11/1/2024    Ishxenta SP

Discovering Connections – Birding and Culture in the San Jose Creek Natural Preserve

Join us for a celebration of Native American Heritage Month as we explore the diverse habitats and cultural significance of this special park named for the Rumsen village Ishxenta. Birders (and everyone else) are welcome on this hike along the vibrant San Jose Creek trail within Ishxenta State Park. Coast chaparral, Monterey Pine Forest, and riparian habitats create an exceptional birding experience at this site! This easy-paced, two-mile round-trip hike affords multiple opportunities for observation of plants, wildlife, and BIRDS. Expect to see hummingbirds, raptors, warblers, sparrows and quail, and learn connections between birds and local Indigenous culture. 

Check out past bird sightings on eBird here: https://ebird.org/hotspot/L9077959

California State Park interpreters will lead participants along a designated trail with terrain that is mostly flat with some moderate incline along the way. The trail surface is hardpacked but uneven, winding through both sunny and shaded areas. There are no benches or other seating along the way. Potential hazards include poison oak and ticks. Participants are encouraged to wear long pants, bring hats, water, and their own binoculars. There are a few sets of binoculars available to borrow if you do not have your own.

Time: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Leaders: California State Parks Interpretive Staff – Amanda Preece and Violet Smith

Meet: Marathon Flats Parking, adjacent to the Crossroads Safeway parking lot (Check-in with State Park Staff required); Vanpool to Ishxenta State Park. Ages 10 or above. Car seats not permitted in van.

Tickets: Free! Limited space available. Registration required. Email montereydistrict.tribal@parks.ca.gov to reserve your spot. 

Rain or severe weather will cancel.