A Beautiful Homes Stroll
A home on Hillside Avenue with local stone on its façade. Photo by Dave Weinstein
|
Sunday, August 21, 2022 4 pm to 6 pm
Let’s enjoy views of Storybook, Period Revival and Mid-Century Modern homes and gardens, and notice rock outcroppings, creeks and other natural historical features, on this sometimes steepish route. A 90-minute walk will finish with socializing and refreshments on the rocky front yard of a Trail Trekker’s home. Meet: In front of a home at 2661 Mira Vista Dr., Richmond, near the El Cerrito border Leader: Dave Weinstein, 510-529-5432, [email protected] |
Photo: David Ackerly
Recent Past Events
Rotary Interpretive/Native Plant Walk
Janet Gawthrop is a dedicated naturalist who has led
several hikes for Trekkers. Photo by Dave Weinstein
|
Sunday, July 31, 2022 10 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Join us in the Hillside Natural Area for a walk along the Rotary Interpretive Walk, visiting signs that provide information on geology, plants, animals, and insects of the area. Learn about plants along the way with Janet Gawthrop, field trip coordinator for the East Bay chapter of the California Native Plant Society, who maintains volunteer weeding sites in East Bay Regional parks. We will walk about 2 miles at a leisurely pace with one steep climb at the start.
Meet: Schmidt Lane trailhead, near the Recycling Center Information: Dave Weinstein, 510-529 -5432, [email protected] |
Parents, children from a 4H club, and others learned to distinguish harmful invasive plants from valuable natives during a combination hike-broom pull in November. They also learned how to remove the invasive broom plants. Susan Schwartz of Friends of Five Creeks was the leader. Photo by Dave Weinstein
|
Learn about the geological setting of El Cerrito and about the rocks in our city – the Franciscan formation metamorphic rocks, volcanic rocks, and faults and landslides.
Tour leader Gary Prost is a retired geologist who spent 40 years working for the U.S. Geological Survey, mining companies, and oil companies. He is a member of the Northern California Geological Society. Bring sturdy shoes and hiking poles for the steep sections, and be prepared for any kind of weather. Meet at 10 a.m. Saturday February 19 at the Schmidt Lane Hillside Area trailhead, near the Recycling Center. |
|
Volunteer at the Green Teams Broom Pull
On Saturday, January 15, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. to noon, join El Cerrito’s Green Teams and El Cerrito Trail Trekkers to remove invasive French broom from the Hillside Natural Area. The ground is now soft making it easier to pull plants out. No experience necessary! Meet at the north end of Regency Court. All ages welcome (under 18 with guardian). Wear a hat and bring gloves, sunscreen and water. The Green Teams supply tools and tarps. For more info, email [email protected] or call 510-215-4350. |
Stephen Prée educated volunteers about native plants and the perils posed by invasive plants during a recent Baxter Creek work party. Photo by Dave Weinstein
|
|
Take part in the next Baxter Creek Work Party on Sunday, January 9, 10 a.m. to noon.
Please join city staff and other volunteers at Baxter Creek Gateway Park in this jewel on the Ohlone Greenway. The activities will include litter removal, invasive plant removal and native plant care. The work party will be the second Sunday this month, not the usual first Sunday, due to the holiday. All ages are welcome (under 18 with guardian). Please wear long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Bring water. The city will provide tools, bags, gloves, and sanitizer. There are no bathrooms at the park. We will meet at 10 a.m. at Conlon Avenue and the Ohlone Greenway. RSVP by email or phone: [email protected] or 510-215-4350. Baxter Creek Gateway Park Volunteer Days take place on the first Sunday of each month, except during major holiday weekends, in which case we will meet the following Sunday. |
|
Mark your calendars for Hillside Festival 2022 –Saturday and Sunday, May 14 and 15. The ninth annual Hillside Festival will be held in the actual Hillside Natural Area in 2022, unlike last year, when events were held virtually. This year we will also include virtual events for a hybrid festival. Trekkers is also developing a backup plan in case the pandemic worsens. But if all goes well – see you in the hills! Our festival is always free and features bird, animal, plant hikes, history events, and more.
|
A family enjoys a Jenny Hammer geocaching hike at the 2019 Hillside Festival. Photo by Dave Weinstein
|
|
Discover hidden poems in our Hillside and all around our town.
Are you interested in treasure-hunting during your walks in El Cerrito? Jenny Hammer and Tim Aaronson of El Cerrito Trail Trekkers have refreshed their Hidden Poetry geocaching hike series. These hikes were sponsored by Trail Trekkers and the El Cerrito Arts and Culture Commission and were a local twist to the international sport of geocaching. Use the GPS coordinates and the maps at Trekkers website (under the PLACES/HIDDEN POETRY GPS tab) to find the hidden containers, read the poems inside, and then sign and date the log sheets. There are twenty-six caches with poems by, and short biographies of, the poets all over our city. In Hike Series One, read poems of California poets laureate, starting with the first one, Ina Coolbrith (1915). Series Two will bring you to nine United States poets laureate, and Series Three highlights eight of our local poets. Use the GPS function of your smart phone or other device to find the caches. Afterward, if you’d like, post your comments at: https://www.facebook.com/El-Cerrito-Trail-Trekkers-115184015302188/ Happy hunting! |
The El Cerrito Rotary Club funded and helped install interpretive signs, which were the basis for Trekkers tour of the Hillside natural Area. Photo by Glen Nethercut
|
Rotary Walk Virtual Tour Is Available
At Trekker’s annual meeting in July, we took a virtual tour of the Rotary Interpretive Walk. Now you can take that tour with geologist Gary Prost, birder Tara McIntire, and entomologist Eddie Dunbar. Enjoy!
At Trekker’s annual meeting in July, we took a virtual tour of the Rotary Interpretive Walk. Now you can take that tour with geologist Gary Prost, birder Tara McIntire, and entomologist Eddie Dunbar. Enjoy!
Do you have a favorite tree?
Sure you do! Whether it is a street tree, a tree in a city park or the Hillside Natural Area, a tree in a shopping center, or one in your front yard, why not share it with the world?
The city of El Cerrito’s Urban Forest Committee wants to publicize the city’s trees and urban canopy this spring, in honor of Arbor Week, March 7-14. Other Arbor Week plans include tree plantings and a virtual “Ask the El Cerrito Arborist” presentation and discussion.
Committee chair Mary Torrusio plans to post images of “local trees that community members especially enjoy or admire’ on Instagram. Send your favorite tree on to Mary, and tell her why this tree is special: [email protected].
Sure you do! Whether it is a street tree, a tree in a city park or the Hillside Natural Area, a tree in a shopping center, or one in your front yard, why not share it with the world?
The city of El Cerrito’s Urban Forest Committee wants to publicize the city’s trees and urban canopy this spring, in honor of Arbor Week, March 7-14. Other Arbor Week plans include tree plantings and a virtual “Ask the El Cerrito Arborist” presentation and discussion.
Committee chair Mary Torrusio plans to post images of “local trees that community members especially enjoy or admire’ on Instagram. Send your favorite tree on to Mary, and tell her why this tree is special: [email protected].
El Cerrito Trail Trekkers is restoring a large network of pedestrian and bicycle paths, trails and steps for the enjoyment of the community
|
A Four Parks Stroll
Saturday, August 28, 2021 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or so Enjoy a pleasant, at-times steep, 90-minute to two-hour stroll through two of our city’s favorite parks and two in Richmond. See fine homes, several creeks, rock outcrops, public art and other wonders. Wear hiking shoes. Unvaccinated? Wear a mask.
Meet: Bottom of Poinsett Park, corner of Poinsett and Harris avenues Leader: Dave Weinstein, 510-529-5432, [email protected] |
|
Hillside Festival 2021
Trekkers’ eighth Hillside Festival will be different this year, with a mix of live and pre-recorded online “hikes” plus self-guided events for families and friends to do without the crowds that have attended past, pre-pandemic festivals.
Here is the schedule of events for the Hillside Festival. Enjoy! Haiku contest. Rules, prizes. And just what is a haiku, anyway? Enjoy our Nature Scavenger Hunt, a photographic, family friendly family activity. |
A family enjoys a Jenny Hammer geocaching hike at the 2019 Hillside Festival. Photo by Dave Weinstein
|
Discover hidden poems in our Hillside.
Are you interested in treasure-hunting during your walks in El Cerrito? Jenny Hammer and Tim Aaronson of El Cerrito Trail Trekkers have refreshed their Hidden Poetry geocaching hike series.
These hikes were sponsored by Trail Trekkers and the El Cerrito Arts and Culture Commission and were a local twist to the international sport of geocaching. Use the GPS coordinates and the maps at Trekkers website (under the PLACES/HIDDEN POETRY GPS tab) to find the hidden containers, read the poems inside, and then sign and date the log sheets. |
A volunteer uses a weed wrench to remove broom at the Trekkers November work party. Photo by Dave Weinstein
|
It’s time to pull broom!
Join the city of El Cerrito’s Green Teams and El Cerrito Trail Trekkers to remove noxious French broom, which chokes out native plants and fuels wildfires. The ground is soft so it is easy to pull plants out; we will also dump existing piles into a dumpster. We will supply tools, gloves and tarps. Bring water and wear sunscreen. No experience necessary! The work party is Saturday, February 27, 2021 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Attendance limited. Wear a mask. Keep your distance. Enjoy! Meet at north end of Regency Court. Rsvp required: [email protected]. A second broom party will take place Sunday, March 14, same time and place. |
One last broom bashing in the Hillside. Please join us!
Over the past two months Trekker volunteers have removed many piles of dead, invasive and flammable broom plants from the Hillside Natural Area. Still, a few piles remain. Some were only spotted after we hacked through stands of invasive artichoke. And while we are at it, let’s uproot young, tender shoots of broom before they grow into monsters. Invasive plants harm habitat and cause fire danger.
We will supply tools, gloves, tarps, and more. Bring water! Saturday, Oct. 31, 2020, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Attendance limited. Wear a mask. Keep your distance. Enjoy! Meet on Madera Circle, just downhill from Madera Elementary School. Rsvp required: [email protected].
Over the past two months Trekker volunteers have removed many piles of dead, invasive and flammable broom plants from the Hillside Natural Area. Still, a few piles remain. Some were only spotted after we hacked through stands of invasive artichoke. And while we are at it, let’s uproot young, tender shoots of broom before they grow into monsters. Invasive plants harm habitat and cause fire danger.
We will supply tools, gloves, tarps, and more. Bring water! Saturday, Oct. 31, 2020, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Attendance limited. Wear a mask. Keep your distance. Enjoy! Meet on Madera Circle, just downhill from Madera Elementary School. Rsvp required: [email protected].
Volunteer Howdy Goudey tamps down debris in the dumpster so we can cram in more.
|
This area of rocks and oak was cleared of a large broom pile in the Hillside Natural Area. Photos by Dave Weinstein
|
Broom Bashing Continues
Sept. 21, 2020: Broom bashers filled one dumpster and will return in October with another. Six Trail Trekker volunteers managed to fill most of a 20-cubic-yard dumpster with dead broom and other shrub and tree debris that had been piled up for a couple of years at the top of Madera Open Space, part of the Hillside Natural Area.
The work party took place September 20, a week after the originally scheduled date, when smoke made working outdoors a bad idea.
It’s amazing what can get done in two hours. But several piles remain. Trekkers is scheduling a follow up broom haul and pull for October at a date to be set. Because of the pandemic these work parties require an rsvp as attendance is limited and participants must keep distance and wear masks.
Trekkers thanks the city of El Cerrito for its partnership in this event.
We need volunteers to help improve this habitat and lessen fire risk. The work is deeply satisfying. The area is beautiful, with rock outcrops, views and oaks. Email Dave Weinstein to be on the list. [email protected].
The work party took place September 20, a week after the originally scheduled date, when smoke made working outdoors a bad idea.
It’s amazing what can get done in two hours. But several piles remain. Trekkers is scheduling a follow up broom haul and pull for October at a date to be set. Because of the pandemic these work parties require an rsvp as attendance is limited and participants must keep distance and wear masks.
Trekkers thanks the city of El Cerrito for its partnership in this event.
We need volunteers to help improve this habitat and lessen fire risk. The work is deeply satisfying. The area is beautiful, with rock outcrops, views and oaks. Email Dave Weinstein to be on the list. [email protected].
Members of the El Cerrito Rotary Club and Trail Trekkers installed the Rotary Walk signs this month. Photo by Dave Weinstein
|
El Cerrito’s Rotary Interpretive Trail opens
Should we write about mountain lions or deer? Banana slugs or animal scat? Eucalyptus trees alone? Or eucalyptus and other invasive plants? If nature signs are in color will they be too intrusive?
After three years of delving into these and other questions, El Cerrito Trail Trekkers and the El Cerrito Rotary Club installed the 15-sign Rotary Interpretive Walk in May in the city’s Hillside Natural Area. The interpretive signs cover a wide variety of topics, from history to geology to flora and fauna. One important question never came up: Where’s the money coming from? That’s because the Rotary chose this project to fund in an effort to contribute to the local community, something the Club has been doing for decades. |
Rotarians did more than fund the signs. Members of the club worked with Trekker volunteers to dig the holes and plant the signs. During this project we adhered to virus safety procedures.
The signs look good, with subtle color that communicates the message but does not blare out. We think they are sized just right.
See them along the Live Oak Trail and tell us what you think. Head into the Hillside from Schmidt Lane and turn left when you spot the first sign. You can also enter the Hillside through the Douglas Drive trailhead, where the interpretive walk ends.
The Rotary provided major inspiration as well as funds, but it was a community effort.
Signs were designed by Jan Byers, and the drawings were by Adam Prost
Authors of the sign text are Susan Schwartz of Friends of Five Creeks, who wrote about creeks, grassland, oaks and shrubs; Tara McIntire, who wrote about red-tailed hawks and towhees; Keli Hendricks of Project Coyote, who wrote about coyotes; Gary Prost of the Northern California Geological Society, who wrote about rocks and geology; Zara McDonald of the Felidae Conservation Fund, who wrote about mountain lions; Dave Weinstein, who wrote about Hillside history and banana slugs; Eddie Dunbar of the Insect Sciences Museum of California, who wrote about dragonflies; and Bev Ortiz of the East Bay Regional Park District, who wrote about the Huchiun people.
Tom Gehling contributed drawings of invasive plants, and Linda Yamane contributed a drawing of a tule dwelling.
The Rotary signs are the first set of signs to be installed in the Hillside Natural Area. Next up are signs designed for us by the National Park Service that will mark each trail.
The first of those to go in will be the large Gateway sign at the Schmidt Lane trailhead of the Forest Brown Trail. And guess who is paying for that one?
El Cerrito Rotary.
Thanks!
The signs look good, with subtle color that communicates the message but does not blare out. We think they are sized just right.
See them along the Live Oak Trail and tell us what you think. Head into the Hillside from Schmidt Lane and turn left when you spot the first sign. You can also enter the Hillside through the Douglas Drive trailhead, where the interpretive walk ends.
The Rotary provided major inspiration as well as funds, but it was a community effort.
Signs were designed by Jan Byers, and the drawings were by Adam Prost
Authors of the sign text are Susan Schwartz of Friends of Five Creeks, who wrote about creeks, grassland, oaks and shrubs; Tara McIntire, who wrote about red-tailed hawks and towhees; Keli Hendricks of Project Coyote, who wrote about coyotes; Gary Prost of the Northern California Geological Society, who wrote about rocks and geology; Zara McDonald of the Felidae Conservation Fund, who wrote about mountain lions; Dave Weinstein, who wrote about Hillside history and banana slugs; Eddie Dunbar of the Insect Sciences Museum of California, who wrote about dragonflies; and Bev Ortiz of the East Bay Regional Park District, who wrote about the Huchiun people.
Tom Gehling contributed drawings of invasive plants, and Linda Yamane contributed a drawing of a tule dwelling.
The Rotary signs are the first set of signs to be installed in the Hillside Natural Area. Next up are signs designed for us by the National Park Service that will mark each trail.
The first of those to go in will be the large Gateway sign at the Schmidt Lane trailhead of the Forest Brown Trail. And guess who is paying for that one?
El Cerrito Rotary.
Thanks!
Virtual Hillside Tree Hike led by David Ackerly
David Ackerly, dean of the Rausser College of Natural Resources at UC Berkeley, leads this illustrated tour of the trees of the Hillside with an eye to how climate change is already at work both worldwide and in our city. The hour-long tour will help you identify the various native and introduced trees, and will provoke thought as David delves into how the natural and civilized worlds are reacting, or may react, as our climate changes.
He discusses how climate and climate change influences native trees, adaptations and responses of different species to fire, and the mix of native and non-native species in the Hillside Natural Area. How will the mix of species change? How should naturalists and policy makers act or react?
David has led this hike for Trekkers both in actuality, and virtually. Naturally, we always prefer getting out into the real world of nature. But you know what? With a virtual tour you can pause, ponder, focus on details.
Once covid is gone Trekkers will be back to real hikes, and we are looking forward to Professor Ackerly leading another for us. Meanwhile, enjoy this on your favorite device.
Hillside Tree Hike, Part 1: https://youtu.be/D791iQFZNws
Hillside Tree Hike, Part 2: https://youtu.be/xezp6h-izy4
He discusses how climate and climate change influences native trees, adaptations and responses of different species to fire, and the mix of native and non-native species in the Hillside Natural Area. How will the mix of species change? How should naturalists and policy makers act or react?
