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ACTIVITY CALENDAR
Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Associaton
P O BOX 310, Borrego Springs, CA 92004 760-767-3098
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Important Program
Information
Unless
specified otherwise in the activity descriptions below, all hikes and
field trips have a
15 person limit and they begin in the
ABDNHA parking lot.
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Oct. 9, Wed., 8:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
4WD Tour:
Toro Peak Adventure
Trip Leader: Jim Torian, ABDNHA
Volunteer
Our journey will take us to 8,300 feet
on the top of Toro Peak, where we will take in the
expansive views of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park,
Salton Sea, Coachella Valley and beyond. We will meet at
8:45 a.m. in Mountain Center, Riverside County at the
intersection of State Routes 371 and 74 at the Paradise
Valley Café parking lot (it opens @ 8:00 a.m.). We will
depart for the Santa Rosa Road trailhead at 9:00 a.m. We
begin our ascent at 4,600 feet and wind our way up 12.5
miles of the one-lane service road through thick
shrubland that gives way to tall pines at the higher
elevations. Steep drop-offs along the drive offer
impressive views of Anza and the surrounding area. There
are numerous campsites and a pit toilet enroute. At the
top, there are rock outcroppings within a moderate
200-300-yard hike that offer a bird’s eye view below. A
BYO lunch is planned at the top. Dry road conditions are
good, but some areas will require 4WD and high
clearance. Bring a full tank of fuel. Hiking poles are
recommended. Please check the weather and dress
accordingly for the high-altitude temperatures. GMRS Ch.
16 optional. The trip ends at about 1:30 p.m. at CA
State Route 74. Limit 8 4WD vehicles. This trip is
weather-dependent. No charge. Register at the Nature
Center or call 760-767-3098.
Oct. 9, Wed.,
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Webinar: Online Geology Book
Discussion
A Brief History of Earth – Session 1 of 4
Presented by Geoscience Educator Don Barrie
Please join geoscience educator and ABDNHA Board Member
Don Barrie for a zoom-based discussion of the book, A
Brief History of Earth, by Andrew Knoll. This book is
available at the ABDNHA Nature Center and our online
store at www.abdnha.org/store. Harvard geologist
Andrew Knoll has written a concise and accessible book
about Earth's history, which Booklist describes as "a
sublime chronicle of our planet." In eight chapters (230
pages), Dr. Knoll covers the highlights of our planet's
4.5-billion-year history, beginning with Earth's origin
and ending with a discussion of how humans are
transforming the planet. He explains the key processes
that have enabled Earth to evolve from a lifeless ball
of rock into a varied, blue-green orb with continents,
oceans, an atmosphere and biological life. During each
meeting, participants will have an opportunity to share
their thoughts about what they're learning. Don will
moderate the discussion and also present a weekly
PowerPoint presentation seeking to clarify the science
behind Dr. Knoll's discussion points. Hope you can join
us! No charge, but donations are greatly appreciated in
support of ABDNHA’s programs.
Online Registration is required.
Oct. 16, Wed., 7:00 p.m. – 8:30
p.m.
Webinar: Online Geology Book Discussion,
A
Brief History of Earth – Session 2 of 4
Presented by Geoscience educator Don Barrie See Oct. 9
for details.
Online Registration is required.
Oct. 18, Fri., 7:30 p.m. –
10:00 p.m.
Full Moon Walk: South Palm Wash
Leader: Mike McElhatton, ABDNHA Education Director
Join ABDNHA’s Program Director Mike McElhatton as we
begin our 15th year of offering the Full Moon Walk in
South Palm Wash. Experience the unique and serene beauty
of moonlight on the canyon walls as we take a 1.5-mile
walk through South Palm Wash. Most of this is an easy
walk, although there are a few moderate areas that
require “big steps” up short inclines. We meet at the
ABDNHA office and carpool from there. A flashlight,
water, and good hiking shoes are required. Space is
limited to 22. Activity cancels with thick cloud cover
or high wind. No charge. Call the Nature Center at
760-767-3098 to reserve.
Oct. 19, Sat.,
9:00 a.m.,
Borrego Days Parade and Festival
Borrego’s official opening of the desert season.
Please stop by our booth at Christmas Circle on Saturday
or Sunday.
Oct. 23, Wed., 2:00 p.m.
Borrego Rock and Gem (BRAG) Club Meeting
First
meeting of the season.
Join us to find out more.
