Spring has sprung! And with the new sunny, warm days, the forest comes alive with activity! Young lizards are basking out on the chaparral outcroppings, adult newts are on the move under the redwoods to find their birth ponds and streams , a snake or two will be hunting under the oaks for lunch, and even the shy salamanders might come out for a walk in a warm, rainy day. Join us for a hike as we try to spot some of these amazing critters while we explore one of Santa Cruz county’s best hidden gems, right in South county, next to Corralitos and Watsonville!
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Price
General: $25
Members: $5 off
About the Speaker
Gus Porras-Center began taking care of the Byrne-Milliron Forest in February 2025, after a decade of being a lab scientist studying how very tiny worms make decisions (to shimmy one way or another!). He has loved every scaly, slimy creature since before he could say a single word, and he cannot stop himself from sharing what he has learned about them to anyone and everyone that will listen!
What to Expect
- Dress in comfortable layers, long pants and comfortable, closed-toe shoes (no flip-flops or sandals).
- Portable toilet present in main parking lot.
- The planned hike will take us through some of the easier trails, but all Byrne trails are considered “moderate” intensity and contain long uphill segments.
The Byrne-Milliron Forest is 400-acre property conserved and protected by the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County for forest restoration, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest. Public access includes 10 miles of dog-friendly trails. The Land Trust is supported by members and donors. Visit their website to learn how to get involved: https://landtrustsantacruz.org/