David has led this hike for Trekkers both in actuality, and virtually. Naturally, we always prefer getting out into the real world of nature. But you know what? With a virtual tour you can pause, ponder, focus on details.
Once covid is gone Trekkers will be back to real hikes, and we are looking forward to Professor Ackerly leading another for us. Meanwhile, enjoy this on your favorite device.
Hillside Tree Hike, Part 1: https://youtu.be/D791iQFZNws
Hillside Tree Hike, Part 2: https://youtu.be/xezp6h-izy4
|
EL CERRITO TRAIL MAP AVAILABLE
Ten years ago when Trail Trekkers first formed, one of our goals was to produce a comprehensive map to the trails of El Cerrito that everyone in town could own and carry with them. The map is provided free to members. Trekker membership is $20.00 a year for family or $1,000.00 for a lifetime membership. Maps can also be purchased for $6 each, which includes tax, by sending a check to Pam Austin, Trail Trekker treasurer, 834 Kearney St., El Cerrito CA 94530. Space does not permit us to thank all of those who helped. Let me start with Steve Bowes, a National Park Service planner and El Cerrito resident who – get this! – first contacted Trekkers in June 2010, before the organization had actually formed during our initial meeting. |
Trekkers Wade Huntley and Tom Gehling give the trail map its final printers proofing before giving the go-ahead to the printer.
|
“I’m not sure if I will be able to attend the July 15th El Cerrito Trails Working Group meeting,” Steve wrote, “but I am hoping that you could alert the group to the possibility of applying for assistance with the National Park Service.”
Well, we did apply for assistance and Steve got the job of assisting us and the first thing he did was develop the map that we have refined over the years. Steve has remained involved as an individual, long after official NPS assistance ran out.
Carol Langhauser and Tom Gehling did the work of shepherding the map to completion. Jan Byers, a superb designer, integrated map with photos and text.
And don’t think we have forgotten the several dozen volunteers who, in the early years of Trail Trekkers, walked every path in the city to measure, plot, and describe their parameters. Truly, this map is a community effort.
Well, we did apply for assistance and Steve got the job of assisting us and the first thing he did was develop the map that we have refined over the years. Steve has remained involved as an individual, long after official NPS assistance ran out.
Carol Langhauser and Tom Gehling did the work of shepherding the map to completion. Jan Byers, a superb designer, integrated map with photos and text.
And don’t think we have forgotten the several dozen volunteers who, in the early years of Trail Trekkers, walked every path in the city to measure, plot, and describe their parameters. Truly, this map is a community effort.
Help Fund Trekkers in 2020
Signs, signs – and more signs: Help Trekkers pay for them
Signs, signs – and more signs: Help Trekkers pay for them
|
As El Cerrito Trail Trekkers happily winds up its 10th year as a non-profit organization, you our members have much to brag about. Thanks to you, we have:
Please take part in our annual year-end fundraising campaign. We use funds to buy tools and equipment, pay for insurance, publicize our events and our causes, print maps and other materials, and put on events. In addition, starting in 2020, we are raising funds to pay for directional trail signs for the public trails and stairways that dot the city’s landscape outside of the Hillside Natural Area. This is an effort that will take several years – but if we don’t start now the signs may never be installed. So many people in town do not even know about these public paths. Many of these routes do not even appear to be public pathways – unless you are in the know! The city is paying for the National Park Service-designed signs for the Hillside – but lacks funding for the non-Hillside trails. The signs would be of metal, are designed to be vandal-proof, and would be mounted on posts. Your donations will support these wayfaring signs and other Trekker projects. Trekkers continues to advocate for preservation of open space, including Fairview Open Space adjacent to the Hillside Area, where a developer wants to build homes. To donate, send a check made out to ECCF (El Cerrito Community Foundation, our fiscal sponsor), with “Trail Trekkers” in the message line, to our treasurer, Pam Austin, 834 Kearney St., El Cerrito, 94530. Donations are tax deductible as allowed by law. Help Fund Trekkers in 2020 |
|
UPCOMING EVENTS
- El Cerrito Trail Trekkers Board Meeting
September 10, 2022 at 10:30 am – 12:00 pm. If you wish to attend this Zoom meeting, please contact Dave Weinstein for instructions, [email protected]. The Board of Directors of the El Cerrito Trail Trekkers meets on the second Saturday of each month. The public is welcome to attend. - Baxter Creek Work Party
September 11, 2022 at 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. Conlon Ave & Ohlone Greenway, El Cerrito, CA 94530, USA. Join city staff and volunteers in this park jewel on the Ohlone Greenway to remove litter and invasive plants. All are welcome (under 18 with guardian). Please wear long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Bring water. No bathrooms at the park. RSVP: [email protected] or 510-215-4350 - Baxter Creek Work Party
December 4, 2022 at 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Conlon Avenue and the Ohlone Greenway. Please join city staff and other volunteers at Baxter Creek Gateway Park in this jewel on the Ohlone Greenway. The activities will include litter removal, invasive plant removal and native plant care. Allages are welcome (under 18 with guardian). Please wear long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Bring water. The city will provide tools, bags, gloves, and sanitizer. There…
Janet Gawthrop is a dedicated naturalist who has led
several hikes for Trekkers. Photo by Dave Weinstein Photo by Dave Weinstein
|
Rotary Interpretive/Native Plant Walk
Sunday, July 31, 2022 10 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Join us in the Hillside Natural Area for a walk along the Rotary Interpretive Walk, visiting signs that provide information on geology, plants, animals, and insects of the area. Learn about plants along the way with Janet Gawthrop, field trip coordinator for the East Bay chapter of the California Native Plant Society, who maintains volunteer weeding sites in East Bay Regional parks. We will walk about 2 miles at a leisurely pace with one steep climb at the start. Meet: Schmidt Lane trailhead, near the Recycling Center Information: Dave Weinstein, 510-529-5432, [email protected] |
Huber Park, with rock outcrops and live oaks, is a beautiful tribute to one of El Cerrito’s founders. Photo by Dave Weinstein
The William Huber Sesquicentennial Hike. Meet at 11 a.m. Saturday, January 8, 2022, at Well Grounded Coffee and Tea, 6925 Stockton Avenue, for a two and a half hour hike through Huber Park, up many sometimes steep urban stairways and paths, past historic homes and mighty outcrops of rock, then downhill through the Hillside. We honor Huber (1872-1965), one of El Cerrito’s founders, a lawyer, gold miner, and civic leader on what would be his 150th birthday. Dave Weinstein leads the hike. All Trekker hikes are free.
A wonderful citizen science generated guide to flora and fauna in the Hillside Natural Area can be enjoyed online and enhanced using iNaturalist.
Learn about iNaturalist and animals and plants in our Hillside at Trekkers’ Annual Meeting on Saturday February 5. Alan Siegel demonstrate how to use the free iNaturalist app, an ideal and easy way for learning about plants, insects and animals in the Hillside Natural Area. It’s a great tool for both children and adults.
We will look at plants that have edible, medicinal and cultural uses and stories. We will see how iNaturalist can be used for public education and in elementary and secondary schools for both biological and cultural studies. Possible future projects using I-Naturalist will also be discussed.
If you have time before the meeting, check out: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/what-lives-in-the-el-cerrito-hillside-natural-area?tab=species. To sign up for iNaturalist, which is funded by National Geographic and the California Academy of Sciences: A Community for Naturalists · iNaturalist.
The program will be part of our Annual Meeting. We will also briefly discuss Trekkers’ work during 2021, and our projects for 2022. Leaders of the group will take questions, and we are open to public comments. We will also elect officers. Interested in serving? Let us know.
2 p.m., Saturday, February 5. The meeting starts at 2, followed by Alan’s talk, around 2:15. Via Zoom:
Topic: Trail Trekkers Annual Meeting
Time: Feb 5, 2022 02:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
We will look at plants that have edible, medicinal and cultural uses and stories. We will see how iNaturalist can be used for public education and in elementary and secondary schools for both biological and cultural studies. Possible future projects using I-Naturalist will also be discussed.
If you have time before the meeting, check out: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/what-lives-in-the-el-cerrito-hillside-natural-area?tab=species. To sign up for iNaturalist, which is funded by National Geographic and the California Academy of Sciences: A Community for Naturalists · iNaturalist.
The program will be part of our Annual Meeting. We will also briefly discuss Trekkers’ work during 2021, and our projects for 2022. Leaders of the group will take questions, and we are open to public comments. We will also elect officers. Interested in serving? Let us know.
2 p.m., Saturday, February 5. The meeting starts at 2, followed by Alan’s talk, around 2:15. Via Zoom:
Topic: Trail Trekkers Annual Meeting
Time: Feb 5, 2022 02:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Sunset Ramble in the Hills
Saturday, November 20, 2021
2:30-5 p.m.
Back by popular demand, an evening hike through the Hillside Natural Area and Motorcycle Hill. The hike is 3.7 miles and 800 feet elevation gain. We will walk at a moderate pace, with breaks enjoy views and conversation.
Meet: Memorial Grove entrance on Schmidt Lane, Hillside Natural Area, near Recycling Center, 7501 Schmidt.
Contact: Dave Weinstein, 510-524-1737, [email protected].
All participants understand that certain risks are inherent in this activity, and engage in the activity at their own risk.
Saturday, November 20, 2021
2:30-5 p.m.
Back by popular demand, an evening hike through the Hillside Natural Area and Motorcycle Hill. The hike is 3.7 miles and 800 feet elevation gain. We will walk at a moderate pace, with breaks enjoy views and conversation.
Meet: Memorial Grove entrance on Schmidt Lane, Hillside Natural Area, near Recycling Center, 7501 Schmidt.
Contact: Dave Weinstein, 510-524-1737, [email protected].
All participants understand that certain risks are inherent in this activity, and engage in the activity at their own risk.
Cub Scouts help rescue Hillside habitat
Hardworking young Cub Scouts from El Cerrito’s Pack 104 leaned into their weed wrenches with enthusiasm Sunday, March 14, to remove a forest of invasive French broom from El Cerrito’s Hillside Natural Area.
The event is an ongoing effort by the city’s Environmental Quality Committee’s Green Team and El Cerrito Trail Trekkers. Other volunteers from all walks of life were there as well, 20-plus, masked, distanced, hard working people – your neighbors.
Care to join us? Future events run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 3 and 18. Rsvps required, [email protected]. Meet at the end of Regency Court. Wear masks, bring water. We provide tools and easy instruction.
Acres and acres at the Hillside’s Madera Open Space have been covered by this yellow-flowered weed for years. But we are making headway, providing light and habitat for local live oaks and other native plants to flourish.
Clean up El Cerrito’s Southern Entryways
Join our friends, El Cerrito’s Green Teams, as we clean up Central Park, San Pablo Avenue and nearby streets. We may even get to Cerrito Creek — let’s keep litter from polluting our creeks and bay! Attendance limited. Wear a mask. Keep your distance. All ages welcome (under 18 with guardian). Wear a hat and bring gloves and water. The Green Teams supply tools and bags. During the pandemic, RSVP is required to (510) 215-4350 or [email protected]. Saturday, April 24, 2021, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meet at the park entry, corner of El Dorado and Santa Clara Streets.
Plant walking: A Healing Ritual
Edible and medicinal plants of the El Cerrito Natural Area. Learn interesting stories about how native plants have been used over the centuries and currently, for food, medicine, and crafts by Indigenous People locally and globally (ethnobotany). Gain nourishment and “virtual steps,” increase your connection to nature and motivation to preserve our precious open spaces. Led by Alan Siegel, a volunteer docent at the EBRPD Tilden Botanic Garden. April 11, 2021, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The Zoom link is: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88204987497?pwd=U
Hardworking young Cub Scouts from El Cerrito’s Pack 104 leaned into their weed wrenches with enthusiasm Sunday, March 14, to remove a forest of invasive French broom from El Cerrito’s Hillside Natural Area.
The event is an ongoing effort by the city’s Environmental Quality Committee’s Green Team and El Cerrito Trail Trekkers. Other volunteers from all walks of life were there as well, 20-plus, masked, distanced, hard working people – your neighbors.
Care to join us? Future events run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 3 and 18. Rsvps required, [email protected]. Meet at the end of Regency Court. Wear masks, bring water. We provide tools and easy instruction.
Acres and acres at the Hillside’s Madera Open Space have been covered by this yellow-flowered weed for years. But we are making headway, providing light and habitat for local live oaks and other native plants to flourish.
Clean up El Cerrito’s Southern Entryways
Join our friends, El Cerrito’s Green Teams, as we clean up Central Park, San Pablo Avenue and nearby streets. We may even get to Cerrito Creek — let’s keep litter from polluting our creeks and bay! Attendance limited. Wear a mask. Keep your distance. All ages welcome (under 18 with guardian). Wear a hat and bring gloves and water. The Green Teams supply tools and bags. During the pandemic, RSVP is required to (510) 215-4350 or [email protected]. Saturday, April 24, 2021, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meet at the park entry, corner of El Dorado and Santa Clara Streets.
Plant walking: A Healing Ritual
Edible and medicinal plants of the El Cerrito Natural Area. Learn interesting stories about how native plants have been used over the centuries and currently, for food, medicine, and crafts by Indigenous People locally and globally (ethnobotany). Gain nourishment and “virtual steps,” increase your connection to nature and motivation to preserve our precious open spaces. Led by Alan Siegel, a volunteer docent at the EBRPD Tilden Botanic Garden. April 11, 2021, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The Zoom link is: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88204987497?pwd=U
Hikers enjoyed one of Alina Constantinescu’s earlier evening rambles given with Trail Trekkers. Photo by Dave Weinstein
Scenic Loop plus Light Volunteering
Sunday, November 21, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Help nature on a scenic loop in the Hillside Natural Area, with great views. Join El Cerrito Trail Trekkers and Friends of Five Creeks on a scenic loop walk in the El Cerrito Hillside Natural Area, with light-duty volunteering. We’ll talk about nature and history while removing seedlings of flammable French broom. Sunday, November 21, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes with good traction. Bring a re-usable water bottle and gloves if you have them. (We have plenty.) The total distance is less than two miles, but some stretches are steep. Heavy rain cancels. More information: [email protected].
Attendance at this event is limited. Please sign up through eventbrite.
Trekker’s member barbecue was blessed with ideal weather
Forty people, including city councilman Gabe Quinto, attended Trekker’s Barbecue at Arlington Park in October. Food was great and the company better. Social events like this are a great way to meet people who love the city’s trails and open spaces, and work to preserve them. We plan another social occasion for the holiday season. Hope to see you there. As always, you can join at the door.
Forty people, including city councilman Gabe Quinto, attended Trekker’s Barbecue at Arlington Park in October. Food was great and the company better. Social events like this are a great way to meet people who love the city’s trails and open spaces, and work to preserve them. We plan another social occasion for the holiday season. Hope to see you there. As always, you can join at the door.
A Four Parks Stroll
Saturday, August 28, 2021 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or so
Enjoy a pleasant, at-times steep, 90-minute to two-hour stroll through two of our city’s favorite parks and two in Richmond. See fine homes, several creeks, rock outcrops, public art and other wonders. Wear hiking shoes. Unvaccinated? Wear a mask.
Meet: Bottom of Poinsett Park, corner of Poinsett and Harris avenues
Leader: Dave Weinstein, 510-529-5432, [email protected]
Saturday, August 28, 2021 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or so
Enjoy a pleasant, at-times steep, 90-minute to two-hour stroll through two of our city’s favorite parks and two in Richmond. See fine homes, several creeks, rock outcrops, public art and other wonders. Wear hiking shoes. Unvaccinated? Wear a mask.
Meet: Bottom of Poinsett Park, corner of Poinsett and Harris avenues
Leader: Dave Weinstein, 510-529-5432, [email protected]
Kristianna Bertelsen displays her winning certificate. Winners got gift certificates to local businesses. Kristianna won first place in the adult category.
Trekkers celebrates haiku contest winners withits first live hike since Covid
Winners of our Hillside Festival haiku contest attended our recent haiku hike — the first live hike we have put on since the start of the pandemic. It will prove to be the first of many more. Two dozen people attended this cool and foggy hike.
Winners of our Hillside Festival haiku contest attended our recent haiku hike — the first live hike we have put on since the start of the pandemic. It will prove to be the first of many more. Two dozen people attended this cool and foggy hike.
Maya C. wins applause for her first place haiku.
Not only did we hear each of the winning short poems – mostly by their authors – we enjoyed a hearty stroll through the Hillside Area, learning about its history, and getting to know each other.
For more on the haiku contest and to read the short poems, click here.
For more on the haiku contest and to read the short poems, click here.
Two dozen people attended the start of the hike. More than half of them stayed for its entire length. We all enjoyed the haiku.
Quarry Hill in the Hillside Natural Area
|
The virtual Hillside Fest 2021 was a big success. Find out more and watch videos of some of the events here.
El Cerrito Trail Trekkers is restoring a large network of pedestrian and bicycle paths, trails and steps for the enjoyment of the community.
