Nature Walks at the Gardens

Explore the Gardens' natural history and learn to think like a naturalist! Join MCBG Horticulturist Paul Ruiz-Lopez on a nature walk through the horticultural and natural areas of the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. The main focus of each walk will vary by season. Plants will be the primary focus of observation and discussion, but we will also monitor for animals such as birds, marine mammals, insects, amphibians, and more. The idea is to highlight the prominent “phenomenon” that is occurring in our garden and natural areas.
These walks are free with the cost of regular Gardens admission, and just plain free for current MCBG Members. Most of the walk takes place on accessible main trails made of hard-packed, fine gravel, approximately four feet wide. Optional off-trail wandering may include uneven terrain. Please contact administration@gardenbythesea.org with any accessibility questions.
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Conifers of MCBG – March 14 or 28
An introduction to conifer natural history and identification, featuring a guided overview of the MCBG conifer collection. The tour includes both native and exotic species, with special attention to rare and endangered conifers.
What to bring: Hand lens, journal, and pencil
Terrain: Mostly on main trails with some optional off-trail wandering.
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Spring Coastal Wildflowers – May 9
A guided observational walk highlighting local and native spring wildflowers of the coastal bluffs and mixed conifer riparian forest. The walk emphasizes identification of common native species, with attention to several rare species as well.
What to bring: Journal and pencil, hand lens, field guides, and smartphone with iNaturalist app
Terrain: Main trails and off-trail walking in the grass prairies.

Local Bees – September 5 or 19
An introduction to the natural history and basic identification of local, common bee families and genera. The program emphasizes how to observe bees in garden and wild settings and how to distinguish bees from flies and wasps. The first half is a lecture, followed by a guided field walk for observation.
What to bring: Hand lens, journal, pencil, an insect net if available, and your smartphone with iNaturalist app
Terrain: Main trails and off-trail walking in the grass prairies and garden beds
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