The staff and docents at Calaveras Big Trees have expanded their guided walk program.
In the past, guided walks have been only offered in the summer season, but with the help of enthusiastic docents, the walks are now available on Saturdays at 1 p.m. year-round. The North Grove at Big Trees provides different opportunities for learning and recreation during each season, with brilliant fall colors, the quiet beauty of winter snow and dogwood blossoms in the spring.
Interested visitors should meet their guide near the Warming Hut in the North Grove parking lot no later than 1 p.m. The walks last one and a half to two hours and depending on seasonal conditions, the guides may lead participants through the North Grove or possibly other nearby locations.
Visitors are reminded to be prepared for weather conditions; depending on those conditions, bring or use our snowshoes or your own cross country skis in the winter, a rain jacket in the fall or spring and waterproof boots and gloves. Snacks and water should also accompany walkers.
The park entrance is $8 per vehicle ($7 for seniors). Call ahead for more information at 795-2334 or 795-7980.
*Junior Cub, Junior Ranger, Campfires and Meadow Walk are all about one hour in length. The North Grove Guided Walk and Creek Critter program are about 2 hours.
Schedule subject to change .
Jr. Cubs: For 3-6 year-olds. Join Docent Pat to find out “What’s Up There?” Learn about the amazing Sequoia Tree, who visits it and who makes it their home. Enjoy a craft and possibly take a short walk to a live tree. You must be accompanied by an adult.
Jr. Rangers: For 7-12 year-olds. Learn about a scaly critter with Interpreter Jayne. Make a clay lizard and learn some amazing facts about reptiles.
Walk through the majestic North Grove of Giant Sequoias with Interpreter Jayne as your guide. Meet in front of the Visitor Center. Bring Water. About 2 hours.
Enjoy songs and some information about one of the night-time visitors at the park. Bring your own marshmallows and sticks.
Jr. Cubs: For 3-6 year-olds. Join Docent Pat and learn about butterfly lifecycles. Activities and an art project. You must be accompanied by an adult.
Jr. Rangers: For 7-12 year-olds. Join Interpreter Liz to learn all about owls. Learn how and what owls eat.
Discover the secrets of an ever-changing mountain wet meadow with Docent Steve. Meet in front of the Visitor Center. Bring water. 2 hours
Walk through the majestic North Grove of Giant Sequoias on the flat North Grove Trail with Interpreter Liz as your guide. Bring water. About 2 hours.
Join Ranger Robertson for an informative evening about bears. You will learn about bears and their role in Native American culture as well as what you can do to keep them wild. Enjoy songs and stories too! Don’t forget your marshmallows and sticks.
Jr. Cubs: For 3-6 year-olds. Meet with Docent Betty to learn all about reptiles. Enjoy a story, activity and an art project. You must be accompanied by an adult.
Jr. Rangers: For 7-12 year-olds. JJoin Interpreter Jayne to learn how nature recycles our planet’s water.
Walk through the majestic North Grove of Giant Sequoias on the flat North Grove Trail with Interpreter Jayne as your guide. Bring water. About 2 hours.