A group of some 20 people and a couple of dogs stand or sit around a picnic table under an oak tree eating. They look like they're enjoying the food. Saturday, October 16, 2021 Members’ Appreciation Barbecue Join at the event! Please attend Trekkers’ barbecue to meet some of the most interesting people around, learn about trails and open space, enjoy chicken, grilled vegetables, a range of beverages, and desserts. Bring food and beverage if you wish, but we will have plenty. Family membership is $20 annually, and we appreciate our members! Meet: Picnic Area One, Arlington Park, El Cerrito Time: 5 p.m. till whenever Rsvp: [email protected] |
Haiku Hike Saturday, July 24, 2021 10 a.m. to noon
Let’s celebrate Trekkers’ first live hike since the pandemic hit – and celebrate winners of the haiku contest at the recent (via Zoom) Hillside Festival. Winning contestants will be awarded their prizes and will read their haiku, which were inspired by the beauty of our Hillside park. We’ll stretch our legs for three miles, with some steep sections. There are convenient places to turn around early.
Let’s celebrate Trekkers’ first live hike since the pandemic hit – and celebrate winners of the haiku contest at the recent (via Zoom) Hillside Festival. Winning contestants will be awarded their prizes and will read their haiku, which were inspired by the beauty of our Hillside park. We’ll stretch our legs for three miles, with some steep sections. There are convenient places to turn around early.
Kristianna Bertelsen, Haiku Contest winner
Congratulations to first-place adult category winner Kristianna Bertelsen and first-place children’s category winner Maya C.
Find out the second- and third-place winners, read the winning entries and all the entries here.
Meet: Schmidt Lane entrance to the Hillside Natural Area
Contact: Dave Weinstein, 510-524-1737, [email protected]
Find out the second- and third-place winners, read the winning entries and all the entries here.
Meet: Schmidt Lane entrance to the Hillside Natural Area
Contact: Dave Weinstein, 510-524-1737, [email protected]
Hillside Fest 2021 is virtual–and awesome!
Enjoy a virtual and self guided Hillside Festival throughout the month of May, Several “live” events using Zoom will allow you to meet and chat with birders and naturalists. Check out the schedule.
A Cub Scout rips out invasive broom by its root. Photo by Dave Weinstein
Broom with a View!
Trekkers and Green Teams have been making tremendous progress in removing invasive broom plants from the Hillside Natural Area. Whole areas in the Hillside’s Madera Open Space that were inaccessible due to dense growth are now open, benefiting live oak saplings and other native habitat – and providing new views.
Please join us on our next two work parties. Gather at the end of Regency Court at 10 a.m. Saturday April 3, and the same time Sunday April 18. We will work till about 1 p.m. Broom pulling is satisfying work, your companions will be among the most interesting in the area, and training takes about three minutes. We will distance ourselves and wear masks. Bring water. We supply tools. Rsvp required, [email protected].
Trekkers and Green Teams have been making tremendous progress in removing invasive broom plants from the Hillside Natural Area. Whole areas in the Hillside’s Madera Open Space that were inaccessible due to dense growth are now open, benefiting live oak saplings and other native habitat – and providing new views.
Please join us on our next two work parties. Gather at the end of Regency Court at 10 a.m. Saturday April 3, and the same time Sunday April 18. We will work till about 1 p.m. Broom pulling is satisfying work, your companions will be among the most interesting in the area, and training takes about three minutes. We will distance ourselves and wear masks. Bring water. We supply tools. Rsvp required, [email protected].
A volunteer uses a weed wrench to remove broom at the Trekkers November work party. Photo by Dave Weinstein
December Broom Pull Postponed to a date to be determined in January due to Covid prevention rules.
Trekkers is teaming up with the city’s Green Teams in December to haul and pull more invasive French broom from the Madera Open Space area of the Hillside Natural Area. Please join us at this rsvp-required event. RSVP to [email protected]. Social distancing will be observed.
Date in January to be determined at a future time.
Bring water and wear a mask. Tools, gloves and good cheer will b provided. We will meet on Madera Circle just below Madera Elementary School.
Now that we have had some rain it will be easier to pull up this noxious plant that has harmed much habitat.
Trekkers is teaming up with the city’s Green Teams in December to haul and pull more invasive French broom from the Madera Open Space area of the Hillside Natural Area. Please join us at this rsvp-required event. RSVP to [email protected]. Social distancing will be observed.
Date in January to be determined at a future time.
Bring water and wear a mask. Tools, gloves and good cheer will b provided. We will meet on Madera Circle just below Madera Elementary School.
Now that we have had some rain it will be easier to pull up this noxious plant that has harmed much habitat.
2021 Trekkers Annual Meeting
Join us at the El Cerrito Trail Trekkers Annual Meeting. On Sunday, January 24 at 4 PM, Trekkers will host a virtual hike in the Hillside Natural Area along the Rotary Interpretive Walk. The trail features a series of informational signs installed a few months ago that were made possible by the El Cerrito Rotary Club.
Trekkers board members Wade Huntley and Barbara Lass will lead the way with photos of the signs and views. We will be joined by geologist Gary Prost, entomologist Eddie Dunbar, and birder and wildlife photographer Tara McIntire, who will tell us more about the geology, insects, and birds of the Hillside area. The Rotary Interpretive Walk is a great addition to the Hillside area, and this presentation will encourage all of us to get out and enjoy the trails this winter.
The “walk” will follow a 15-minute business meeting that will see a treasury report, public comment, a brief discussion of accomplishments and goals, and election of officers.
Topic: Trail Trekkers Annual Meeting
Time: Jan 24, 2021 04:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
https://nps-edu.zoomgov.com/j/1601375755
Trekkers board members Wade Huntley and Barbara Lass will lead the way with photos of the signs and views. We will be joined by geologist Gary Prost, entomologist Eddie Dunbar, and birder and wildlife photographer Tara McIntire, who will tell us more about the geology, insects, and birds of the Hillside area. The Rotary Interpretive Walk is a great addition to the Hillside area, and this presentation will encourage all of us to get out and enjoy the trails this winter.
The “walk” will follow a 15-minute business meeting that will see a treasury report, public comment, a brief discussion of accomplishments and goals, and election of officers.
Topic: Trail Trekkers Annual Meeting
Time: Jan 24, 2021 04:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
https://nps-edu.zoomgov.com/j/1601375755
Trekkers presents its slate of officers and seeks nominations.
Are you interested in helping preserve and expand El Cerrito’s network of trails and open spaces? We are open to nominations for membership on the Trekkers board of directors. Nominate yourself, or a friend (if that person has agreed to serve).
Our bylaws authorize a board of up to 10 members and our slate only has five, so don’t be concerned about a tight, disputed race. An ideal board member is committed to the cause of improving life in El Cerrito through trails and open space, and has time and energy. The board meets the second Saturday of the month from 10:30 to noon.
We would particularly welcome people who want to lead trail building and other work parties, or are interesting in raising funds to buy open space. But anyone interested in trails is encouraged to consider board membership.
Interested? [email protected]. Nominations are accepted now to the time of the meeting.
Our slate of officers. All current board members would like to remain on the board. We are happy to announce a new member of our slate, Melisssa Hobbs.
Dave Weinstein, president. One of the founders of Trail Trekkers, he is a longtime El Cerrito journalist, a member of the city’s Environmental Quality Committee, president of the El Cerrito Historical Society, and a founder of Friends of the Cerrito Theater.
Wade Huntley is a 21-year El Cerrito resident, a one-time avid backpacker and snow mountaineer, and a committed advocate of environmental preservation. He greatly appreciates the opportunity Trail Trekkers provides to help preserve and enhance use of El Cerrito open spaces. He is on the faculty of the National Security Affairs department at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey.
Pam Austin. Pam Austin is treasurer of the Trekkers and coordinates the hikes offered by the Trekkers. She is retired after about 30 years in human resources and earlier this year she became a Master Gardener.
Barbara Lass, secretary. “I am a 20 year resident of El Cerrito. I teach anthropology at City College of San Francisco, and my specialty within the field of anthropology is archaeology. I’ve been on the Trail Trekkers board (secretary) for about 2 ½ years. Wade and I enjoy hiking the trails of the Hillside Natural Area and elsewhere in El Cerrito and the East Bay.”
Clare Sheridan, member at large. Clare, her husband and teenage son enjoy walking out their front door and being on one of El Cerrito’s many trails in just a few minutes. She works as an analyst at the University of California’s Office of the President. She is grateful for all of the work that El Cerrito Trail Trekkers has done to make El Cerrito a wonderful place to live and is looking forward to continuing this work.
Melissa Hobbs comes from five generations of women who moved back and forth between Ohio and California. The first generations on both sides came by wagon train in the 1850’s. She has been involved in the environmental movement since April 22, 1970. After earning a BA degree at Kent State University in Ohio, she migrated to California, raised a family in the wilds of western Sonoma County, and worked for the State of California as an assistant claims manager before marrying Albany and her husband Tom in 2010. She is a storyteller, writer, poet and hiker.
Have you renewed your membership? It only costs $20 annually to belong to Trekkers, and $1,000 buys a life membership. Please renew now or join by going to our website and downloading the membership form.
And consider an additional donation as well. Funds go for trail work, to install trail signs, for a fund to purchase additional open space, as well as incidental expenses. Donations are tax deductible as allowed by law.
Our bylaws authorize a board of up to 10 members and our slate only has five, so don’t be concerned about a tight, disputed race. An ideal board member is committed to the cause of improving life in El Cerrito through trails and open space, and has time and energy. The board meets the second Saturday of the month from 10:30 to noon.
We would particularly welcome people who want to lead trail building and other work parties, or are interesting in raising funds to buy open space. But anyone interested in trails is encouraged to consider board membership.
Interested? [email protected]. Nominations are accepted now to the time of the meeting.
Our slate of officers. All current board members would like to remain on the board. We are happy to announce a new member of our slate, Melisssa Hobbs.
Dave Weinstein, president. One of the founders of Trail Trekkers, he is a longtime El Cerrito journalist, a member of the city’s Environmental Quality Committee, president of the El Cerrito Historical Society, and a founder of Friends of the Cerrito Theater.
Wade Huntley is a 21-year El Cerrito resident, a one-time avid backpacker and snow mountaineer, and a committed advocate of environmental preservation. He greatly appreciates the opportunity Trail Trekkers provides to help preserve and enhance use of El Cerrito open spaces. He is on the faculty of the National Security Affairs department at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey.
Pam Austin. Pam Austin is treasurer of the Trekkers and coordinates the hikes offered by the Trekkers. She is retired after about 30 years in human resources and earlier this year she became a Master Gardener.
Barbara Lass, secretary. “I am a 20 year resident of El Cerrito. I teach anthropology at City College of San Francisco, and my specialty within the field of anthropology is archaeology. I’ve been on the Trail Trekkers board (secretary) for about 2 ½ years. Wade and I enjoy hiking the trails of the Hillside Natural Area and elsewhere in El Cerrito and the East Bay.”
Clare Sheridan, member at large. Clare, her husband and teenage son enjoy walking out their front door and being on one of El Cerrito’s many trails in just a few minutes. She works as an analyst at the University of California’s Office of the President. She is grateful for all of the work that El Cerrito Trail Trekkers has done to make El Cerrito a wonderful place to live and is looking forward to continuing this work.
Melissa Hobbs comes from five generations of women who moved back and forth between Ohio and California. The first generations on both sides came by wagon train in the 1850’s. She has been involved in the environmental movement since April 22, 1970. After earning a BA degree at Kent State University in Ohio, she migrated to California, raised a family in the wilds of western Sonoma County, and worked for the State of California as an assistant claims manager before marrying Albany and her husband Tom in 2010. She is a storyteller, writer, poet and hiker.
Have you renewed your membership? It only costs $20 annually to belong to Trekkers, and $1,000 buys a life membership. Please renew now or join by going to our website and downloading the membership form.
And consider an additional donation as well. Funds go for trail work, to install trail signs, for a fund to purchase additional open space, as well as incidental expenses. Donations are tax deductible as allowed by law.
A volunteer uses a weed wrench to remove broom at the Trekkers November work party. Photo by Dave Weinstein
December Broom Pull Postponed to a date to be determined in January due to Covid prevention rules.
Trekkers is teaming up with the city’s Green Teams in December to haul and pull more invasive French broom from the Madera Open Space area of the Hillside Natural Area. Please join us at this rsvp-required event. RSVP to [email protected]. Social distancing will be observed. Date in January to be announced.
Bring water and wear a mask. Tools, gloves and good cheer will b provided. We will meet on Madera Circle just below Madera Elementary School.
Now that we have had some rain it will be easier to pull up this noxious plant that has harmed much habitat.
Bring water and wear a mask. Tools, gloves and good cheer will b provided. We will meet on Madera Circle just below Madera Elementary School.
Now that we have had some rain it will be easier to pull up this noxious plant that has harmed much habitat.
Volunteers spent the morning of Halloween filling a dumpster with dead broom and other foliage debris, as well as by pulling broom plants. Photo by Dave Weinstein
|
Our broom bashing continues. Please join us! Last month nine volunteers managed to remove a vast amount of dead, invasive French broom from the Hillside Natural Area. Piles of the shrub from prior broom pulls remained in the Madera Open space section of the Hillside. Some still remains, and needs to go. Also, young, tender shoots of broom are emerging from the ground. Let’s pull them before they grow tall. We will supply tools, gloves, tarps, cold water and more. Sunday, Sept. 13, 2020, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Attendance limited. Wear a mask. Keep your distance. Enjoy! Meet at north end of Regency Court. Rsvp required: [email protected] |
Volunteers filled a large dumpster with dead French broom during last month’s Trekker broom pull.
|
Our broom bashing continues. Please join us! Last month nine volunteers managed to remove a vast amount of dead, invasive French broom from the Hillside Natural Area. Piles of the shrub from prior broom pulls remained in the Madera Open space section of the Hillside. Some still remains, and needs to go. Also, young, tender shoots of broom are emerging from the ground. Let’s pull them before they grow tall. We will supply tools, gloves, tarps, cold water and more. Sunday, Sept. 13, 2020, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Attendance limited. Wear a mask. Keep your distance. Enjoy! Meet at north end of Regency Court. Rsvp required: [email protected] |
Baxter Creek on the first Sunday of Coastal Cleanup Month was looking pretty good even before the cleanup. Photo by Melissa Hobbs.
Trail Trekkers and Green Teams kick off Coastal Cleanup Month
Trail Trekkers encourages all our members and friends to take part in Coastal Cleanup Month throughout September by cleaning trash in or near our city creeks, or from areas where trash may flow into creeks once the rains arrive.
Those areas could include your own neighborhood.
Because of pandemic restrictions, this year people are advised to work individually or with close cohorts. The trash can be placed in your home bins.
On Sunday September 6, Trekker and Green Team member Dave Weinstein showed how much can be accomplished even by a single individual and in only an hour and a half. He hauled away about 40 gallons of trash and a small bag filled with recyclable cans and bottles.
Baxter Creek, which flows through Baxter Creek Park, is a beautiful spot in town. The city’s arborist Stephen Prée working with Anne Ogonowski and other volunteers, have done so much to improve the habitat along this creek in recent years and it shows.
There really was not much trash in the creek or its beds Sunday, but what was there is gone. The west side of the creek showed evidence of two small, abandoned homeless sites, which were removed. (Green Teams never removes belongings of homeless people if there are signs that this property is being attended to.)
As always, cigarette butts made up a large proportion of the trash. Cigarette butts are made of plastic and contain chemicals and harm many creatures that ingest them.
If you do clean up an area during Cleanup Month, help us track our success by recording what you collect on the the CleanSwell app or by alerting cleanup coordinators at the City of El Cerrito, [email protected]. You can register in advance. Contact Stephen Prée at [email protected] or call 510-559-7685.
Those areas could include your own neighborhood.
Because of pandemic restrictions, this year people are advised to work individually or with close cohorts. The trash can be placed in your home bins.
On Sunday September 6, Trekker and Green Team member Dave Weinstein showed how much can be accomplished even by a single individual and in only an hour and a half. He hauled away about 40 gallons of trash and a small bag filled with recyclable cans and bottles.
Baxter Creek, which flows through Baxter Creek Park, is a beautiful spot in town. The city’s arborist Stephen Prée working with Anne Ogonowski and other volunteers, have done so much to improve the habitat along this creek in recent years and it shows.
There really was not much trash in the creek or its beds Sunday, but what was there is gone. The west side of the creek showed evidence of two small, abandoned homeless sites, which were removed. (Green Teams never removes belongings of homeless people if there are signs that this property is being attended to.)
As always, cigarette butts made up a large proportion of the trash. Cigarette butts are made of plastic and contain chemicals and harm many creatures that ingest them.
If you do clean up an area during Cleanup Month, help us track our success by recording what you collect on the the CleanSwell app or by alerting cleanup coordinators at the City of El Cerrito, [email protected]. You can register in advance. Contact Stephen Prée at [email protected] or call 510-559-7685.
|
Insects of Cerrito Creek
Saturday, July 25, 2020, 10 am
The Bay Area is home to many interesting forms of life. Join Trail Trekkers and Eddie Dunbar to learn about the insects in our own “back yard.” Eddie Dunbar, founder of the Insect Sciences Museum, will share photos and bug tales from local parks and open spaces, including some interesting ones from right here in El Cerrito. Got questions about bugs in your backyard? Take a photo and Eddie will identify it! For more information on the project, see https://www.bugpeople.org/. For more information on Trail Trekkers, see www.ectrailtrekkers.org. |
|
Peeks at Creeks
Sunday June 14, 2020, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Many creeks in El Cerrito are covered, but in its residential neighborhoods you can find exposed portions. In this “virtual walk” Barbara Lass and Wade Huntley will show you an El Cerrito walking route in which you can glimpse some of these special places along three creeks. They will also share information about our creeks and describe how you can use maps to follow buried creek beds and hunt for signs of creeks on your own.