Repeats 4th Wed. of the month through April. Meet at
ABDNHA Library. Oct. 23, Wed., 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Online Geology Book Discussion, A Brief History of Earth
– Session 3 of 4 Presented by Geoscience Educator Don
Barrie See Oct. 9 for details.
Oct. 23, Wed., 7:00 p.m. – 8:30
p.m.
Webinar: Online Geology Book Discussion,
A
Brief History of Earth – Session 3 of 4
Presented by Geoscience educator Don Barrie See Oct. 9
for details.
Online Registration is required.
Oct. 30,
Wed., 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
4WD Tour: Gettysburg
Canyon, Pumpkin Patch, and onward to Ocotillo Wells SVRA
Trip Leader: Ed Pollock, ABDNHA Volunteer
Meet at ABDNHA at 9:00 a.m. We will drive to just east
of the county line on S22, then drop into the Off-Road
Vehicle Park training area to enter Gettysburg. This is
a picturesque narrow canyon with many tight and winding
curves; long-based vehicles might have a difficult time
negotiating the twists and turns. We then make our way
down to the Pumpkin Patch, with lunch along the
way. After time for exploring the area, we move on down
to the Shell Reef Expressway, and then out to the
off-road headquarters. Flush toilets are available and
Ocotillo Wells Discovery Center. We should end by 3:00
p.m. Bring your lunch, drinks of choice, and a camp
chair. Dress for the weather. Make sure you have a
properly working 4WD vehicle and full tank of
gas. Again, long-based vehicles may have difficulties in
some of the sections of this trip. Limit 22 people, 10
4WD vehicles. No charge. Register at the Nature Center
or call 760-767-3098.
Oct. 30, Wed., 7:00
p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Online Geology Book Discussion, A
Brief History of Earth – Session 4 of 4
Presented by
Geoscience educator Don Barrie
A
Brief History of Earth – Session 4 of 4
Presented by Geoscience educator Don Barrie See Oct. 9
for details.
Online Registration is required.
Nov. 6, Wed., 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Borrego Rock and Gem (BRAG) Club Field Trip
Repeats 2nd Wed of the month through
May. Note: This month it is the 1st Wed. Meet in the ABDNHA parking lot.
Nov. 9, Sat.,
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
ABDNHA’s Annual Attic & Book
Sale
Come look for treasures at ABDNHA’s Attic &
Book Sale and support this fundraiser at the same time!
Lots of vintage items, home décor, knickknacks,
housewares, puzzles, holiday items and, of course,
books! Don’t miss this annual event! In ABDNHA Activity
Room and parking lot between ABDNHA and Carlee’s
restaurant.
Nov. 9, Sat., 6:30 p.m. – 7:30
p.m.
Film History of Borrego Springs and
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Presented by Fred
Jee, former state park ranger and creator of the Borrego
Springs Film Festival
Take a journey back in
time to learn the film-making history of the local area, decade by decade. This presentation shows bits and
pieces of the many films that have been created here. In
the ABDNHA library. GP $12, M $10, V $8. Register online
or at the Nature Center, 760-767-3098.
Nov.
11, Mon., 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Hike: Borrego
Valley Overlook (Moderate)
Leader: Bruce Kelley,
ABDNHA Volunteer
While daytime temperatures may
still be warm in the valley, we’ll go up a couple
thousand feet. We will drive up the Montezuma Grade
about 6 miles. Between mileposts 12 and 11, there is a
parking lot on the right. Our hike will start and end
there. This is a hike up a wash, with some step-ups,
over a ridge and downhill to another wash. We will walk
down that wash to a nice overlook of Borrego Valley. The
hike is 2 to 3 miles roundtrip. Wear sunscreen, a hat,
and good hiking shoes. Bring water and poles, if you
find them helpful for balance. There will be time for a
snack at the overlook. Max 15 people. Meet in the ABDNHA
parking lot by 7:50 a.m. No charge. Register at the
Nature Center or call 760-767-3098.
Nov. 11, Mon., 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
25th Anniversary of the Borrego Desert Nature Center
Opening 11/11/1999 – 11/11/2024
Thank you for your continued support
over the years! Please stop in to celebrate with us.
Nov. 13, Wed., 4:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
4WD Tour: Moonlight in Coyote Canyon
Trip Leader:
Jim Torian, ABDNHA Volunteer
This excursion combines easy
nighttime off-roading while visiting Coyote Canyon in
the moonlight as the rising (almost) full moon cast
shadows on the hills around us. Meet at the ABDNHA
parking lot at 4:30 p.m. We depart at sunset and take in
the twilight ride up Coyote Canyon. At the first
crossing, there may be water, and you will need 4WD and
high clearance. The canyon is still closed past the
second crossing. We will stop to explore and take in the
moonlit scenery prior to the crossing. Our trip ends on
the return leg at the pavement of DiGiorgio Rd at about
7:00 p.m. The trip length is about 9.5 miles. Bring a
flashlight. GMRS Ch. 16 optional. Max 22 people, 8 4WD
vehicles. This trip is weather-dependent. No charge.
