Arise from the couch and head outdoors with NatureOutside!
Connect with nature by joining us for an invigorating hike or learn outdoor skills in one of our many workshops. We offer hikes and outdoor skills workshops in a fun, friendly atmosphere. See the list of hikes, below.
If you would like to schedule a custom hike or workshop for your group or organization, contact us.
To stay informed of upcoming events, subscribe to the NatureOutside Newsletter .
April 2024
Free Event – Castle Rock Falls and Goat Rock!
April 27, 2024 (9:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
Castle Rock State Park, Headquarters
Distance: 5.15 miles Elevation Gain: 1190 feet Level: Moderate
Hike one of the most exciting and scenic trails in the Bay Area. This moderate 5.15 mile loop has 1,190 feet elevation gain and amazing panoramic views. We leave from park headquarters and visit the top of Castle Rock Falls. We continue along a rocky trail with views of the San Lorenzo River Valley and the Pacific Ocean. At Castle Rock Trail Camp, we enjoy a relaxing lunch. On our way back to headquarters, we pass Goat Rock with its breathtaking vista.
This hike is rated “moderate” because hikers need to step onto rocks, balance, and scramble over rocks. Hikers should be comfortable with their sense of balance.
Bring at least one liter of water, lunch, snacks, and appropriate clothing. Rain cancels. Meet at Park Headquarters.
Free Event – No registration required – Just show up!
May 2024
Trip to the Tafoni Hike!
May 4, 2024 (9:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
El Corte de Madera Creek Preserve
Distance: 4.7 miles Elevation Gain: 796 feet Level: Easy
Counts Toward Free T-shirt
Let’s hike to the Tafoni! Tafoni are unique sandstone rock formations that create dramatic lace-like webs and honeycomb-like caves.
Our hike takes us through the deep forests of El Corte de Madera Creek Preserve. We follow a winding stream through redwood forest where we look for amazing amphibians native to the Santa Cruz Mountains. After passing bubbling cascades, we reach the tafoni. We explore the tafone and learn about their unique geology.
Afterwards, we near the site of one of the worst air disasters in US history. We visit a memorial to the fateful flight and learn the story of that tragic day. We enjoy a picnic lunch at an overlook once used to land rescue helicopters searching for the missing plane. Afterward, we return to the trailhead through mixed oak forest.
Bring at least one liter of water, lunch, snacks, and appropriate clothing. This hike runs rain or shine. The meeting place is sent to participants after registration. You must be at least 12 years of age to participate.
Mother’s Day Wildflower and Winery Hike!
May 12, 2024 (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Picchetti Ranch Preserve (Cupertino, CA)
Distance: 4.5 miles Elevation Gain: 536 feet Level: Easy
Counts Toward Free T-Shirt
If you are a mother, or you have a mother, this is the hike for you! Celebrate Mother’s Day in nature as we view a dazzling variety of seasonal wildflowers.
We explore Picchetti Ranch Preserve as we wander through rolling grasslands and stream-crossed forests. As we hike, we’ll keep an eye out for wildlife and learn about the family histories of several native species.
Our hike ends at Picchetti Winery, built in the 1800’s. Bring your lunch to enjoy with the group at the shaded picnic tables. Afterwards, explore the winery and their tasting room.
Bring at least one liter of water, lunch, snacks, and appropriate clothing. This hike runs rain or shine. The meeting place is sent to participants after registration. You must be at least 12 years of age to participate.
Join the NatureOutside Newsletter to Stay Informed
Receive NatureOutside’s monthly Email, “The NatureOutside Newsletter.” You will learn about:
ο Outdoor activities, workshops and lectures in Northern California
ο Free giveaways to members of our Email list
ο New articles appearing on this site
You can unsubscribe from the newsletter at any time.
Subscribe to the NatureOutside Newsletter .
