Tracking and Journaling Elk!

In November, the North Coast Nature Journal Club will go back to Tomales Point for a second chance to see the elk during the tail end of their breeding season! We will have an opportunity to apply some of the tracking skills that we learned in  the last class to the habitat of these 200-500 pound ungulates.  Throughout the trip we will be surrounded by biodiverse coastal prairie, a vast view of the ocean, and scenic coves and cliffs. Can you believe this is available within a few hours drive from San Francisco? We have also seen coyotes lounging, bobcats patrolling,  harrier hawk fly-bys, and cruising peregrines, in addition to fascinating wildflowers and native bees. For the instruction aspect we will focus on how to apply a tracking perspective to add another layer of insight into your nature journaling. There will also be instruction on how to create compelling landscape sketches so be sure to bring your watercolors if you have them.

The weather is variable at this coastal location so wear layers and be prepared for everything. The hiking will be moderately strenuous due to the distances we will try to cover but the terrain will not be too technical. Wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring a folding stool, binoculars, and a potluck item to share on the trail. This location is not scooter friendly.

We will meet at 10 am at the Tomales Point trailhead parking lot at the very end of pierce point road near the old white barns. Look for people standing around with sketchbooks. This excursion will go longer than our usual meetup to take advantage of this special opportunity. 10am-4pm, potluck lunch at 12:30. Check this site the evening before the trip for weather updates. Our rainy day plan is to go to the Bear Valley Visitor center in Point Reyes where there are wonderful displays and covered areas to nature journal.

This trip is limited to 15 people. Email or message me directly to save your spot. Marley339 at gmail.com

$20 suggested donation. No one turned away for lack of funds.