Register at the Nature Center or call 760-767-3098.
Nov. 13, Wed., 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Webinar: New Zealand, Land of Contrasts
Presented by: Geologist Don Barrie
New Zealand offers many geologic
wonders, including towering mountains, fascinating
caves, fjords, glaciers, geysers, and earthquake-prone
faults. In this webinar, Don will take us on a whirlwind
tour of New Zealand’s North and South Islands, stopping
here and there to focus on selected geologic
details. From the volcanic and geothermal activity of
the North Island to the tectonic unrest of the South
Island’s Southern Alps and Alpine Fault, geologic
processes in New Zealand are on full display. No charge,
but donations are greatly appreciated.
Online rgistration
is required.
Nov. 15, Fri., 10:00 a.m. start
time (Every Friday)
ABDNHA Friendly Friday
Bike Ride
Volunteer Leader: Paul Petersen
Relaxed social ride of
20-30 mostly flat miles at a 10-12 mph pace. Routes will
vary weekly, fun rides to highlight the roads less
travelled. Return time will vary with route chosen. No
charge, and no registration required. Note the new
meeting location this season: Meet in the parking lot
opposite the county library south entrance.
Nov. 15, Fri., 10:00 a.m. start time
(Every Friday)
ABDNHA Friendly Friday Bike Ride
Volunteer
Leader: Paul Petersen
Relaxed social ride of 20-30 mostly
flat miles at a 10-12 mph pace. Routes will vary weekly,
fun rides to highlight the roads less travelled. Return
time will vary with route chosen. No charge, and no
registration required.
Note the new meeting location this
season: Meet in the parking lot opposite the county
library south entrance.
Nov. 15, Fri., 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Full Moon Walk: South Palm Wash
Leader: Mike
McElhatton, ABDNHA Education Director
Join ABDNHA’s Program Director Mike
McElhatton as we begin our 15th year of offering the
Full Moon Walk in South Palm Wash. Experience the unique
and serene beauty of moonlight on the canyon walls as we
take a 1.5-mile walk through South Palm Wash. Most of
this is an easy walk, although there are a few moderate
areas that require “big steps” up short inclines. We
meet at the ABDNHA office and carpool from there. A
flashlight, water, and good hiking shoes are required.
Space is limited to 22. Activity cancels with thick
cloud cover or high wind. No charge. Call the Nature
Center at 760-767-3098 to reserve.
Nov. 16, Sat., 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
4WD Tour: Yaqui Well to Culp Valley
Leader: Dave
Walters, ABDNHA Volunteer
Join us on a special fall day for a
4WD trip from Yaqui Well to Culp Valley, a
desert-to-mountain day of adventure. Meet at ABDNHA
parking lot at 9:00 a.m. We drive 8 miles to Yaqui Well
trailhead to begin our 4WD journey. Traveling along the
San Felipe Creek at first, we then turn north and enter
Grapevine Canyon, stopping at Stuart Spring to look
around briefly. Continuing on, we leave the desert by
turning onto Jasper Trail and begin to gain elevation.
We stop for lunch at The Slab (elevation 4200’) then
head for Culp Valley. Here we say goodbye and return to
the paved highway S22. Travel distance off-road is 18
miles; time is 5 hours. Bring food, water, and a hat and
jacket in case it is chilly at lunchtime. Max 20 people,
10 4WD vehicles. No charge. Register at the Nature
Center or call 760-767-3098.
Nov. 19, Tue., 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Hike: Smuggler Canyon Overlook (Moderate)
Leaders:
Terri Straub and Carmelita Logerwell
Hike 1.5 miles to a spectacular view
of Smuggler Canyon and the distant Laguna Mountains from
the top of a very high, very impressive dry waterfall.
There are a few fairly easy step-ups. We pass by a rock
with several Kumeyaay Indian pictographs. Return the way
we came. Sandy access road suitable for AWD cars. Max 15
people. Meet at ABDNHA by 7:50 a.m. Bring snacks and
water. No charge. Call 760-767-3098 to reserve.
Nov. 20, Wed., 2:00 p.m.