To register for this event send an email to [email protected]. A confirmation with the Zoom link will be returned to you by email. Please do not forward this link to others, you can forward the email. |
Trees and Climate:
A Virtual Walking Tour of the El Cerrito Hillside Natural Area
Sunday, April 26, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m
Trail Trekkers looks forward to putting on real hikes in the Hillside Natural Area and elsewhere.The Hillside Natural Area remains open for hikers, and we strongly urge all who go there to maintain social distance and to wear a mask when passing people on the trail or otherwise in close proximity to people, as at trailheads.
Meanwhile, the leader of a hike we had scheduled for April 26 suggested that we do a virtual hike instead, rather than postponing it till the crisis passes. David Ackerly has led this hike for Trekkers before and he does a fascinating presentation based on his own field research, among other sources.
David Ackerly, Dean of the Rausser College of Natural Resources, will take us on a virtual, online tour of the El Cerrito Hillside Natural Area. Climbing from the Memorial Grove entrance on Schmidt Lane to one of the fire road viewpoints, he will discuss how climate and climate change influences native trees, adaptations and responses of different species to fire, and the mix of native and non-native species in the Hillside Natural Area.
A Virtual Walking Tour of the El Cerrito Hillside Natural Area
Sunday, April 26, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m
Trail Trekkers looks forward to putting on real hikes in the Hillside Natural Area and elsewhere.The Hillside Natural Area remains open for hikers, and we strongly urge all who go there to maintain social distance and to wear a mask when passing people on the trail or otherwise in close proximity to people, as at trailheads.
Meanwhile, the leader of a hike we had scheduled for April 26 suggested that we do a virtual hike instead, rather than postponing it till the crisis passes. David Ackerly has led this hike for Trekkers before and he does a fascinating presentation based on his own field research, among other sources.
David Ackerly, Dean of the Rausser College of Natural Resources, will take us on a virtual, online tour of the El Cerrito Hillside Natural Area. Climbing from the Memorial Grove entrance on Schmidt Lane to one of the fire road viewpoints, he will discuss how climate and climate change influences native trees, adaptations and responses of different species to fire, and the mix of native and non-native species in the Hillside Natural Area.
Sunday, March 15, 2020,
Peeks at Creeks
Cancelled Due to CDC guidance on gatherings of people.
Peeks at Creeks
Cancelled Due to CDC guidance on gatherings of people.
General Meeting and Election of Officers
The following individuals were elected to the board of directors of the Trekkers on Sunday, January 19, 2020, at 2:30 p.m. at the El Cerrito Community Center, 7007 Moeser Lane.
Dave Weinstein, president. One of the founders of Trail Trekkers, he is a longtime El Cerrito journalist, a member of the city’s Environmental Quality Committee, president of the El Cerrito Historical Society, and a founder of Friends of the Cerrito Theater.
Wade Huntley, vice president. Wade is a 20-year El Cerrito resident and life-long Bay Area denizen. He is in his second year on the Trail Trekkers board and is committed to the value of urban open space preservation. Wade also moonlights on the National Security Affairs faculty of the Naval Postgraduate School.
Pam Austin. Pam Austin is the vice president and treasurer of the Trekkers and coordinates the hikes offered by the Trekkers. She is retired after about 30 years in human resources and earlier this year she became a Master Gardener.
Barbara Lass, secretary. “I am a 20-year resident of El Cerrito. I teach anthropology at City College of San Francisco, and my specialty within the field of anthropology is archaeology. I’ve been on the Trail Trekkers board (secretary) for about 1 ½ years. Wade and I enjoy hiking the trails of the Hillside Natural Area and elsewhere in El Cerrito and the East Bay.”
Clare Sheridan, member at large. Clare, her husband and teenage son enjoy walking out their front door and being on one of El Cerrito’s many trails in just a few minutes. She works as an analyst at the University of California’s Office of the President. She is grateful for all of the work that El Cerrito Trail Trekkers has done to make El Cerrito a wonderful place to live and is looking forward to continuing this work.
Dave Weinstein, president. One of the founders of Trail Trekkers, he is a longtime El Cerrito journalist, a member of the city’s Environmental Quality Committee, president of the El Cerrito Historical Society, and a founder of Friends of the Cerrito Theater.
Wade Huntley, vice president. Wade is a 20-year El Cerrito resident and life-long Bay Area denizen. He is in his second year on the Trail Trekkers board and is committed to the value of urban open space preservation. Wade also moonlights on the National Security Affairs faculty of the Naval Postgraduate School.
Pam Austin. Pam Austin is the vice president and treasurer of the Trekkers and coordinates the hikes offered by the Trekkers. She is retired after about 30 years in human resources and earlier this year she became a Master Gardener.
Barbara Lass, secretary. “I am a 20-year resident of El Cerrito. I teach anthropology at City College of San Francisco, and my specialty within the field of anthropology is archaeology. I’ve been on the Trail Trekkers board (secretary) for about 1 ½ years. Wade and I enjoy hiking the trails of the Hillside Natural Area and elsewhere in El Cerrito and the East Bay.”
Clare Sheridan, member at large. Clare, her husband and teenage son enjoy walking out their front door and being on one of El Cerrito’s many trails in just a few minutes. She works as an analyst at the University of California’s Office of the President. She is grateful for all of the work that El Cerrito Trail Trekkers has done to make El Cerrito a wonderful place to live and is looking forward to continuing this work.
Saturday, March 7, 2020 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Tenth Anniversary Lost Trails, Fine Homes Hike
Tenth Anniversary Lost Trails, Fine Homes Hike
We don’t actually remember the exact route of the first Trail Trekkers hike but will try to recreate it. This will be an at-times steep two hour walk that will go into the Hillside and through neighborhoods. We’ll talk about El Cerrito history, architecture, natural history, and more as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of Trekkers’ founding.
Meet: Northwest corner of Moeser and Shevlin, Leader: Dave Weinstein, [email protected]
Meet: Northwest corner of Moeser and Shevlin, Leader: Dave Weinstein, [email protected]
Saturday, Feb. 15, 2020, 10 AM – 12:30 PM
Bash fire-prone French broom in El Cerrito’s Hillside Natural Area
Join F5C and El Cerrito Green Teams as we keep up the pressure on fire-prone French broom in the El Cerrito Hillside Natural Area’s 100 acres of oak groves, meadows, and stunning views. Tools gloves, snacks, and good company provided!
Meet at 10 AM at the north end of Regency Court, 1581 Regency Court on Internet maps. From Contra Costa Drive, take Kent Drive downhill, take the first right onto Regency Court, and continue to the cul-de-sac. Map here. Info here. Heavy rain cancels.
Middle-school and up welcome; youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Bring a re-usable water bottle and wear long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toed shoes with good traction.
Meet at 10 AM at the north end of Regency Court, 1581 Regency Court on Internet maps. From Contra Costa Drive, take Kent Drive downhill, take the first right onto Regency Court, and continue to the cul-de-sac. Map here. Info here. Heavy rain cancels.
Middle-school and up welcome; youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Bring a re-usable water bottle and wear long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toed shoes with good traction.
Sunday, February 2, 2020 2 to 4 p.m.
Poinsett to Tassajara and More
Poinsett to Tassajara and More
This will be a relaxing but often steep hike, visiting two of our favorite city parks and walking on seven different urban pathways. We’ll talk about El Cerrito history, architecture, natural history, and more.
Meet: Bottom of Poinsett Park, corner of Poinsett and Harris avenues, Leader: Dave Weinstein, 510-524-1737, [email protected]
Come on our Wintertime Creekside Hike
Saturday, January 11, 2020, 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Dave Weinstein will lead a hike to several creeks on this walk where, if it rains, all the better. We will visit several city parks and see some creek restoration, some delightful neighborhoods, some interesting architecture. Dress for wet weather and wear hiking shoes! Free.
Meet at Baxter Creek Park, Conlon and Key Boulevard.
Meet at Baxter Creek Park, Conlon and Key Boulevard.
Work party at Creekside Park
Saturday, January 18, 2020, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Cerrito Creek is a beautiful spot but it needs periodic care to remove trash. This is a great way to kick off the New Year and meet dedicated volunteers and naturalists.
All ages welcome (under 18 with guardian). Wear a hat and bring water. The creek is beautiful but needs some care. Sign up to volunteer today! Or simply show up. Interested in co-sponsoring a future cleanup? Let us know! (510) 215-4350| [email protected] or [email protected].
Meet at Creekside Park, 3499 Santa Clara Ave., El Cerrito
All ages welcome (under 18 with guardian). Wear a hat and bring water. The creek is beautiful but needs some care. Sign up to volunteer today! Or simply show up. Interested in co-sponsoring a future cleanup? Let us know! (510) 215-4350| [email protected] or [email protected].
Meet at Creekside Park, 3499 Santa Clara Ave., El Cerrito
Annual Members Appreciation Party Great Success
The leaders of Trail Trekkers enjoy meeting everyone who comes on our hikes or attends other events. Still, we especially appreciate those who go the extra step of joining Trekkers by paying $20 annually or $1,000 for a life membership.
That’s why we throw an annual love-the-members party! Trekkers members include some of the most interesting, welcoming and lively people you will ever meet.
That’s why we throw an annual love-the-members party! Trekkers members include some of the most interesting, welcoming and lively people you will ever meet.
|
Hillside Festival 2019 Attracts Hundreds
Eddie Dunbar holds the attention of young and old during his erudite yet lively-for-all walk that revealed much about the amazing insects that inhabit the Hillside Natural Area.
To see many more photos of this fascinating and fun-filled event, go here. |
Trekkers 2019 Annual Meeting
Remains of the Tubbs Fire in Santa Rosa, photo by Dave Weinstein
Trekkers will focus on fire prevention in 2019
Trail Trekkers kicked off its ninth year in existence last weekend with a wonderfully informative and challenging program by Cheryl Miller, executive coordinator of the Diablo Fire Safe Council, and Dave Gibson, El Cerrito’s fire marshal. The 75 people in attendance learned that wildland fires in El Cerrito and nearby threaten not only homes in the hill but those in the flatlands too. They learned about easy – and less easy – things that can be done to make their homes more fire safe. And they heard about efforts by the city and East Bay Regional Park District to reduce fire loads in the Hillside Natural Area, Wildcat and Tilden regional park, and elsewhere.
You can view Cheryl’s presentation here.
Throughout the year Trekkers will address this theme. Working with the El Cerrito Fire Department we will present two or more “Defensible Space” hikes, with fire prevention experts pointing out how homeowners can reduce the risk of their homes catching fire by reducing vegetation, planting it in the right spots, and watching out for vents and roofline entries that make it easier for fires to start.
In addition, during our 6th annual Hillside Festival, May 3-5, the city’s fire marshal, Dave Gibson, will lead a walk in the Hillside Natural Area focusing on what the city does now to reduce fire risk there and what can be done in the future.
You can view Cheryl’s presentation here.
Throughout the year Trekkers will address this theme. Working with the El Cerrito Fire Department we will present two or more “Defensible Space” hikes, with fire prevention experts pointing out how homeowners can reduce the risk of their homes catching fire by reducing vegetation, planting it in the right spots, and watching out for vents and roofline entries that make it easier for fires to start.
In addition, during our 6th annual Hillside Festival, May 3-5, the city’s fire marshal, Dave Gibson, will lead a walk in the Hillside Natural Area focusing on what the city does now to reduce fire risk there and what can be done in the future.
Trail Trekkers Annual Meeting
Sunday, January 19, 2020, 2:30 p.m.
Sunday, January 19, 2020, 2:30 p.m.
Restoring Unlikely Urban Environments
A presentation by Dr. Ann Riley
A presentation by Dr. Ann Riley
Ann Riley is a pioneer in restoring very degraded riparian corridors, including streams that have been undergrounded. These neighborhood scale projects have produced unlikely wild areas in densely populated cities, while reducing potential flood damage. Among projects she has worked on are several in El Cerrito, including Baxter Creek.
Ann is the author of Restoring Neighborhood Streams and Restoring Streams in Cities, and was featured in the PBS TV show Urban Nature. She has worked as a river scientist for the state of California for over 25 years and has been involved with non-profits since the early 1980s as cofounder of the Urban Creeks Council and California Urban Streams Partnership.
The presentation follows a short annual business meeting of Trail Trekkers. Vote for officers – or run for office! Enjoy light refreshments. Free!
El Cerrito Community Center, 7007 Moeser Lane, El Cerrito
Ann is the author of Restoring Neighborhood Streams and Restoring Streams in Cities, and was featured in the PBS TV show Urban Nature. She has worked as a river scientist for the state of California for over 25 years and has been involved with non-profits since the early 1980s as cofounder of the Urban Creeks Council and California Urban Streams Partnership.
The presentation follows a short annual business meeting of Trail Trekkers. Vote for officers – or run for office! Enjoy light refreshments. Free!
El Cerrito Community Center, 7007 Moeser Lane, El Cerrito
|
Help habitat in El Cerrito’s beautiful Hillside Natural Area. Saturday, November 16, 2019 10:00 am to 12:30 pm
We are partnering with the Friends of 5 Creeks to continue to remove French Broom from the Hillside. Middle-school and up welcome. Bring a re-usable water bottle and wear long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toed shoes with good traction — poison oak is always a possibility. Tools gloves, snacks, and good company provided! Meet at the north end of Regency Court. From Contra Costa Drive, take Kent Drive downhill, take the first right onto Regency Court, and continue to the cul-de-sac; 1581 Regency Court in Internet maps. Map here. Heavy rain cancels. |
|
El Cerrito and Kensington Ramble Sunday,
November 17, 2019 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
November 17, 2019 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
This hike starts off in the Hillside Natural Area and climbs and climbs and climbs – first through the Hillside fire trails, then the Shevlin staircases, Arlington Park and the Camp Herms trails. We’ll take breaks as needed to catch our breath and admire the views on the way. Once we reach the top, the hard part is over. We’ll enjoy our walk on Kensington Road to wonderful Ye Olde School Trail then along Kensington’s network of pathways and quiet streets as we make our way back towards the Hillside Natural Area. The route is 6 miles with about an 800 ft elevation gain, at a moderate pace, with breaks as needed. We will hike in fog and drizzle but heavy rain cancels.
Meet at the Schmidt Lane entrance to the Hillside Natural Area, 7500 Schmidt Lane.
Improve the Live Oak Trail Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019
Help us improve the Live Oak Trail. Portions of the beautiful Live Oak Trail near the Douglas Drive trailhead have been washing out over the years, making for bad footing. Portions are blocked by grasses. Join us as we smooth out the trail and cut back growth on Saturday, Oct. 5 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tools and camaraderie provided. Meet at the Douglas Drive Trailhead by 1524 Douglas Drive.
Meet at the Schmidt Lane entrance to the Hillside Natural Area, 7500 Schmidt Lane.
Improve the Live Oak Trail Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019
Help us improve the Live Oak Trail. Portions of the beautiful Live Oak Trail near the Douglas Drive trailhead have been washing out over the years, making for bad footing. Portions are blocked by grasses. Join us as we smooth out the trail and cut back growth on Saturday, Oct. 5 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tools and camaraderie provided. Meet at the Douglas Drive Trailhead by 1524 Douglas Drive.
CANCELLED —Fall Trees and Climate
Saturday, October 26, 2019, 10 am – Noon
We regret that it is necessary to cancel the Trees and Climate Hike scheduled for tomorrow.
David Ackerly, the hike leader, was notified today that PG&E will be shutting off power to the UC Berkeley campus tomorrow. As Dean of the Agriculture and Natural Resource School his primary responsibility is to manage the impact to research in the School’s buildings.
We will reschedule this hike as soon as possible.
A walking tour of the El Cerrito Hillside Natural Area
Back by popular demand – A climb from the Memorial Grove entrance on Schmidt Lane to one of the fire road viewpoints. We’ll discuss how climate and climate change influence native trees, adaptations and responses of different species to fire, and the mix of native and non-native species in the Hillside Natural Area. Led by David Ackerly, Dean of the College of Natural Resources at UC Berkeley.
Tree List
Saturday, October 26, 2019, 10 am – Noon
We regret that it is necessary to cancel the Trees and Climate Hike scheduled for tomorrow.
David Ackerly, the hike leader, was notified today that PG&E will be shutting off power to the UC Berkeley campus tomorrow. As Dean of the Agriculture and Natural Resource School his primary responsibility is to manage the impact to research in the School’s buildings.
We will reschedule this hike as soon as possible.
A walking tour of the El Cerrito Hillside Natural Area
Back by popular demand – A climb from the Memorial Grove entrance on Schmidt Lane to one of the fire road viewpoints. We’ll discuss how climate and climate change influence native trees, adaptations and responses of different species to fire, and the mix of native and non-native species in the Hillside Natural Area. Led by David Ackerly, Dean of the College of Natural Resources at UC Berkeley.
