ll assemble at the Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center. There are restrooms and a water fountain near our meeting spot.

NOTES
Bring water, snacks, dress in layers, and wear good hiking shoes. Bring poles if you normally use them. If you have questions about this outing email Ken Lavin or phone (415) 543-6771 x321.

Photo: Miguel Vieira via Flickr