Borrego
Rock and Gem (BRAG) Club Meeting
Note: This event is on the 3rd Wed.
this month because of Thanksgiving. Meet at ABDNHA
Activity Room.
Nov. 21, Thu., 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Birding Walk: San Felipe Valley Wildlife Area (Easy)
Leaders: Tom Keffer and Lee Christie, ABDNHA Volunteers
A pleasant, easy walk through a
little-visited preserve. There are many migrants that
frequent the reserve, especially in the riparian
woodlands along San Felipe Creek. We’ll look for
Roadrunner, Cooper’s Hawk, Oak Titmouse, Bluebirds, and
Acorn Woodpeckers. 4 mi RT, 200’ vertical, easy tread.
You must buy a $5.40 personal pass for this walk! See
https:/tinyurl.com/hkrkshtu ,
and select “Continue as Guest” at the bottom of the page, then “Lands Pass”. Max
15 people. Meet at ABDNHA by 7:50 a.m. Bring
lunch/snacks, binoculars, water. Call 760-767-3098 to
reserve.
Nov. 21, Thu., 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
ABDNHA DESERT LECTURE SERIES
Webinar: Those
Delightful Arachnids
Presenter: Jillian Cowles,
Researcher, Author, Photographer
Maybe you won’t call them
delightful, but put aside whatever squeamishness you
might have about them for just a short time and be
prepared to learn some absolutely incredible things
about how they live their lives. Speaker Jillian Cowles
is a clinical microbiologist, naturalist, and
exceptional photographer, and has been researching these
fascinating creatures for a long time. This research has
led to the publication of her book, “Amazing
Arachnids.” This first lecture in our featured Desert
Lecture Series this season is a webinar about the
biology, the behavior, and the life history of
arachnids. It’s also about the amazing creativity and
patience that enabled Jillian to produce and present her
work. She speaks to us tonight from Tucson, Arizona. The
webinar is free of charge, but donations help support
our programs.
Pre-registration is required.
Nov. 22, Fri., 10:00 a.m. start time
(Every Friday)
ABDNHA Friendly Friday Bike Ride
Volunteer
Leader: Paul Petersen
Relaxed social ride of 20-30 mostly
flat miles at a 10-12 mph pace. Routes will vary weekly,
fun rides to highlight the roads less travelled. Return
time will vary with route chosen. No charge, and no
registration required.
Note the new meeting location this
season: Meet in the parking lot opposite the county
library south entrance.
Nov. 23, Sat. 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Hike: Truckhaven Rocks (Moderate)
Leaders: Tom
Keffer and Lee Christie, ABDNHA Volunteers
This hike takes you through
beautifully eroded sandstone rocks with some twisty,
tight passages. We’ll crawl through “Martha’s Tunnel”
(the closer you are to 5’ tall, the easier it will be),
which leads into a whole new stretch of the canyon. 3.5
mi RT, 350’ vertical. Mostly sandy tread, but with some
rocks and step-ups. Max 15 people. Meet at ABDNHA by
7:50 a.m. Bring lunch/snacks, water. No charge. Call
760-767-3098 to reserve.
Nov. 23, Sat., 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
ABDNHA Member Appreciation Day
20% off in-store for members and new
members who join today! ABDNHA members receive 20% off
purchases 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. today in the Nature
Center. Do all your holiday shopping in one place and
support ABDNHA with your purchases! Join us today and
make the desert a part of your life!
Nov. 23, Sat., 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Astronomy: Meet our Milky Way Neighbors
Speaker: Dr.
Randall Baron, Astronomer, ABDNHA Volunteer
This program has been cancelled.
The speaker has moved from the area.
Nov. 28, Thu., 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Thanksgiving Birding Walk : Borrego Springs Resort
(Easy)
Birding Leaders: Tom Keffer and Lee Christie
Enjoy an early Thanksgiving Day birding walk! Although
the golf course at the Borrego Springs Resort is closed,
its water features survive, attracting a wide variety of
birds. We will look for Hooded Merganser, Ruddy Duck,
Green Heron, Black-crowned Night Heron and many others.
1.5 mi, no elevation gain, easy trail. No charge. Meet
in the ABDNHA parking lot by 7:50 a.m. Call 760-767-3098
to reserve. Bring snacks, binoculars, water. Call 760-767-3098 to
reserve.
Nov. 29, Fri., 10:00 a.m. start time
(Every Friday)
ABDNHA Friendly Friday
Bike Ride
Volunteer Leader: Paul Petersen
Relaxed social ride of 20-30 mostly
flat miles at a 10-12 mph pace. Routes will vary weekly,
fun rides to highlight the roads less travelled. Return
time will vary with route chosen. No charge, and no
registration required.