Tree List
Missile March
Saturday, October 19, 10 am – 3 pm, 2019
including one hour lunch break at site
In the 1950s and 1960s, two dozen Nike anti-aircraft missile sites crowned Bay Area hilltops. Join this hike to the remains of one such site in El Cerrito’s backyard, on San Pablo Ridge in Wildcat Canyon Regional Park. The hike from the trailhead covers a bit under five miles round-trip, including a descent into Wildcat Canyon and then a climb of about 700 feet to the site on the ridge top. We will take a lunch break at the site, during which hike leaders Wade Huntley (international security specialist) and Barbara Lass (archaeologist) will provide short presentations on the history, nuclear capability and archaeology of the Nike program and the full missile site complex. No actual marching required!
Meet at Rifle Range Road trailhead to Wildcat Canyon Regional Park.
Saturday, October 19, 10 am – 3 pm, 2019
including one hour lunch break at site
In the 1950s and 1960s, two dozen Nike anti-aircraft missile sites crowned Bay Area hilltops. Join this hike to the remains of one such site in El Cerrito’s backyard, on San Pablo Ridge in Wildcat Canyon Regional Park. The hike from the trailhead covers a bit under five miles round-trip, including a descent into Wildcat Canyon and then a climb of about 700 feet to the site on the ridge top. We will take a lunch break at the site, during which hike leaders Wade Huntley (international security specialist) and Barbara Lass (archaeologist) will provide short presentations on the history, nuclear capability and archaeology of the Nike program and the full missile site complex. No actual marching required!
Meet at Rifle Range Road trailhead to Wildcat Canyon Regional Park.
Bugs and Trekkers
El Cerrito Library El Cerrito Library, 5 p.m. Mon., Oct. 21
Eddie Dunbar fascinated young and old alike during an inset program at the El Cerrito Hillside Festival.
Trail Trekkers will take over part of the El Cerrito Library at 5 p.m. Monday, October 21. We will discuss our varied activities and – if all goes as planned – debut our printed trail map, which will be free for members and of small cost to others.
Our featured guest will be Eddie Dunbar the Bug Guy in a family friendly presentation. The Bay Area is home to many interesting forms of life. Insects of the San Francisco Bay Area is a project that has photographed insects for the past 20 years. Eddie, of the Insect Sciences Museum, will share photos and bug tales from local parks and open spaces, including some interesting ones from right here in El Cerrito.
The library is at 6510 Stockton Avenue and the event is free.
El Cerrito Library El Cerrito Library, 5 p.m. Mon., Oct. 21
Eddie Dunbar fascinated young and old alike during an inset program at the El Cerrito Hillside Festival.
Trail Trekkers will take over part of the El Cerrito Library at 5 p.m. Monday, October 21. We will discuss our varied activities and – if all goes as planned – debut our printed trail map, which will be free for members and of small cost to others.
Our featured guest will be Eddie Dunbar the Bug Guy in a family friendly presentation. The Bay Area is home to many interesting forms of life. Insects of the San Francisco Bay Area is a project that has photographed insects for the past 20 years. Eddie, of the Insect Sciences Museum, will share photos and bug tales from local parks and open spaces, including some interesting ones from right here in El Cerrito.
The library is at 6510 Stockton Avenue and the event is free.
Enjoy our annual Members Appreciation Party
Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019: The leaders of Trail Trekkers enjoy meeting everyone who comes on our hikes or attends other events. Still, we especially appreciate those who go the extra step of joining Trekkers by paying $20 annually or $1,000 for a life membership.
That’s why we throw an annual love-the-members party! Want to come but you’re not a member? Join at the door. We’ll provide plenty of food and lots to drink including beer, wine and variously flavored waters. Bring food to barbecue if desired. We supply the fire.
Trekkers members include some of the most interesting, welcoming and lively people you will ever meet.
4:30-7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22, in and around Arlington Park Clubhouse, 1120 Arlington Blvd. Rsvp please! [email protected].
Tom Gehling and Susan Schwartz flag areas of native habitat
Good news: Work that benefits fire safety and preserves native habitat.
Crews made repairs to several of the fire roads in the Hillside Natural Area. Roads were temporarily blocked to hikers and bikers at different times during the work.
The work was partially funded through a Federal Emergency Management Agency grant, and repaired erosion and other damages in part caused by severe winter weather in 2017. Repairs will make it easier for firefighting equipment to serve the area.
City officials gave Trekkers a heads up, so we surveyed the area to make sure that work would not damage sensitive native habitat. It was great watching Susan Schwartz of Friends of Five Creeks, and Tom Gehling of Trekkers investigate the route and discuss the areas of intact native habitat along the roads.
Our vice president, Pam Austin, conveyed what we learned to city officials – who took this information and walked the route themselves. We appreciate the care officials took both to improve fire safety and use of these fire roads, while working to safeguard the Hillside’s natural treasures.
Volunteers clear and level a Hillside trail
For years one of the most important trails in the Hillside Natural Area has been one of the hardest to negotiate. The Madera-to-Julian Trail (which, thankfully, will soon get a less cumbersome and more evocative name) was constructed by Trekkers five years ago – but never completed.
It’s still not completed, as a few treads are needed. But thanks to 10 hardy volunteers, this trail is now much easier to use. On August 24 we leveled out and widened portions of the trail, cleared debris and brush, and made parts that were overgrown clearly visible
We also removed a forest of small French broom plants that within a year would have been big French broom plants blocking the trail. We even tackled a couple of invasive pampas grass infestations.
We took care not to damage several areas of native habitat that are alongside the trail, with the aid of a knowledgeable naturalist who was part of our group.
This is a particularly important trail because it links the southern and northern sections of the Hillside Natural Area. It stretches from the lower meadow of the Madera Open Space to the Julian public stairs near Potrero Avenue.
Trekkers plans more such work parties in the future. Watch for announcements, and join us if you can.
Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019: The leaders of Trail Trekkers enjoy meeting everyone who comes on our hikes or attends other events. Still, we especially appreciate those who go the extra step of joining Trekkers by paying $20 annually or $1,000 for a life membership.
That’s why we throw an annual love-the-members party! Want to come but you’re not a member? Join at the door. We’ll provide plenty of food and lots to drink including beer, wine and variously flavored waters. Bring food to barbecue if desired. We supply the fire.
Trekkers members include some of the most interesting, welcoming and lively people you will ever meet.
4:30-7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22, in and around Arlington Park Clubhouse, 1120 Arlington Blvd. Rsvp please! [email protected].
Tom Gehling and Susan Schwartz flag areas of native habitat
Good news: Work that benefits fire safety and preserves native habitat.
Crews made repairs to several of the fire roads in the Hillside Natural Area. Roads were temporarily blocked to hikers and bikers at different times during the work.
The work was partially funded through a Federal Emergency Management Agency grant, and repaired erosion and other damages in part caused by severe winter weather in 2017. Repairs will make it easier for firefighting equipment to serve the area.
City officials gave Trekkers a heads up, so we surveyed the area to make sure that work would not damage sensitive native habitat. It was great watching Susan Schwartz of Friends of Five Creeks, and Tom Gehling of Trekkers investigate the route and discuss the areas of intact native habitat along the roads.
Our vice president, Pam Austin, conveyed what we learned to city officials – who took this information and walked the route themselves. We appreciate the care officials took both to improve fire safety and use of these fire roads, while working to safeguard the Hillside’s natural treasures.
Volunteers clear and level a Hillside trail
For years one of the most important trails in the Hillside Natural Area has been one of the hardest to negotiate. The Madera-to-Julian Trail (which, thankfully, will soon get a less cumbersome and more evocative name) was constructed by Trekkers five years ago – but never completed.
It’s still not completed, as a few treads are needed. But thanks to 10 hardy volunteers, this trail is now much easier to use. On August 24 we leveled out and widened portions of the trail, cleared debris and brush, and made parts that were overgrown clearly visible
We also removed a forest of small French broom plants that within a year would have been big French broom plants blocking the trail. We even tackled a couple of invasive pampas grass infestations.
We took care not to damage several areas of native habitat that are alongside the trail, with the aid of a knowledgeable naturalist who was part of our group.
This is a particularly important trail because it links the southern and northern sections of the Hillside Natural Area. It stretches from the lower meadow of the Madera Open Space to the Julian public stairs near Potrero Avenue.
Trekkers plans more such work parties in the future. Watch for announcements, and join us if you can.
San Francisco Pier Hike on August 26, 2019
Let’s leave town for a historical and scenic San Francisco Pier to Pier Hike. Years ago, finger piers reaching far into the sea formed the shorelines of many American cities. Most cities have lost their piers – but not San Francisco. Several have been restored and opened to the public – and more will see similar changes in the future. Visit these piers and learn their history and future history with Dave Weinstein as we walk from the Ferry Building to at least Pier 39’s sea lions. Meet on the bayside of the Ferry Building in front of Slanted Door restaurant, at the northern end of the building. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. August 26, Monday, with the option of staying a bit later for refreshments. Dress in layers.
A Three Parks Stroll.Saturday, July 27, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Meet at Poinsett Park, corner of Poinsett and Harris Ave. Enjoy a pleasant, at-times steep, 90-minute to two-hour stroll through two of our city’s favorite parks and one in Richmond. Also see fine homes, several creeks, rock outcrops, public art and other wonders. Led by Dave Weinstein.
Meet: Bottom of Poinsett Park, corner of Poinsett and Harris avenues
Easy Shoreline Walk. Friday, Aug. 2, 2019,10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Let’s enjoy a convivial walk along the Richmond Shoreline from Point Isabel in the direction of Marina Bay. Leader Dave Weinstein will talk a bit of history – how plans to build an airport just offshore never came to pass, the origins of Point Isabel as a dog park; and who was Isabel, anyway? But mostly we will enjoy the views. The pace will be moderate and the terrain flat.
Meet at the end of Rydin Road, at the entrance to Point Isabel Regional Shoreline. Dogs welcome but must be leashed as we pass marsh habitat.
Let’s leave town for a historical and scenic San Francisco Pier to Pier Hike. Years ago, finger piers reaching far into the sea formed the shorelines of many American cities. Most cities have lost their piers – but not San Francisco. Several have been restored and opened to the public – and more will see similar changes in the future. Visit these piers and learn their history and future history with Dave Weinstein as we walk from the Ferry Building to at least Pier 39’s sea lions. Meet on the bayside of the Ferry Building in front of Slanted Door restaurant, at the northern end of the building. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. August 26, Monday, with the option of staying a bit later for refreshments. Dress in layers.
A Three Parks Stroll.Saturday, July 27, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Meet at Poinsett Park, corner of Poinsett and Harris Ave. Enjoy a pleasant, at-times steep, 90-minute to two-hour stroll through two of our city’s favorite parks and one in Richmond. Also see fine homes, several creeks, rock outcrops, public art and other wonders. Led by Dave Weinstein.
Meet: Bottom of Poinsett Park, corner of Poinsett and Harris avenues
Easy Shoreline Walk. Friday, Aug. 2, 2019,10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Let’s enjoy a convivial walk along the Richmond Shoreline from Point Isabel in the direction of Marina Bay. Leader Dave Weinstein will talk a bit of history – how plans to build an airport just offshore never came to pass, the origins of Point Isabel as a dog park; and who was Isabel, anyway? But mostly we will enjoy the views. The pace will be moderate and the terrain flat.
Meet at the end of Rydin Road, at the entrance to Point Isabel Regional Shoreline. Dogs welcome but must be leashed as we pass marsh habitat.
Neil Tsutsui attacks a patch of broom
Remove Invasive Species Saturday, July 20, 2019 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Join Friends of Five Creeks and Trail Trekkers in El Cerrito’s Hillside Natural Area to remove invasive, fire-prone French broom, to reduce fire danger and promote biodiversity.
From the south end of Regency Court (across from 1520 Regency), we will walk to the central meadows, talking about history and nature. Work is not heavy unless you want it to be, but part of the fire-road walk is steep. Poison oak is a possibility; kids should be middle-school or older, and should wear long pants, long sleeves, socks, and closed-toed shoes with good traction. Bring sun protection and a re-usable water bottle. We supply gloves, snacks, tools, and good company. For information, email [email protected]. Groups of more than 5 please RSVP.
Trees and Climate: a walking tour of the El Cerrito Hillside Natural Area Saturday, June 22, 2019, 9 am – 11 am
A climb from the Schmidt Lane entrance to one of the fire road viewpoints. We’ll discuss how climate and climate change influence native trees, adaptations and responses of different species to fire, and the mix of native and non-native species in the Hillside Natural Area. Led by David Ackerly, Dean of the College of Natural Resources at UC Berkeley. Meet at the Schmidt Lane entrance to the Hillside Natural Area.
A climb from the Schmidt Lane entrance to one of the fire road viewpoints. We’ll discuss how climate and climate change influence native trees, adaptations and responses of different species to fire, and the mix of native and non-native species in the Hillside Natural Area. Led by David Ackerly, Dean of the College of Natural Resources at UC Berkeley. Meet at the Schmidt Lane entrance to the Hillside Natural Area.
Berkeley Rock Hike Sunday, June 9, 2019, 9:30 – 12:30
Learn about and visit some of the magnificent Berkeley Rocks that dot the landscape with Janet Byron and John Christensen. Walk on Berkeley’s pedestrian paths and stairways on June 9th, 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, to visit seven small parks centered on large volcanic outcroppings. Along the way, we’ll view quintessential Berkeley neighborhoods with fine gardens and architecture (including homes designed by Julia Morgan).
This is a moderately strenuous walk of 5 miles with about 1,100 feet elevation gain. Our climb will reward us with great views of the Bay and beyond. John Christensen, geologist with the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, will walk with us to share the East Bay’s geological history. Heavy rain cancels.
Meet at the northeast corner of Solano Avenue and The Alameda in Berkeley, near the start of the Indian Rock Path (and near the tunnel at the end of upper Solano Avenue).
Peeks at Creeks Saturday, May 18, 2019, 10 AM to 12 noon
Learn about and visit some of the magnificent Berkeley Rocks that dot the landscape with Janet Byron and John Christensen. Walk on Berkeley’s pedestrian paths and stairways on June 9th, 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, to visit seven small parks centered on large volcanic outcroppings. Along the way, we’ll view quintessential Berkeley neighborhoods with fine gardens and architecture (including homes designed by Julia Morgan).
This is a moderately strenuous walk of 5 miles with about 1,100 feet elevation gain. Our climb will reward us with great views of the Bay and beyond. John Christensen, geologist with the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, will walk with us to share the East Bay’s geological history. Heavy rain cancels.
Meet at the northeast corner of Solano Avenue and The Alameda in Berkeley, near the start of the Indian Rock Path (and near the tunnel at the end of upper Solano Avenue).
Peeks at Creeks Saturday, May 18, 2019, 10 AM to 12 noon
Many creeks in El Cerrito are covered, but in its residential neighborhoods you can find glimpses of exposed portions. This walk will take us to a selection of these special places along three creeks. Walk leaders Barbara Lass and Wade Huntley will share how they have used local maps to follow buried creek beds and hunt for the signs of the creeks themselves. Meet on Eureka Ave. between Albemarle St. and Clayton Ave.
6th Annual Hillside Festival Friday-Sunday, May 3-5, 2019
6th Annual Hillside Festival Friday-Sunday, May 3-5, 2019
The sixth annual Hillside Festival will feature a wide variety of activities, with events throughout the 100-acre Hillside Natural Area: nature hikes for young people; a geological hike and shorter geological stroll; the Dog Scouts; a young persons’ hike led by Boy Scouts; walks to learn about native plants, birds, insects and wildflowers; a walk with a city firefighter focusing on preventing wild land fires; a hidden poetry-geocaching walk; a history hike; meditation in nature, and more.
Hikes range from strenuous to easy. See the full schedule here.
Sponsored by El Cerrito Trail Trekkers and El Cerrito’s Environmental Quality Committee. Free.
The festival is free but maintaining and restoring the Hillside is not. Please make a tax deductible donation to this effort with a check to “ECCF,” with “Hillside Restoration” in the message line. ECCF is El Cerrito Community Foundation, our fiscal agent. Send to Pam Austin, 834 Kearney St., EC 94530.
Info: Dave Weinstein, 510-529-5432, [email protected]
Hikes range from strenuous to easy. See the full schedule here.
Sponsored by El Cerrito Trail Trekkers and El Cerrito’s Environmental Quality Committee. Free.
The festival is free but maintaining and restoring the Hillside is not. Please make a tax deductible donation to this effort with a check to “ECCF,” with “Hillside Restoration” in the message line. ECCF is El Cerrito Community Foundation, our fiscal agent. Send to Pam Austin, 834 Kearney St., EC 94530.
Info: Dave Weinstein, 510-529-5432, [email protected]
|
Motorcycle Hill Work Party and Historical Discussion. Learn about the days when hundreds of motorcycles zoomed up Motorcycle Hill – while helping El Cerrito Trail Trekkers remove invasive french broom and complete the Motorcycle Hill Trail. Motorcycle Hill was the site of a motorcycle hill climb dating back to the 1920s, attracting thousands of viewers. Today it is a beautiful part of the City’s Hillside Natural Area. Meet at the foot of Motorcycle Hill, corner of Blake Street and Ganges Avenue. 3 hours. An El Cerrito Centennial event.
|
|
|
Local forest ecologist Ralph Boniello will lead us on a walk through some of the streets and paths of Kensington with a focus on our local trees. We’ll discuss some of the benefits that trees provide, while also noting the risks and hazards associated with trees in areas known to be at high risk from fires. We’ll identify some of the more problematic trees along the way, and discuss actions that can be taken to make our communities more fire safe. Members of the Kensington Pathkeepers will show you a few of the paths that could become escape routes in case of fire or earthquake and that enhance walks around Kensington. The walk will include a stop at the Coventry Grove amphitheater. Meet at the bus stop at Arlington Ave and Coventry Road.
|
|
Talk: El Cerrito Urban Forest: Past, Present, and Future Sunday, March 31, 2019. 2 p.m. Free.
