DKY Conservation Chair, Botanist and Coastal Plant Ecologist
Topic: A Virtual Field Trip to South Manchester Beach
and Garcia River Marshlands
Link to Peters Presentation in PDF format.
Peter's Zoom Video Zoom Recording has some rough patches in the beginning but stay with it for Peters wonderful Virtual Field Trip to South Mancheaster Beach and the Garcia River Marshlands.
For More Information about the event and Peter Baye see the January-March Newsletter
Outings are open to everyone, not just members. All levels of expertise, from beginners to experienced botanizers, are welcome. Walks begin at 10 a.m., unless otherwise noted. You will be required to sign a Release of Liability Form to attend the outing. Check our Facebook Page and the DKY CNPS Chapter Activities/Events web page for announcements. Check Back to find out when and where The 2026 Field Trips are Happening.
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. There is now cell service in the Gerstle Cove area, maybe elsewhere in the park.