Note the new meeting location this
season: Meet in the parking lot opposite the county
library south entrance. .
Nov. 30, Sat., 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Hike: Little Grand Canyon Overlook (Fairly Easy)
Leaders: Tom Keffer and Lee Christie, ABDNHA Volunteers
“Little Grand Canyon” is an
impressive, although small, slot canyon in Coyote
Canyon, near Desert Gardens. We will make two trips this
year. This one is the easier one, known for its variety
of flowers ending with a view of the canyon from
above. Access is via a sandy road that is usually no
problem for most 2WD. 3 mi RT, 400’ vertical, good tread
with some small rubble. Max 15 people. Meet at ABDNHA by
7:50 a.m. Bring lunch/snacks, water. No charge. Call
760-767-3098 to reserve.
Dec. 3, Tue., 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Hike: Ghost Mountain (Strenuous) Volunteer
Leaders:
Terri Straub and Carmelita Logerwell
You may have been to the Marshall
South homesite known as Ghost Mountain. But have you
gone all the way to the actual mountain? We will walk
one mile up the steep trail to first visit the homesite,
then we will walk another half mile, cross country, to
the ‘real’ Ghost Mountain marked by several big
boulders. There will be rocks and cactus. Return the way
we came. Sandy access road suitable for AWD cars. Max 15
people. Meet at ABDNHA by 7:50 a.m. Bring snacks and
water. No charge. Call 760-767-3098 to reserve.
Dec. 3, Tue., 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Nature Journaling (Easy)
Leaders: Pat Matthews, Pam
Blake and Selden McKee
This activity repeats on the first
and third Tuesdays of the month to explore nature
journaling in the ABDNHA Garden and in the field until
noon. No experience necessary—just a curiosity about the
natural world. Participants will need a small journal
(preferably a small, unlined journal), pencil, eraser,
micron pen, colored pencils or compact watercolor set,
and a chair. We will be outdoors, so a sun hat, water,
and snack are recommended. Meet in the ABDNHA parking
lot. No charge. Call the Nature Center at 760-767-3098
to reserve.
Dec. 5, Thu., 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Birding Walk: Salton Sea Unit 1, Vendel Rd. (Easy)
Leaders: Tom Keffer and Lee Christie, ABDNHA Volunteers
Today we head to one of the best
birding locations in our region: Unit 1 of the Sonny
Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge. Expect
Shovelers, Teals, Stilts, Avocet, Godwit, Dowitchers,
thousands of Snow Geese and more. Easy walk of 2 miles
RT, no elevation, good tread. Travel time in each
direction is about 1 hour. Max 15 people. Meet at ABDNHA
by 7:50 a.m. Bring lunch/snacks, binoculars, water. No
charge. Call 760-767-3098 to reserve.
Dec. 6, Fri., 10:00 a.m. start time
(Every Friday)
ABDNHA Friendly Friday Bike Ride
Volunteer
Leader: Paul Petersen
Relaxed social ride of 20-30 mostly
flat miles at a 10-12 mph pace. Routes will vary weekly,
fun rides to highlight the roads less travelled. Return
time will vary with route chosen. No charge, and no
registration required.
Note the new meeting location this
season: Meet in the parking lot opposite the county
library south entrance.
Dec. 7, Sat., 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Hike: Plum Canyon (Moderate)
Leaders: Tom Keffer and
Lee Christie, ABDNHA Volunteers
Pleasant hike up a well-shaded
canyon to a great viewpoint up and down Earthquake
Valley. We'll look for ocotillo, barrel, beavertail,
teddy-bear cholla, and other cacti. 3 mi RT, 450’
vertical. For those who like more of a challenge, we can
do an optional loop up Sentenac Mountain (strenuous,
steep, cactus), which is an additional mile and 600' of
elevation gain. Sandy 1.5-mile access road, suitable for
most 2WD. Max 15 people. Meet at ABDNHA by 7:50 a.m.
Bring lunch/snacks and water. No charge. Call
760-767-3098 to reserve.
Dec. 7, Sat., 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
ABDNHA’s Famous Annual Chili Fest – A Member
Appreciation Event!
ABDNHA members are invited to join
us for delicious homemade chili, cornbread and cookies!
Members also receive a 20% discount in the Nature Center
during the Chili Fest from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Do all
your shopping in one place! We will offer options for
both take home and outdoor seating (weather permitting).
