Head to a creek and climb a peak with Docent Naturalists Martin Manley, Dave Kocsis, and Linda Smith on a moderately-paced trek to escape the valley heat and experience the interesting geology and plants of this biodiverse preserve. You’ll enjoy a view of the San Andreas Fault and discuss the effects that tectonic activity has had on this landscape. Your route will descend the shaded canyon of Stevens Creek—the real creek, not the car dealership district—to see riparian wildflowers and look for newts. A climb to the summit of Black Mountain will offer a fabulous view over a wide swath of the peninsula. Bring a lunch for a break at the top.
Meet at the Monte Bello Parking Area on Page Mill Road (across from Los Trancos Preserve), 7 miles west of I-280 or 1.5 miles east of Skyline Boulevard. Those traveling from I-280 on Page Mill Rd. should allow approximately 35 minutes travel time.