Attend a talk by the El Cerrito Historical Society, El Cerrito Urban Forest: Past, Present, and Future. Ralph Boniello is keeping busy this spring. In addition to a Trekker hike, he will deliver a talk about El Cerrito’s urban forest and how the ever-changing values of El Cerrito’s residents influence its structure and composition. We’ll explore what is known of the pre-European forests that existed here, how they have changed with urbanization, what they look like and how they are managed today, and what the future holds for them in light of a changing climate.
Light refreshments. Arlington Clubhouse, 1120 Arlington Blvd.
Ralph Boniello earned a Ph.D. in Forest Science at UC Berkeley and works on conservation and stewardship with Friends of Five Creeks, the Alameda Creek Alliance, and the California Invasive Plant Council.
Attend a talk by the El Cerrito Historical Society, El Cerrito Urban Forest: Past, Present, and Future. Ralph Boniello is keeping busy this spring. In addition to a Trekker hike, he will deliver a talk about El Cerrito’s urban forest and how the ever-changing values of El Cerrito’s residents influence its structure and composition. We’ll explore what is known of the pre-European forests that existed here, how they have changed with urbanization, what they look like and how they are managed today, and what the future holds for them in light of a changing climate.
Light refreshments. Arlington Clubhouse, 1120 Arlington Blvd.
Ralph Boniello earned a Ph.D. in Forest Science at UC Berkeley and works on conservation and stewardship with Friends of Five Creeks, the Alameda Creek Alliance, and the California Invasive Plant Council.
Madera Broom Pull so successful we are doing it again Saturday, March 23, 2019, 10 a.m. to noon
In mid-February volunteers from both the city’s Green Teams and Trekkers gathered at Madera Open Space to remove invasive broom. It’s a fast spreading invader (with pretty yellow flowers native plant enthusiasts grow to hate). Besides crowding out native plant, broom also makes trails impassable. Unless we complete this broom pull along the trail in Madera Open Space, next year we may not be able to use it. This is a great time to pull broom because the ground is moist and roots come right up. Join us for the fun ! Saturday, March 23, 10 a.m. to noon. Meet at the end of the cul-de-sac trailhead next to 1591 Regency Court above the Hillside Natural Area
In mid-February volunteers from both the city’s Green Teams and Trekkers gathered at Madera Open Space to remove invasive broom. It’s a fast spreading invader (with pretty yellow flowers native plant enthusiasts grow to hate). Besides crowding out native plant, broom also makes trails impassable. Unless we complete this broom pull along the trail in Madera Open Space, next year we may not be able to use it. This is a great time to pull broom because the ground is moist and roots come right up. Join us for the fun ! Saturday, March 23, 10 a.m. to noon. Meet at the end of the cul-de-sac trailhead next to 1591 Regency Court above the Hillside Natural Area
A dog-friendly hike, a Wildcat Canyon Ramble, led by Dave Weinstein and lasting about three hours. Dave will talk just a little about the history of the canyon, how plans were fought off to build a small city there! But mostly we will ramble on steep trails and through high pastures. Sunday, December 9, 11 am to 2 pm. Meet at the Rifle Range trailhead to Wildcat Canyon Park at the end of Rifle Range Road, Richmond.
Holiday Lights Hike with Alina Constantinescu. Saturday December 15 4.pm. Join Alina to explore the Hillside Natural Area and enjoy the annual holiday display by the late and legendary Sundar Shadi, a tradition that continues thanks to the volunteers of the Shadi Holiday Display committee. The route includes some steep trail sections. Bring flashlights and wear good hiking boots. Trails may be muddy. Rain cancels. Meet at the Schmidt Lane entrance to the Hillside Natural Area. 2 hours.
Work off some of that turkey and yams on a Native Plants Hike, November 23, Black Friday, 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Kennedy Grove in El Sobrante. Janet Gawthorp, will lead this beginner-level field trip through the Sea Foam and Black Oak loop trails at Kennedy Grove. This botanically rich area provides opportunities to identify native plants. It includes a stream running through this regional park with deciduous plants along the water, there are plants in seed, and just maybe some very late autumn flowers. The hike will be in two loops for 2.5 miles.
Directions: From I-80, exit at San Pablo Dam Road and turn onto Castro Ranch Road in El Sobrante. From Orinda, take San Pablo Dam Road to El Sobrante, and turn onto Castro Ranch Road. Go two blocks on Castro Ranch Road, and then turn right onto Hillside Drive. Go about 1⁄2 mile to the end of Hillside Drive, and then turn left on Patra Drive and park near the trailhead. Street parking is abundant and free–Do not turn into the Kennedy Grove park entrance on San Pablo Dam Road. Bicycle folks can take AC Transit #74 from Richmond BART, get off at Castro Ranch & Sherwood Forest Road and ride up Hillside to Patra Drive. It’s a nice bike ride but a little far to walk. The rain date will be Saturday November 24 starting at the same time.
Learn about and visit some of the magnificent Berkeley Rocks that dot the landscape with Janet Byron and John Christensen. Walk on Berkeley’s pedestrian paths and stairways on November 10th, 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, to visit seven small parks centered on large volcanic outcroppings. Along the way, we’ll view quintessential Berkeley neighborhoods with fine gardens and architecture (including homes designed by Julia Morgan). This is a moderately strenuous walk of 5 miles with about 1,100 feet elevation gain. Our climb will reward us with great views of the Bay and beyond. John Christensen, geologist with the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, will walk with us to share the East Bay’s geological history. This walk is featured in Berkeley Walks, co-authored by hike leader Bob Johnson and Janet Byron. Heavy rain cancels.
We’ll assemble at the northeast corner of Solano Avenue and The Alameda in Berkeley, near the start of the Indian Rock Path (and near the tunnel at the end of upper Solano Avenue). Street parking is available, but check signs. This area is served by AC transit lines 7, 18, and 79 from downtown Berkeley and other locations.
Bring water and snacks. Dress in layers, and wear good walking shoes. Bring poles if you normally use them. Most of our walking is on city sidewalks with an option to ascend some rock outcrops for views.
Albany Hill Hike: Wednesday, September 12, 2018, 6:00 PM
Holiday Lights Hike with Alina Constantinescu. Saturday December 15 4.pm. Join Alina to explore the Hillside Natural Area and enjoy the annual holiday display by the late and legendary Sundar Shadi, a tradition that continues thanks to the volunteers of the Shadi Holiday Display committee. The route includes some steep trail sections. Bring flashlights and wear good hiking boots. Trails may be muddy. Rain cancels. Meet at the Schmidt Lane entrance to the Hillside Natural Area. 2 hours.
Work off some of that turkey and yams on a Native Plants Hike, November 23, Black Friday, 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Kennedy Grove in El Sobrante. Janet Gawthorp, will lead this beginner-level field trip through the Sea Foam and Black Oak loop trails at Kennedy Grove. This botanically rich area provides opportunities to identify native plants. It includes a stream running through this regional park with deciduous plants along the water, there are plants in seed, and just maybe some very late autumn flowers. The hike will be in two loops for 2.5 miles.
Directions: From I-80, exit at San Pablo Dam Road and turn onto Castro Ranch Road in El Sobrante. From Orinda, take San Pablo Dam Road to El Sobrante, and turn onto Castro Ranch Road. Go two blocks on Castro Ranch Road, and then turn right onto Hillside Drive. Go about 1⁄2 mile to the end of Hillside Drive, and then turn left on Patra Drive and park near the trailhead. Street parking is abundant and free–Do not turn into the Kennedy Grove park entrance on San Pablo Dam Road. Bicycle folks can take AC Transit #74 from Richmond BART, get off at Castro Ranch & Sherwood Forest Road and ride up Hillside to Patra Drive. It’s a nice bike ride but a little far to walk. The rain date will be Saturday November 24 starting at the same time.
Learn about and visit some of the magnificent Berkeley Rocks that dot the landscape with Janet Byron and John Christensen. Walk on Berkeley’s pedestrian paths and stairways on November 10th, 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, to visit seven small parks centered on large volcanic outcroppings. Along the way, we’ll view quintessential Berkeley neighborhoods with fine gardens and architecture (including homes designed by Julia Morgan). This is a moderately strenuous walk of 5 miles with about 1,100 feet elevation gain. Our climb will reward us with great views of the Bay and beyond. John Christensen, geologist with the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, will walk with us to share the East Bay’s geological history. This walk is featured in Berkeley Walks, co-authored by hike leader Bob Johnson and Janet Byron. Heavy rain cancels.
We’ll assemble at the northeast corner of Solano Avenue and The Alameda in Berkeley, near the start of the Indian Rock Path (and near the tunnel at the end of upper Solano Avenue). Street parking is available, but check signs. This area is served by AC transit lines 7, 18, and 79 from downtown Berkeley and other locations.
Bring water and snacks. Dress in layers, and wear good walking shoes. Bring poles if you normally use them. Most of our walking is on city sidewalks with an option to ascend some rock outcrops for views.
Albany Hill Hike: Wednesday, September 12, 2018, 6:00 PM
|
Join Alina Constantinescu for an after-work evening of trails, food, and fun. We’ll start off with a nice hike up Albany Hill, then gather for an outdoor dinner at El Cerrito Off the Grid where 8-10 food trucks rotate through every Wednesday night. The hike is about an hour and a half followed by an hour at Off the Grid. This is an urban hike, part trails, part sidewalks. Some trails are steep and narrow and have poison oak. Wear long pants and long sleeves and bring a jacket for our al fresco dinner. Meet at Peet’s 9895 San Pablo Ave (corner with Carlson).
|
|
Sunset Ramble in the Hillside Area and Motorcycle Hill: Fri, August 17, 6:30 PM
Alina Constantinescu leads hike through Hillside Nature Area.
Architectural Walking Tour: The Hills, Saturday, August 4, 2018, 11:00-1:00 pm
Architectural Walking Tour: The Hills, Saturday, August 4, 2018, 11:00-1:00 pm
Let’s walk by and learn about some of the most architecturally important and beautiful homes in El Cerrito, including a Storybook home by Bay Tradition pioneer John Hudson Thomas, International Style beauties by Campbell & Wong and by Donald Olsen, some marvelous mid-century moderns, and two homes by one of the inventors of the Modern Movement, Richard Neutra. David Weinstein, author of Signature Architects of the SF Bay Area, leads. This will be similar to a tour he led last fall – but with some changes. Presented by the El Cerrito Historical Society and the El Cerrito Trail Trekkers. Meet at Arlington Clubhouse, 1120 Arlington Blvd.
The planned August 5, Sunday, trail building party at Betty Lane has been cancelled. Trail Trekkers apologizes for the inconvenience.
Sunset Ramble Through the Hillside, Friday July 20, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm
Leader: Alina Constantinescu. Start your weekend off right with a fun hike through the Hillside Natural Area. Hike is about 3 miles and 2 hours. We will go at a moderate pace and take breaks as needed to enjoy the views and the conversation. Meet at the Memorial Grove entrance on Schmidt Lane.
Sunset Hike: Parks and Staircases, Sunday June 24, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm
Leader: Alina Constantinescu. This evening hike will explore beautiful parks: the Hillside Area, Arlington Park, and Motorcycle Hill. It is an urban hike: part dirt trails, part staircases and sidewalks through nice neighborhoods with panoramic views of the bay. The route is about 3.5 mi, hike is about 2 hours. We will go at a moderate pace and take breaks as needed to enjoy the views and the conversation. Meet at the Memorial Grove entrance on Schmidt Lane.
Albany Hill Hike and Dinner at Off the Grid, Wed. July 11, 6:30 pm-8:00 pm
Leader: Alina Constantinescu. Join us for an after-work evening of trails, food and fun. We’ll start off with a nice hike up Albany Hill, then gather for an outdoor dinner at El Cerrito Off the Grid where 10-12 food trucks rotate through every Wednesday night. The hike is about an hour and a half followed by an hour at Off the Grid. This is an urban hike, part trails, part sidewalks. Some trails are steep and narrow and have poison oak. Wear long pants and long sleeves and bring a jacket for our al fresco dinner. Meet at Peets, 9895 San Pablo and Carlson.
Lost Trails & Fine Homes Hike 1 pm. to 3 pm Saturday, June 16Join Dave Weinstein for the Lost Trails & Fine Homes Hike. This is a vigorous and, at times, steep stroll to see some of El Cerrito’s most unusual, largest and most beautiful homes in a wide variety of styles, while we enjoy some of the city’s hidden pathways and see pathways that are impassable — for now.
Meet at the Northwest corner of Moeser Lane and Shevlin Drive. Best to park on Shevlin. A good thing to do with Dad the day before Fathers Day.
2018 Hillside Festival
May 4th, 5th and 6th
Member Appreciation Party
Sunday, February 25, 5 pm to 7 pm
Just to show how much we appreciate people who join El Cerrito Trail Trekkers, we will hold our second annual members appreciation party from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. (and later if we are having fun!) Sunday, February 25 at a private home right here in El Cerrito.
Please rsvp to Dave Weinstein, [email protected].
The party will feature homemade, healthy and delicious pizzas by Mary Barkey, wine, beer, sparkling water and dessert.
It’s a great chance to meet like-minded people who love nature, the out of doors, and parties. Not a member? Join by visiting the website, or join at the door. Family membership is only $20 and lifetime membership a bargain at $1,000.
Thanks are due to the Trekkers’ social supervisor, Mollie Hazen.
Saturday, January 20, 2018
Our Annual Public Meeting. Board election, reports on our activities and a speaker from the Bay Area Puma Project, “Living with Lions.” 3 PM. The Garden Room at the El Cerrito Community Center, 7007 Moeser Lane, El Cerrito. 2 Hours.
Sunday, January 7 at 4 PM
Albany Hill Hike with Tom Gehling. A scenic one hour hike up and around historic Albany Hill, the little hill that gave El Cerrito its name. The trail is steep in spots but the views are expansive. Off-leash dogs are fine.
Meet below the Pacific East Mall Jumbotron behind the bus stop on the east side of Pierce St., just south (~1000 ft.) of Central Ave.
Sunday, December 17 at 4 PM
Holiday Lights Hike with Alina Constantinescu. Join leader Alina to explore both the Hillside Natural Area and some beautiful holiday light displays in nearby neighborhoods. Enjoy the annual holiday display by the late and legendary Sundar Shadi, a tradition that continues thanks to the volunteers of the Shadi Holiday Display committee. This strenuous hike includes some steep trails. Bring flashlights and wear good hiking boots. Trails may be muddy. Meet at the Schmidt Lane entrance to the Hillside Natural Area. 2 hours.
Saturday, December 9 at 3 PM
Sunset Ramble in the Hills with Alina Constantinescu. Join Alina for an evening ramble through the trails of the Hillside Natural Area, and nearby city paths to enjoy the waning light of the late afternoon and what we hope will be a beautiful sunset This strenuous hike includes some steep trails. Bring flashlights and wear good hiking boots. Trails may be muddy. Meet at the Schmidt Lane entrance to the Hillside Natural Area. 2 hours.
The planned August 5, Sunday, trail building party at Betty Lane has been cancelled. Trail Trekkers apologizes for the inconvenience.
Sunset Ramble Through the Hillside, Friday July 20, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm
Leader: Alina Constantinescu. Start your weekend off right with a fun hike through the Hillside Natural Area. Hike is about 3 miles and 2 hours. We will go at a moderate pace and take breaks as needed to enjoy the views and the conversation. Meet at the Memorial Grove entrance on Schmidt Lane.
Sunset Hike: Parks and Staircases, Sunday June 24, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm
Leader: Alina Constantinescu. This evening hike will explore beautiful parks: the Hillside Area, Arlington Park, and Motorcycle Hill. It is an urban hike: part dirt trails, part staircases and sidewalks through nice neighborhoods with panoramic views of the bay. The route is about 3.5 mi, hike is about 2 hours. We will go at a moderate pace and take breaks as needed to enjoy the views and the conversation. Meet at the Memorial Grove entrance on Schmidt Lane.
Albany Hill Hike and Dinner at Off the Grid, Wed. July 11, 6:30 pm-8:00 pm
Leader: Alina Constantinescu. Join us for an after-work evening of trails, food and fun. We’ll start off with a nice hike up Albany Hill, then gather for an outdoor dinner at El Cerrito Off the Grid where 10-12 food trucks rotate through every Wednesday night. The hike is about an hour and a half followed by an hour at Off the Grid. This is an urban hike, part trails, part sidewalks. Some trails are steep and narrow and have poison oak. Wear long pants and long sleeves and bring a jacket for our al fresco dinner. Meet at Peets, 9895 San Pablo and Carlson.
Lost Trails & Fine Homes Hike 1 pm. to 3 pm Saturday, June 16Join Dave Weinstein for the Lost Trails & Fine Homes Hike. This is a vigorous and, at times, steep stroll to see some of El Cerrito’s most unusual, largest and most beautiful homes in a wide variety of styles, while we enjoy some of the city’s hidden pathways and see pathways that are impassable — for now.
Meet at the Northwest corner of Moeser Lane and Shevlin Drive. Best to park on Shevlin. A good thing to do with Dad the day before Fathers Day.