Dec. 9, Mon., 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Hike: Vista del Malpais (Moderate)
Leader: Bruce
Kelley, ABDNHA Volunteer
East of Font’s Point, several miles
on the same escarpment, closer to the Salton Sea with
360-degree views. We will 4WD off S22 into Palo Verde
Wash and Center Cut Wash about 3 miles. We will park on
the side of the jeep road to the vista, and do a
moderate hike 1.5 miles (each way). Gradual gradient up
washes to the vista. We’ll walk along the rim for a few
hundred yards, then return down the same washes. There
will be a narrow trail along the rim with a steep drop
off for one-quarter mile. If you do not like heights,
you may not want to do this one! Bring water, sunscreen,
a windbreaker, a hiking stick, good hiking shoes, and
4WD vehicle. Max 15 people. Meet in parking lot of
ABDNHA by 7:50 a.m. No charge. Register at the Nature
Center or call 760-767-3098.
Dec. 11, Wed., 9:00 a.m. –
3:00 p.m.
Borrego Rock and Gem (BRAG)
Club Field Trip
Repeats 2nd Wed of the month through May. Meet at in the
ABDNHA parking lot.
Dec. 12, Thu., 7:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Birding Walk: Dos Palmas Reserve (Easy)
Leaders: Tom
Keffer and Lee Christie, ABDNHA Volunteers
Dos Palmas is a delightful desert
oasis on the NE side of the Salton Sea. First, we’ll
visit a cathedral-like grove of desert palm trees. Then,
we’ll do about a 1-mile walk to a series of water
impoundments that attract many species. We’ll look for
Ring-necked Duck, Bufflehead, Ruddy Duck, Sora, and
others. Maybe we’ll get lucky and see a Prairie Falcon!
Total distance, 5 miles, flat. Travel time 1 ¼ hours.
Max 15 people. Meet at ABDNHA by 7:20 a.m. Bring
lunch/snacks, binoculars, water. No charge. Call
760-767-3098 to reserve. Note the earlier 7:30 a.m.
start time!
Dec. 12, Thu., 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Pam’s Canine Amble (Easy)
Leader: Pam Blake,
ABDNHA Volunteer
Come amble with Pam and her dog Olaf
on a park Jeep road, meeting in the ABDNHA parking lot
at 9:30 a.m. Please make sure to bring water for your
dog as well as yourself! All canine companions must be
on a leash no longer than 6 feet and should be
comfortable with strangers and other dogs. We will stay
on roads exclusively, as per park rules—but there are
some great ones! Max 15 people. No charge; call
760-767-3098 to reserve. This amble will repeat on the
2nd and 4th Thursday of each month.
Dec. 13, Fri., 10:00 a.m. start time
(Every Friday)
ABDNHA Friendly Friday
Bike Ride
Volunteer Leader: Paul Peterson
Relaxed social ride of 20-30 mostly
flat miles at a 10-12 mph pace. Routes will vary weekly,
fun rides to highlight the roads less travelled. Return
time will vary with route chosen. No charge, and no
registration required.
Note the new meeting location this
season: Meet in the parking lot opposite the county
library south entrance.
Dec. 14, Sat., 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Hike: Nolina Wash (Moderate)
Leaders: Tom Keffer and
Lee Christie, ABDNHA Volunteers
Hike up this scenic Anza-Borrego
desert wash, looking for ironwood trees and Nolinas (a
type of agave) along the way. The trail starts wide and
sandy, but gradually gets narrower and steeper. Several
waterfalls that turn out to be easy to get around.
Access is via a 4-mile sandy road that is usually no
problem for most 2WD. 4 mi RT, 700’ vertical. Max 15
people. Meet at ABDNHA by 7:50 a.m. Bring lunch/snacks,
water. No charge. Call 760-767-3098 to reserve.
Dec. 14, Sat., 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
4WD Tour: Fish Creek to Split Rock
Leader:
Dave Walters, ABDNHA Volunteer
Join us on this 4WD adventure! 4WD
high clearance vehicle required. We will travel 22 miles
of 4WD trail over sandstone, clay, rock and deep sand to
our destination of Split Rock, where we will stop for
lunch (bring a chair). We will return on the same trail
to the paved road and say our goodbyes. Bring a full
tank of fuel, water, food, appropriate clothing, and a
hat. Max 20 people, 10 4WD vehicles. Meet at the ABDNHA
parking lot at 9:00 a.m. No charge. Reserve at the
Nature Center or call 760-767-3098.
