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

Winter Fungal Walk

Sunday, February 22, 2026
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Long Ridge Preserve
Approximate Total Miles
5

Explore the secret, fascinating, and often overlooked world of fungi with Docent Naturalists Jianfei Hu, Catherine Xun, Mari Aldridge, and Casey Litton on a moderately-paced hike along the Peters Creek and Long Ridge trails. You’ll learn how fungi are both nature's recyclers and networkers, connecting dozens of other species underground. Come out to the wintertime forest for a chance to discover the amazing diversity of the fungi kingdom! (Note: This is a learning-focused walk, not a foraging expedition. The intent is to observe, appreciate, and understand these organisms in their natural habitat. No collecting of any kind is permitted on Midpen or other protected lands.) Bring a snack or lunch. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after February 8 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) and close February 20 at 2:00 p.m.

Where to Meet

Meet at Peters Creek Roadside Parking, on the west side of Skyline Boulevard, 3.6 miles north of Highway 9 or 3.3 miles south of Page Mill Road.  If you are coming from the north on Skyline Blvd., the pullout is just past Portola Heights Road on the right.  From the south, the pullout is near the Palo Alto city limits sign on the right. There is additional parking across Skyline Blvd. at the Grizzly Flat trailhead (Santa Clara County Park).

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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