2018 Hillside Festival
May 4th, 5th and 6th
Member Appreciation Party
Sunday, February 25, 5 pm to 7 pm
Just to show how much we appreciate people who join El Cerrito Trail Trekkers, we will hold our second annual members appreciation party from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. (and later if we are having fun!) Sunday, February 25 at a private home right here in El Cerrito.
Please rsvp to Dave Weinstein, [email protected].
The party will feature homemade, healthy and delicious pizzas by Mary Barkey, wine, beer, sparkling water and dessert.
It’s a great chance to meet like-minded people who love nature, the out of doors, and parties. Not a member? Join by visiting the website, or join at the door. Family membership is only $20 and lifetime membership a bargain at $1,000.
Thanks are due to the Trekkers’ social supervisor, Mollie Hazen.
Saturday, January 20, 2018
Our Annual Public Meeting. Board election, reports on our activities and a speaker from the Bay Area Puma Project, “Living with Lions.” 3 PM. The Garden Room at the El Cerrito Community Center, 7007 Moeser Lane, El Cerrito. 2 Hours.
Sunday, January 7 at 4 PM
Albany Hill Hike with Tom Gehling. A scenic one hour hike up and around historic Albany Hill, the little hill that gave El Cerrito its name. The trail is steep in spots but the views are expansive. Off-leash dogs are fine.
Meet below the Pacific East Mall Jumbotron behind the bus stop on the east side of Pierce St., just south (~1000 ft.) of Central Ave.
Sunday, December 17 at 4 PM
Holiday Lights Hike with Alina Constantinescu. Join leader Alina to explore both the Hillside Natural Area and some beautiful holiday light displays in nearby neighborhoods. Enjoy the annual holiday display by the late and legendary Sundar Shadi, a tradition that continues thanks to the volunteers of the Shadi Holiday Display committee. This strenuous hike includes some steep trails. Bring flashlights and wear good hiking boots. Trails may be muddy. Meet at the Schmidt Lane entrance to the Hillside Natural Area. 2 hours.
Saturday, December 9 at 3 PM
Sunset Ramble in the Hills with Alina Constantinescu. Join Alina for an evening ramble through the trails of the Hillside Natural Area, and nearby city paths to enjoy the waning light of the late afternoon and what we hope will be a beautiful sunset This strenuous hike includes some steep trails. Bring flashlights and wear good hiking boots. Trails may be muddy. Meet at the Schmidt Lane entrance to the Hillside Natural Area. 2 hours.
Madera Broom Pull in the El Cerrito Natural Area
Saturday, February 16 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Saturday, February 16 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Meet at 10 a.m. at the end of the cul-de-sac trailhead next to 1591 Regency Court above the Hillside Natural Area.
Join El Cerrito’s Green Teams and Trail Trekkers for a volunteer stewardship effort to remove invasive French broom in the Madera connection of the Hillside Natural Area. All ages welcome (under 18 with guardian). Tools, gloves, snacks, and good company supplied. For more information, contact City staff at (510) 215-4350 or [email protected].
Join El Cerrito’s Green Teams and Trail Trekkers for a volunteer stewardship effort to remove invasive French broom in the Madera connection of the Hillside Natural Area. All ages welcome (under 18 with guardian). Tools, gloves, snacks, and good company supplied. For more information, contact City staff at (510) 215-4350 or [email protected].
Trail Trekkers led more events for El Cerrito’s Centennial Celebration than any other group. The full city schedule of events can be found here.
2017 Annual Meeting Sunday, January 15, 2017,
El Cerrito Community Center
Coyotes!
El Cerrito Community Center
Coyotes!
We reviewed our accomplishments, plan for the new year, and elect officers. And after we’ve gotten that out of the way join us to hear about some of our more elusive neighbors, coyotes!
Since El Cerrito borders the East Bay Regional Park District and contains good habitat for wildlife, occasional interactions between coyotes and humans are likely. An understanding of how to co-exist with this beautiful and beneficial species is important.
Keli Hendricks of Marin-based Project Coyote gave an informative presentation and Q & A session about these remarkable animals.
Project Coyote is a national non-profit organization and part of the Earth Island Institute. As a coalition of scientists, educators, ranchers, and citizen leaders, it promotes compassionate conservation and coexistence between people and wildlife through education, science, and advocacy.
Monthly Business Meeting. The Trail Trekkers hold our board meetings on the 2nd Saturday of each month at 10 AM in the Harding Park Clubhouse on C Street. Trail Trekker members are always invited to attend.
Sunday, September 7 at 4 PM
Albany Hill with Maryann Pomegranate. While Roberta Maguire takes her summer vacation we are filling in with guest leaders. This is Roberta’s scenic and historic hike up and around Albany Hill, El Cerrito’s namesake. Steep trail in spots with expansive views. Off-leash dogs OK.
Meet under the Jumbotron at the Pacific East Mall, Pierce Street, Richmond.
Sunday, August 17 at 11 AM
Lost Trails and Fine Homes Hike with Dave Weinstein. See some of the most famous architect-designed homes in El Cerrito, traverse the Hillside Natural Area, Arlington Park, and more and see lost trails that need to be restored. Meet at northwest corner of Moeser Lane and Shevlin Drive. About two and a half hours, steep slopes and stairs
Sunday, August 3 at 4 PM
Albany Hill with Maryann Pomegranate. While Roberta Maguire takes her summer vacation we are filling in with guest leaders. This is Roberta’s scenic and historic hike up and around Albany Hill, El Cerrito’s namesake. Steep trail in spots with expansive views. Off-leash dogs OK.
Meet under the Jumbotron at the Pacific East Mall, Pierce Street, Richmond.
Sunday, July 20 at 10 AM
The Breadth of It with Jenny Hammer. We will traverse the length of the Hillside Natural Area (including Madera Open Space), from the south to Snowdon Ave. in the north. See prairie, woodland, riparian habitats. Take in the spectacular views. Bring your lunch for a picnic in the heart of our city, “away from it all.”
Meet at Portola and Navellier, across fro the old Middle School, at 10 AM.
Saturday, July 19 at 11 AM.
Storybook Cottages with Dave Weinstein. Tour the northern border of El Cerrito while seeing some of the most charming houses in town, Poinsett and Tassajara parks, hidden creeks and more.
Meet at Poinsett Park, corner of Poinsett and Harris avenues.
Saturday, July 12 at 7 PM
Moonrise over Del Norte with Tom Gehling. Come along and see Baxter Creek / Gateway Park, Canyon Trail Park, Lower Snowdon Trail and other paths and stairways as the sun sets and the full moon rises. Surfaces range from paved paths and sidewalks to a narrow dirt trail. There will also be a steep stairway which we will go down. We should be back before it gets too dark but bring a light if you wish.
Meet at Del Norte BART, at the intersection of Cutting and the Ohlone Greenway at 7 PM.
Sunday, July 6 at 4 PM
Albany Hill with Maryann Pomegranate. While Roberta Maguire takes her summer vacation we are filling in with guest leaders. This is Roberta’s scenic and historic hike up and around Albany Hill, El Cerrito’s namesake. Steep trail in spots with expansive views. Off-leash dogs OK.
Meet under the Jumbotron at the Pacific East Mall, Pierce Street, Richmond.
Saturday, May 31 1 PM to 5 PM
Baxter Creek to Bay Bridge and Back by Bike. Join Jenny Hammer and Tom Gehling for a bike ride along the Ohlone way in El Cerrito, Albany, Berkeley and beyond. Meet at tyhe Baxter Creek / Gateway Park at the north end of the Ohlone Greenway at San Pablo Ave. May 31 is is the El Cerrito Ohlone Greenway Fun Day.
Sunday, June 1 4 to 5:30 PM
Albany Hill Hike with Tom Gehling. While Roberta Maguire takes a well deserved break for the summer the Trekkers will carry on for her. Join Tom Gehling for a short, but steep ramble up and around Albany Hill. We’ll see some of the natural and cultural history of the icon geographic feature as well as the adjacent Cerrito Creek. Bring water and be prepared for poison oak along some sections of the trail. Meet at the Jumbotron in the Pacific East Mall on Pierce St.
Saturday, May 17 1o AM to 3 PM
The 1st Annual Hillside Festival
Trail Trekker events include
Hike Motorcycle Hill Trail to Madera Open Space
12:00-1:00 pm
Meet at the corner of Blake Street and Navellier
Join Jenny Hammer of El Cerrito Trail Trekkers for a one-hour hike up Motorcycle Hill Trail and into the Madera Open Space.
Learn some history of Motorcycle Hill, view old photos of Motorcycle hill climb races of the 1920’s. Enjoy spectacular views. Take in the aroma of California sage, and ponder why Tepco pottery shards are scattered about the area. See and understand how the Hillside Natural Area North will connect to its southern sister with the addition of the Madera Open Space. Explore a gurgling creek, pass a strangled tree, and generally get a sense of the hillside gem in the midst of our city. This hike is moderately strenuous in parts because of steepness, but most is a gentle incline. We will not be power-walking! Bring water. Sturdy boots are recommended and, if you use poles, bring them.
Open Space Hike – Live Oak Trail to Madera
2:30-3:30 pm
Meet at the Schmidt Lane Trailhead near the El Cerrito Recycling Center.
Join Dave Weinstein President of El Cerrito Trail Trekkers for an hour-long hike through his favorite trails beneath grotesquely formed yet beautiful live oaks and across grassy meadows with superb views.
But there are many other wonderful events.
Sunday, May 11 at 10 AM
Overview of the Madera Open Space with Mark Miner. See Motorcycle Hill, the Julian Steps and the new Madera Open Space. 90 minutes.
Meet at the corner of Blake and Navellier (the lower entrance to Motorcycle Hill).
Sunday, May 4 at 4 PM
Albany Hill Hike. Join Roberta Maguire for a 1 hr. scenic historic hike up & around Albany Hill, El Cerrito’s namesake. The trail is steep in spots, with expansive views, lush vegetation and a rope swing. Off-leash dogs are fine
Meet at the Pacific East Mall Jumbotron just behind the bus stop on the east side of Pierce St., south of Central Ave.
Leader Roberta Maguire – 510 292 6370 – [email protected]
Saturday, April 26 9 AM
Help us commemorate Earth Day by pulling broom on Motorcycle Hill with the Trekkers and Friends of Five Creeks. The invasive and fire-prone French Broom is a bane to all those who spend time in the hills. Removing it is a great way to spend Earth Day and afterwards volunteers can come to a free lunch at the Community Center, 7007 Moeser Lane, El Cerrito. At the lunch, volunteers can meet with other volunteers, pick up information about sustainable living, enjoy a delicious lunch, make something crafty and enjoy some 1950s rock and roll music by Hot Rod Jukebox. The broom pull starts a 9 AM at the upper trail head of Motorcycle Hill between 7701 and 7705 Potrero. If you come late, follow the road until you find us.
Sunday, April 27 10 AM
Wildcat Marsh and Landfill Loop Trail, Richmond with Jenny Hammer. See birds, reclaimed landfill, bay views, and Wildcat and San Pablo Creeks.
Meet in parking lot, 1 Parr Blvd., off Richmond Pkwy. For carpooling, meet at El Cerrito Plaza BART parking lot, SW corner at 9:30 a.m.
Saturday, April 19 at 10 AM
Join the El Cerrito Trail Trekkers on Saturday, April 19, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. as we hop on our bicycles and explore the now-open Ohlone Greenway, traverse a little-known highway overpass, and feel the breezes along the Bay Trail. We will see frog habitat, the Dinosaur Forest, the location in the Bay where the twin creeks converge, and a beautiful Richmond park where local elementary school students have adopted Baxter Creek.
Bicycle helmets are required for this freewheeling, two-wheeling tour. Bring water. A windbreaker is recommended (for those Bay Trail breezes). Heavy rain will cancel.
Meet under the BART tracks on the south side of Hill Street, Del Norte BART station.
Please RSVP: [email protected] or [email protected].
Dust off your bike, top off the air in your tires, and come ride with us!
Saturday, April 19 at 10 AM
Tour of the Madera Open Space. Join Sarah and Robert for a short walk on the Madera open space.Come away with a first-hand impression of the benefits of this additional park space joining the north and south regions of Hillside Natural Area. We look forward to seeing you there! Plan to be there for about an hour and wear good shoes for “off-trail” hiking. You may also want to bring a small water bottle.
Leaders: Sarah [email protected] & Robert
Meet: Madera School parking lot, 8500 Madera Drive, El Cerrito, CA 94530
Sunday. April 6 at 10 AM
Overview of the Madera Open Space with Mark Miner. See Motorcycle Hill, the Julian Steps and the new Madera Open Space. 90 minutes.
Meet at the corner of Blake and Navellier (the lower entrance to Motorcycle Hill).
Sunday, April 6 at 4 PM
Albany Hill hike with Roberta Maguire. A scenic one hour hike up and around historic Albany Hill, the little hill that gave El Cerrito its name. The trail is steep in spots but the views are expansive. Off-leash dogs are fine.
Meet below the Pacific East Mall Jumbotron behind the bus stop on the east side of Pierce St., just south (~1000 ft.) of Central Ave.
Leader: Roberta Maguire [email protected]
Saturday, March 29 at 8:15 PM
Earth Hour on Motorcycle Hill with the El Cerrito Environmental Quality Committee and Friends of Five Creeks. As part of a worldwide effort to focus attention on human-caused climate change, El Cerrito will participate in Earth Hour – and so can you. For one hour, people will turn off lights and unneeded appliances.
Join us during this hour, from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 29, as Friends of Five Creeks, El Cerrito Trail Trekkers, and the El Cerrito Environmental Quality Committee lead a short walk onto Motorcycle Hill.
Bring a flashlight, although part of the fun is to keep it off and let your eyes adapt to dark. A short walk brings you to the end of the road, where there will be stargazing, refreshments, information ranging from global warming to exciting future prospects for the Hillside Natural Area, and more. Bring a camera for night photography, and binoculars or a portable telescope. Measure light pollution — an exciting citizen science opportunity.
Dress in layers, for changing weather. Park carefully on Potrero, with wheels to the curb and brake set. Rain cancels.
Meet at 8:15 at the trailhead between 7701 and 7705 Potrero Avenue.
Thursday, March 20 at 3 PM (Meeting Location Changed!)
Madera Open Space Hike with Jenny Hammer. El Cerrito hopes to acquire the Madera Open Space to fill a gap in its Hillside Natural Area. This is a beautiful 8-acre site with a meadow, forest, and creeks. The El Cerrito Open Space Fund, which includes Trekkers, is raising funds from the community to help pay for this land. Visit the site with us; be inspired!
This 90 minute hike will take in the Madera Open Space as well as Motorcycle Hill and other parts of the Hillside Natural Area.
Meet at 3 PM at Madera Elementary School, 8500 Madera Drive, off of Arlington
Thursday, March 6 at 3 PM
Madera Open Space Hike with Jenny Hammer. El Cerrito hopes to acquire the Madera Open Space to fill a gap in its Hillside Natural Area. This is a beautiful 8-acre site with a meadow, forest, and creeks. The El Cerrito Open Space Fund, which includes Trekkers, is raising funds from the community to help pay for this land. Visit the site with us; be inspired!
This 90 minute hike will take in the Madera Open Space as well as Motorcycle Hill and other parts of the Hillside Natural Area.
Meet at 3 PM at the corner of Blake and Navellier (the lower entrance to Motorcycle Hill)
Sunday, March 2 at 4 PM
Albany Hill hike with Roberta Maguire. A scenic one hour hike up and around historic Albany Hill, the little hill that gave El Cerrito its name. The trail is steep in spots but the views are expansive. Off-leash dogs are fine.
Meet below the Pacific East Mall Jumbotron behind the bus stop on the east side of Pierce St., just south (~1000 ft.) of Central Ave.
Leader: Roberta Maguire [email protected]
Sunday, March 2 at 10:00 AM
Overview of Madera Open Space with Jenny Hammer. El Cerrito hopes to acquire the Madera Open Space to fill a gap in its Hillside Natural Area. This is a beautiful 8-acre site with a meadow, forest, and creeks. The El Cerrito Open Space Fund, which includes Trekkers, is raising funds from the community to help pay for this land. Visit the site with us; be inspired!
This 90 minute hike will take in the Madera Open Space as well as Motorcycle Hill and other parts of the Hillside Natural Area.
Meet at 10 AM at the corner of Blake and Navellier (the lower entrance to Motorcycle Hill)
Saturday, March 1 at 11 AM
High Tide at Point Isabel. A joint walk with Citizens for East Shore Parks (CESP). Join a representative from CESP and Tom Gehling from the Trekkers for a two hour walk of the Point Isabel area between Cerrito Creek and Meeker Slough. Meet at the parking lot on Isabel St. (around the corner from the end of Central, just past Costco). 2 hours.
Sunday, February 23 at 11 AM.
Madera and the Hillside Natural Area with Tom Gehling. El Cerrito hopes to acquire the Madera Open Space to fill a gap in its Hillside Natural Area. This is a beautiful 8-acre site with a meadow, forest, and creeks. The El Cerrito Open Space Fund, which includes Trekkers, is raising funds from the community to help pay for this land. Visit the site with us; be inspired!
This 90 minute hike will take in parts of the southern section of the Hillside Natural Area as well as the Madera Open Space and the Julian Steps. Meet at the entrance to the Hillside Natural Area on Regency Ct., about 100 feet north of the intersection of Regency and Kent. Heavy rain cancels and rain or not, it is likely to be muddy and slippery. Dress accordingly.