Dec. 14, Sat., 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Full Moon Walk: South Palm Wash
Leader: Mike
McElhatton, ABDNHA Education Director
Join
ABDNHA’s Program Director Mike McElhatton as we begin
our 15th year of offering the Full Moon Walk in South
Palm Wash. Experience the unique and serene beauty of
moonlight on the canyon walls as we take a 1.5-mile walk
through South Palm Wash. Most of this is an easy walk,
although there are a few moderate areas that require
“big steps” up short inclines. We meet at the ABDNHA
office and carpool from there. A flashlight, water, and
good hiking shoes are required. Space is limited to 22.
Activity cancels with thick cloud cover or high wind. No
charge. Call the Nature Center at 760-767-3098 to
reserve.
Dec. 15, Sun., 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Special Webinar: Golden Eagles in San Diego County
Presenter: Katie Quint, Research Director of the
Wildlife Research Institute (WRI)
Join Katie Quint as she tells the
story of golden eagles in San Diego County and what
research has told us about these magnificent birds.
Katie is the third generation of researchers working on
WRI’s long-term annual eagle monitoring program, which
started in 1988. Katie became involved in 2012 and has spent many hours on the
ground and in helicopters gathering data and looking for
eagle nests in the desert mountains. Katie is considered
a local expert on golden eagles, and her presentation
will include information about reproductive activity,
territory, nest distribution, and the results of the
annual monitoring program. No charge, but donations are
greatly appreciated.
Online registration is required.
Dec. 17, Tue., 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Hike: Glorietta Canyon/Juanito Canyon Loop (Strenuous)
Volunteer Leaders: Terri Straub and Carmelita
Logerwell
Hike with us on a trail up pretty
Glorietta canyon to the top. Then, we go cross country
down into Juanito Canyon and make our way through and
around the rocks to the bottom of that canyon.
Continuing cross country in a roundabout way, we
eventually end up on the Jeep road we came in on. We
will have to walk about 0.6 miles on that Jeep road to
get back to our cars. Total loop is about 4 miles. Dirt
road suitable for all cars. Max 15 people. Meet at
ABDNHA by 7:50 a.m. Bring snacks, water. Call
760-767-3098 to reserve. No charge. Reserve at the
Nature Center or call 760-767-3098.
Dec. 17, Tue., 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Nature Journaling (Easy)
Leaders: Pat Matthews,
Pam Blake and Selden McKee
This activity repeats on the first
and third Tuesdays of the month to explore nature
journaling in the ABDNHA Garden and in the field until
noon. No experience necessary—just a curiosity about the
natural world. Participants will need a small journal
(preferably a small, unlined journal), pencil, eraser,
micron pen, colored pencils or compact watercolor set,
and a chair. We will be outdoors, so a sun hat, water,
and snack are recommended. Meet in the ABDNHA parking
lot. No charge. Call the Nature Center at 760-767-3098
to reserve. .
Dec. 18, Wed., 2:00 p.m.
Borrego
Rock and Gem (BRAG) Club Meeting
Note: This event is on the 3rd Wed.
this month because of Christmas. Meet at ABDNHA Activity
Room. Dec. 20, Fri., 10:00 a.m. start time (Every
Friday) ABDNHA Friendly Friday Bike Ride Volunteer
Leader: Paul Peterson See Nov. 15, 10 a.m., for the full
description.
Dec. 20, Fri., 10:00 a.m. start time
(Every Friday)
ABDNHA Friendly Friday
Bike Ride
Volunteer Leader: Paul Peterson
Relaxed
social ride of 20-30 mostly flat miles at a 10-12 mph
pace. Routes will vary weekly, fun rides to highlight
the roads less travelled. Return time will vary with
route chosen. No charge, and no registration required.
Note the new meeting location this
season: Meet in the parking lot opposite the county
library south entrance.
Dec. 21, Sat., 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Hike: Moonlight Canyon and Inner Pasture (Fairly
Strenuous)
Leaders: Tom Keffer and Lee Christie
This year, we will be hiking the
Moonlight Canyon loop. Half-way around, we’ll take a 3
mi RT side trail (600’ vertical, 4-to-6-foot waterfalls,
uneven footing, steep sections) to a terrific view of
the Inner Pasture. Total length is 5 miles. Park fee.
Max 15 people. Meet in the ABDNHA parking lot by 7:50
a.m. No charge. Call 760-767-3098 to reserve. Wear
sturdy boots (no tennies!). Bring lunch/snacks and
water.
