Rancho del Oso Guided Hikes, Talks, & Events

Please note:  Rancho del Oso is located 17 miles north of Santa Cruz on Highway One. To find the ranger station, go a half-mile in from the green gate entrance directly across the street from Waddell Beach.  To get to the Rancho del Oso Nature and History Center: follow the dirt road in from the south side of Waddell Creek Bridge where you see the sign for Rancho Del Oso Nature and History Center.  From Half Moon Bay take Highway One south 30 miles.

MAY ACTIVITIES AT RANCHO DEL OSO NATURE AND HISTORY CENTER

Rancho del Oso Nature and History Center
Located 17 miles north of Santa Cruz off highway 1 (831) 427-2288

From Santa Cruz, turn right just before the Waddell Creek Bridge at the sign for Rancho Del Oso Nature and History Center. From Half Moon Bay take Highway One south 30 miles and turn left after the Waddell Creek Bridge (2.6 miles south of Año Nuevo State Reserve).

Wildflower Hike
Sunday, May 12, 2013 at 10:00 am
Want to explore the variety of wildflowers in Rancho del Oso?  Within Rancho del Oso's seven different habitats, there are easily over 50 species of flowers you can view in a day.  This hike is great for photographers who want to go slowly and take photos.  Please wear sturdy shoes, bring a lunch and drinking water.  Docent Scott Peden will lead this 4.5 mile hike that begins at the Nature and History Center.

Fireside Stories
Sunday, May 12 at 2:00 pm
Pretend, play, sing and explore! Bring the family and gather round the fireplace together at the Nature and History Center for a story followed by activities focused on the theme of the story. This 30-minute program will introduce youngsters (recommend children be at least 3) to the wonders of nature! 
  
Berry Creek Falls Hike
Sunday, May 26 at 10:00 am
Join in the fun for an all-day hike to Berry Creek Falls.  Hiking from the Ranger Station to the three gorgeous waterfalls is an all-day affair so bring lunch, water and energy.  The hike is 7 miles each way over moderately easy trail except for the uphill around the 3 sets of gorgeous waterfalls. Please wear good hiking shoes for the 14-mile trek.  Arrive early at the Hwy 1 gate across from Waddell Beach, and then walk in approximately 1 mile to the ranger station to meet your guide at 10:00a.m. at the Ranger Station. Call to RSVP - (831) 427-2288 or (831)425-1218 - or just show up!

Events made possible by California State Park Docents, California State Parks and Waddell Creek Association