Hikers in Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve / photo by Lanette Otvos

Winter Blooms

Friday, February 20, 2026
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Coal Creek Preserve
Approximate Total Miles
5

What might you find blooming this winter? Pacific Hound’s Tongue? Giant Wakerobin? Hillside Gooseberry? Discover the colors of winter on a moderately-paced hike with Docent Naturalists Bobbie Riedel, Catherine Xun, and Emma Finter. The morning begins along the White Oak Trail in Monte Bello Preserve before crossing into the smaller Coal Creek Preserve to explore mixed evergreen woodlands along the Alpine Road and Crazy Pete’s Road trails. You'll learn about some of the native plants that shine in winter, as well as stop at a small but lovely waterfall before returning to the parking area.

Where to Meet

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.

To ensure your experience on a docent naturalist outing is enjoyable please review these activity guidelines.

For more information about trail characteristics for this event, check out the Midpen Trail Explorer app. To learn more about ADA accommodations for events, or make an inquiry with the ADA coordinator, visit our Accessibility page.

If your activity requires registration, please be sure to cancel your reservation (from your confirmation email) if you are no longer able to attend so others can participate.

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