Dec. 25, Wed., 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Birding Walk: Rams Hill Golf Course (Easy)
Leaders: Tom Keffer and Lee Christie
Looking for something different to
do on Christmas morning? Come join us at one of the
better birding spots in the Borrego area! Normally
closed to the public, we have permission to walk the
course on the one day of the year when it's closed. Look
for Cinnamon and Green-winged Teal, Gadwall, Grebes and
others. 4 mi RT, 100' vertical. Max 15 people. Meet at
ABDNHA by 7:50 a.m. Bring snacks, binoculars, water. No
charge. Call 760-767-3098 to reserve.
Dec. 26, Thu., 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Pam’s Canine Amble (Easy)
Leader: Pam Blake See
Come amble with Pam and her dog Olaf
on a park Jeep road, meeting in the ABDNHA parking lot
at 9:30 a.m. Please make sure to bring water for your
dog as well as yourself! All canine companions must be
on a leash no longer than 6 feet and should be
comfortable with strangers and other dogs. We will stay
on roads exclusively, as per park rules—but there are
some great ones! Max 15 people. No charge; call
760-767-3098 to reserve. This amble will repeat on the
2nd and 4th Thursday of each month.
Dec. 27, Fri., 10:00 a.m. start time
(Every Friday)
ABDNHA Friendly Friday Bike Ride
Volunteer Leader: Paul Peterson
Relaxed social ride of 20-30 mostly
flat miles at a 10-12 mph pace. Routes will vary weekly,
fun rides to highlight the roads less travelled. Return
time will vary with route chosen. No charge, and no
registration required. Meet in the parking lot opposite
the county library south entrance.
Dec. 28, Sat., 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Hike: Little Grand Canyon (Moderate to Fairly Strenuous)
Leaders: Tom Keffer and Lee Christie
“Little Grand Canyon” is an
impressive, although small, slot canyon in Coyote
Canyon, near Desert Gardens. This will be our second
trip this season, this time up the canyon itself. The
trail meanders up a classic slot canyon, getting
continually rougher — stop when it’s too much for you.
If you make it all the way, you’ll be squeezing through
a low-overhead tunnel. 5 mi RT, 600’ vertical, mostly
good tread, with more rocks, rubble, and step-ups near
the end. Access is via a sandy road that is usually no
problem for most 2WD. Max 15 people. Meet at ABDNHA by
7:50 a.m. Bring lunch/snacks and water. No charge. Call
760-767-3098 to reserve.
Dec. 28, Sat., 6:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
ABDNHA Travel Series: Tea House Trek to Khayer Lake,
Nepal and Little Tibet – Tour of Ladakh
Speakers:
Sanjiv Nanda & Alan Parks, ABDNHA Volunteers
Last May, ABDNHA's popular hike leading duo of Sanjiv
and Alan, ventured far afield into the Himalayan
mountains. Join us for a two-part photo journey. In Part
1, we go on a 8-day Tea House trek to Khayer Lake at
15,300 feet, nestled below the massive mastiff of
Annapurna South. In Part 2, we visit Ladakh, the land
of high passes, sometimes called Little Tibet. We will
cross high mountain passes over 17,500 feet and visit
Pangong Lake at 13,800 feet, the highest endorheic lake
in the world. During the break, there will be a small
exhibit of souvenirs while we enjoy a surprise tasting
of yak cheese and Kashmiri kahwa. In the ABDNHA
library. General Public $12, Members $10, Volunteers $8.
Register online or at the Nature Center, 760-767-3098.
In the ABDNHA library. GP $12, M $10, V $8. Register
online at www.abdnha.org or at
the Nature Center, 760-767-3098. 
Dec. 31, Tue., 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Hike: New Year’s Eve Hike (Moderate)
Leaders: Urmi
Ray and Sanjiv Nanda, ABDNHA Volunteers
Enjoy the tradition of hiking and
catching up on New Year’s Eve. This year, we have
substitute leaders for our popular leader Joan Malone.
Max 15 people. No charge. Register at the Nature Center
or call 760-767-3098.
Jan. 11, Sat., 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Unique Geologic features of Anza-Borrego Desert State
Park
Presented by:
Geologist Mike Hart
The Anza-Borrego desert contains many interesting and
unique geologic features that are not widely recognized.
This presentation will be a tour of some of
these features that include active faults, ancient
landslides, avalanches, wind carved mud hills
(yardangs) and an anomalous erosional gash in the San
Felipe Creek alluvial fan. In the ABDNHA library. GP
$12, M $10, V $8. Register online at
www.abdnha.org or at the
Nature Center, 760-767-3098.
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