Witches’ brooms, oak apples, redwood burls, and stem fasciations—do you know what these are and how they are formed? Welcome to the huge and fascinating world of plant galls and other abnormal growth patterns. Come out with Docent Naturalists Frances Reneau and Helena Cohen on this leisurely-paced exploration along the Page Mill and Lost Creek Loop trails to learn how to spot spined turbans, red cones, pink bowties, and yellow wigs hiding in plain sight on some of your favorite plants. Bring a loupe if you have one. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after May 15 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close May 28 at 2:00 p.m.
Meet at the Lower Page Mill Roadside Parking off Page Mill Road. From Highway 280, exit onto Page Mill Road and head west. Follow Page Mill Road for approximately six miles. The parking pullout is on the right. From Skyline Boulevard, turn left on Page Mill Road and travel 2.6 miles to the parking pullout on the left. (Note: If coming from Skyline Blvd., you'll pass the main parking areas for Los Trancos and Monte Bello preserves—keep going another 1.2 miles.)