Saturday, February 22 at 10 AM
Broom Pull with the Friends of Five Creeks in the Hillside Natural Area. Meet at 10 AM at the first, southern, entrance on Regency Court. To get there, from Contra Costa north of Moeser turn downhill, west, on Kent and take the first (and only) right onto Regency. The chained fire-road entrance is just past the turn. If you come late, walk down the road until you see them
Tools, gloves, and snack provided. No RSVP needed (except from groups). Wear long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toed shoes with good traction. Because of the possibility of poison oak, these are not for young children.
Sunday, February 2 at 9:30
North Berkeley Hills and campus with Jordan Herrmann. An architectural hike on the paths and trails of North Berkeley and the UC Berkeley campus. This hike is also listed with the California Alpine Club.
Meet Jordan at Live Oak Park on Shattuck Ave at the east end of Berryman St.
Sunday, February 2 at 4 PM
Albany Hill hike with Roberta Maguire. A scenic one hour hike up and around historic Albany Hill, the little hill that gave El Cerrito its name. The trail is steep in spots but the views are expansive. Off-leash dogs are fine.
Meet below the Pacific East Mall Jumbotron behind the bus stop on the east side of Pierce St., just south (~1000 ft.) of Central Ave.
Leader: Roberta Maguire [email protected]
Sunday, December 3 at 4 PM
Albany Hill hike with Roberta Maguire. A scenic one hour hike up and around historic Albany Hill, the little hill that gave El Cerrito its name. The trail is steep in spots but the views are expansive. Off-leash dogs are fine.
Meet below the Pacific East Mall Jumbotron behind the bus stop on the east side of Pierce St., just south (~1000 ft.) of Central Ave.
Saturday, December 2 at 10 AM
Broom pull in the Hillside Natural Area with Friends of Five Creeks. Join Friends of Five Creeks and the El Cerrito Trail Trekkers in removing invasive, fire-prone French broom in the beautiful El Cerrito Hillside Natural Area. A walk in is followed by work with magnificent Bay views. Tools, gloves, snacks, & water will be supplied. Wear long pants, long sleeves, socks, and closed-toed shoes with good traction.
Meet at the King Court entrance to the Hillside Natural Area , just below the intersection of King and Shevlin Drives, north of Moeser. 2.5 hours.
Since El Cerrito borders the East Bay Regional Park District and contains good habitat for wildlife, occasional interactions between coyotes and humans are likely. An understanding of how to co-exist with this beautiful and beneficial species is important.
Keli Hendricks of Marin-based Project Coyote gave an informative presentation and Q & A session about these remarkable animals.
Project Coyote is a national non-profit organization and part of the Earth Island Institute. As a coalition of scientists, educators, ranchers, and citizen leaders, it promotes compassionate conservation and coexistence between people and wildlife through education, science, and advocacy.
Monthly Business Meeting. The Trail Trekkers hold our board meetings on the 2nd Saturday of each month at 10 AM in the Harding Park Clubhouse on C Street. Trail Trekker members are always invited to attend.
Sunday, September 7 at 4 PM
Albany Hill with Maryann Pomegranate. While Roberta Maguire takes her summer vacation we are filling in with guest leaders. This is Roberta’s scenic and historic hike up and around Albany Hill, El Cerrito’s namesake. Steep trail in spots with expansive views. Off-leash dogs OK.
Meet under the Jumbotron at the Pacific East Mall, Pierce Street, Richmond.
Sunday, August 17 at 11 AM
Lost Trails and Fine Homes Hike with Dave Weinstein. See some of the most famous architect-designed homes in El Cerrito, traverse the Hillside Natural Area, Arlington Park, and more and see lost trails that need to be restored. Meet at northwest corner of Moeser Lane and Shevlin Drive. About two and a half hours, steep slopes and stairs
Sunday, August 3 at 4 PM
Albany Hill with Maryann Pomegranate. While Roberta Maguire takes her summer vacation we are filling in with guest leaders. This is Roberta’s scenic and historic hike up and around Albany Hill, El Cerrito’s namesake. Steep trail in spots with expansive views. Off-leash dogs OK.
Meet under the Jumbotron at the Pacific East Mall, Pierce Street, Richmond.
Sunday, July 20 at 10 AM
The Breadth of It with Jenny Hammer. We will traverse the length of the Hillside Natural Area (including Madera Open Space), from the south to Snowdon Ave. in the north. See prairie, woodland, riparian habitats. Take in the spectacular views. Bring your lunch for a picnic in the heart of our city, “away from it all.”
Meet at Portola and Navellier, across fro the old Middle School, at 10 AM.
Saturday, July 19 at 11 AM.
Storybook Cottages with Dave Weinstein. Tour the northern border of El Cerrito while seeing some of the most charming houses in town, Poinsett and Tassajara parks, hidden creeks and more.
Meet at Poinsett Park, corner of Poinsett and Harris avenues.
Saturday, July 12 at 7 PM
Moonrise over Del Norte with Tom Gehling. Come along and see Baxter Creek / Gateway Park, Canyon Trail Park, Lower Snowdon Trail and other paths and stairways as the sun sets and the full moon rises. Surfaces range from paved paths and sidewalks to a narrow dirt trail. There will also be a steep stairway which we will go down. We should be back before it gets too dark but bring a light if you wish.
Meet at Del Norte BART, at the intersection of Cutting and the Ohlone Greenway at 7 PM.
Sunday, July 6 at 4 PM
Albany Hill with Maryann Pomegranate. While Roberta Maguire takes her summer vacation we are filling in with guest leaders. This is Roberta’s scenic and historic hike up and around Albany Hill, El Cerrito’s namesake. Steep trail in spots with expansive views. Off-leash dogs OK.
Meet under the Jumbotron at the Pacific East Mall, Pierce Street, Richmond.
Saturday, May 31 1 PM to 5 PM
Baxter Creek to Bay Bridge and Back by Bike. Join Jenny Hammer and Tom Gehling for a bike ride along the Ohlone way in El Cerrito, Albany, Berkeley and beyond. Meet at tyhe Baxter Creek / Gateway Park at the north end of the Ohlone Greenway at San Pablo Ave. May 31 is is the El Cerrito Ohlone Greenway Fun Day.
Sunday, June 1 4 to 5:30 PM
Albany Hill Hike with Tom Gehling. While Roberta Maguire takes a well deserved break for the summer the Trekkers will carry on for her. Join Tom Gehling for a short, but steep ramble up and around Albany Hill. We’ll see some of the natural and cultural history of the icon geographic feature as well as the adjacent Cerrito Creek. Bring water and be prepared for poison oak along some sections of the trail. Meet at the Jumbotron in the Pacific East Mall on Pierce St.
Saturday, May 17 1o AM to 3 PM
The 1st Annual Hillside Festival
Trail Trekker events include
Hike Motorcycle Hill Trail to Madera Open Space
12:00-1:00 pm
Meet at the corner of Blake Street and Navellier
Join Jenny Hammer of El Cerrito Trail Trekkers for a one-hour hike up Motorcycle Hill Trail and into the Madera Open Space.
Learn some history of Motorcycle Hill, view old photos of Motorcycle hill climb races of the 1920’s. Enjoy spectacular views. Take in the aroma of California sage, and ponder why Tepco pottery shards are scattered about the area. See and understand how the Hillside Natural Area North will connect to its southern sister with the addition of the Madera Open Space. Explore a gurgling creek, pass a strangled tree, and generally get a sense of the hillside gem in the midst of our city. This hike is moderately strenuous in parts because of steepness, but most is a gentle incline. We will not be power-walking! Bring water. Sturdy boots are recommended and, if you use poles, bring them.
Open Space Hike – Live Oak Trail to Madera
2:30-3:30 pm
Meet at the Schmidt Lane Trailhead near the El Cerrito Recycling Center.
Join Dave Weinstein President of El Cerrito Trail Trekkers for an hour-long hike through his favorite trails beneath grotesquely formed yet beautiful live oaks and across grassy meadows with superb views.
But there are many other wonderful events.
Sunday, May 11 at 10 AM
Overview of the Madera Open Space with Mark Miner. See Motorcycle Hill, the Julian Steps and the new Madera Open Space. 90 minutes.
Meet at the corner of Blake and Navellier (the lower entrance to Motorcycle Hill).
Sunday, May 4 at 4 PM
Albany Hill Hike. Join Roberta Maguire for a 1 hr. scenic historic hike up & around Albany Hill, El Cerrito’s namesake. The trail is steep in spots, with expansive views, lush vegetation and a rope swing. Off-leash dogs are fine
Meet at the Pacific East Mall Jumbotron just behind the bus stop on the east side of Pierce St., south of Central Ave.
Leader Roberta Maguire – 510 292 6370 – [email protected]
Saturday, April 26 9 AM
Help us commemorate Earth Day by pulling broom on Motorcycle Hill with the Trekkers and Friends of Five Creeks. The invasive and fire-prone French Broom is a bane to all those who spend time in the hills. Removing it is a great way to spend Earth Day and afterwards volunteers can come to a free lunch at the Community Center, 7007 Moeser Lane, El Cerrito. At the lunch, volunteers can meet with other volunteers, pick up information about sustainable living, enjoy a delicious lunch, make something crafty and enjoy some 1950s rock and roll music by Hot Rod Jukebox. The broom pull starts a 9 AM at the upper trail head of Motorcycle Hill between 7701 and 7705 Potrero. If you come late, follow the road until you find us.
Sunday, April 27 10 AM
Wildcat Marsh and Landfill Loop Trail, Richmond with Jenny Hammer. See birds, reclaimed landfill, bay views, and Wildcat and San Pablo Creeks.
Meet in parking lot, 1 Parr Blvd., off Richmond Pkwy. For carpooling, meet at El Cerrito Plaza BART parking lot, SW corner at 9:30 a.m.
Saturday, April 19 at 10 AM
Join the El Cerrito Trail Trekkers on Saturday, April 19, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. as we hop on our bicycles and explore the now-open Ohlone Greenway, traverse a little-known highway overpass, and feel the breezes along the Bay Trail. We will see frog habitat, the Dinosaur Forest, the location in the Bay where the twin creeks converge, and a beautiful Richmond park where local elementary school students have adopted Baxter Creek.
Bicycle helmets are required for this freewheeling, two-wheeling tour. Bring water. A windbreaker is recommended (for those Bay Trail breezes). Heavy rain will cancel.
Meet under the BART tracks on the south side of Hill Street, Del Norte BART station.
Please RSVP: [email protected] or [email protected].
Dust off your bike, top off the air in your tires, and come ride with us!
Saturday, April 19 at 10 AM
Tour of the Madera Open Space. Join Sarah and Robert for a short walk on the Madera open space.Come away with a first-hand impression of the benefits of this additional park space joining the north and south regions of Hillside Natural Area. We look forward to seeing you there! Plan to be there for about an hour and wear good shoes for “off-trail” hiking. You may also want to bring a small water bottle.
Leaders: Sarah [email protected] & Robert
Meet: Madera School parking lot, 8500 Madera Drive, El Cerrito, CA 94530
Sunday. April 6 at 10 AM
Overview of the Madera Open Space with Mark Miner. See Motorcycle Hill, the Julian Steps and the new Madera Open Space. 90 minutes.
Meet at the corner of Blake and Navellier (the lower entrance to Motorcycle Hill).
Sunday, April 6 at 4 PM
Albany Hill hike with Roberta Maguire. A scenic one hour hike up and around historic Albany Hill, the little hill that gave El Cerrito its name. The trail is steep in spots but the views are expansive. Off-leash dogs are fine.
Meet below the Pacific East Mall Jumbotron behind the bus stop on the east side of Pierce St., just south (~1000 ft.) of Central Ave.
Leader: Roberta Maguire [email protected]
Saturday, March 29 at 8:15 PM
Earth Hour on Motorcycle Hill with the El Cerrito Environmental Quality Committee and Friends of Five Creeks. As part of a worldwide effort to focus attention on human-caused climate change, El Cerrito will participate in Earth Hour – and so can you. For one hour, people will turn off lights and unneeded appliances.
Join us during this hour, from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 29, as Friends of Five Creeks, El Cerrito Trail Trekkers, and the El Cerrito Environmental Quality Committee lead a short walk onto Motorcycle Hill.
Bring a flashlight, although part of the fun is to keep it off and let your eyes adapt to dark. A short walk brings you to the end of the road, where there will be stargazing, refreshments, information ranging from global warming to exciting future prospects for the Hillside Natural Area, and more. Bring a camera for night photography, and binoculars or a portable telescope. Measure light pollution — an exciting citizen science opportunity.
Dress in layers, for changing weather. Park carefully on Potrero, with wheels to the curb and brake set. Rain cancels.
Meet at 8:15 at the trailhead between 7701 and 7705 Potrero Avenue.
Thursday, March 20 at 3 PM (Meeting Location Changed!)
Madera Open Space Hike with Jenny Hammer. El Cerrito hopes to acquire the Madera Open Space to fill a gap in its Hillside Natural Area. This is a beautiful 8-acre site with a meadow, forest, and creeks. The El Cerrito Open Space Fund, which includes Trekkers, is raising funds from the community to help pay for this land. Visit the site with us; be inspired!
This 90 minute hike will take in the Madera Open Space as well as Motorcycle Hill and other parts of the Hillside Natural Area.
Meet at 3 PM at Madera Elementary School, 8500 Madera Drive, off of Arlington
Thursday, March 6 at 3 PM
Madera Open Space Hike with Jenny Hammer. El Cerrito hopes to acquire the Madera Open Space to fill a gap in its Hillside Natural Area. This is a beautiful 8-acre site with a meadow, forest, and creeks. The El Cerrito Open Space Fund, which includes Trekkers, is raising funds from the community to help pay for this land. Visit the site with us; be inspired!
This 90 minute hike will take in the Madera Open Space as well as Motorcycle Hill and other parts of the Hillside Natural Area.
Meet at 3 PM at the corner of Blake and Navellier (the lower entrance to Motorcycle Hill)
Sunday, March 2 at 4 PM
Albany Hill hike with Roberta Maguire. A scenic one hour hike up and around historic Albany Hill, the little hill that gave El Cerrito its name. The trail is steep in spots but the views are expansive. Off-leash dogs are fine.
Meet below the Pacific East Mall Jumbotron behind the bus stop on the east side of Pierce St., just south (~1000 ft.) of Central Ave.
Leader: Roberta Maguire [email protected]
Sunday, March 2 at 10:00 AM
Overview of Madera Open Space with Jenny Hammer. El Cerrito hopes to acquire the Madera Open Space to fill a gap in its Hillside Natural Area. This is a beautiful 8-acre site with a meadow, forest, and creeks. The El Cerrito Open Space Fund, which includes Trekkers, is raising funds from the community to help pay for this land. Visit the site with us; be inspired!
This 90 minute hike will take in the Madera Open Space as well as Motorcycle Hill and other parts of the Hillside Natural Area.
Meet at 10 AM at the corner of Blake and Navellier (the lower entrance to Motorcycle Hill)
Saturday, March 1 at 11 AM
High Tide at Point Isabel. A joint walk with Citizens for East Shore Parks (CESP). Join a representative from CESP and Tom Gehling from the Trekkers for a two hour walk of the Point Isabel area between Cerrito Creek and Meeker Slough. Meet at the parking lot on Isabel St. (around the corner from the end of Central, just past Costco). 2 hours.
Sunday, February 23 at 11 AM.
Madera and the Hillside Natural Area with Tom Gehling. El Cerrito hopes to acquire the Madera Open Space to fill a gap in its Hillside Natural Area. This is a beautiful 8-acre site with a meadow, forest, and creeks. The El Cerrito Open Space Fund, which includes Trekkers, is raising funds from the community to help pay for this land. Visit the site with us; be inspired!
This 90 minute hike will take in parts of the southern section of the Hillside Natural Area as well as the Madera Open Space and the Julian Steps. Meet at the entrance to the Hillside Natural Area on Regency Ct., about 100 feet north of the intersection of Regency and Kent. Heavy rain cancels and rain or not, it is likely to be muddy and slippery. Dress accordingly.
Saturday, February 22 at 10 AM
Broom Pull with the Friends of Five Creeks in the Hillside Natural Area. Meet at 10 AM at the first, southern, entrance on Regency Court. To get there, from Contra Costa north of Moeser turn downhill, west, on Kent and take the first (and only) right onto Regency. The chained fire-road entrance is just past the turn. If you come late, walk down the road until you see them
Tools, gloves, and snack provided. No RSVP needed (except from groups). Wear long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toed shoes with good traction. Because of the possibility of poison oak, these are not for young children.
Sunday, February 2 at 9:30
North Berkeley Hills and campus with Jordan Herrmann. An architectural hike on the paths and trails of North Berkeley and the UC Berkeley campus. This hike is also listed with the California Alpine Club.
Meet Jordan at Live Oak Park on Shattuck Ave at the east end of Berryman St.
Sunday, February 2 at 4 PM
Albany Hill hike with Roberta Maguire. A scenic one hour hike up and around historic Albany Hill, the little hill that gave El Cerrito its name. The trail is steep in spots but the views are expansive. Off-leash dogs are fine.
Meet below the Pacific East Mall Jumbotron behind the bus stop on the east side of Pierce St., just south (~1000 ft.) of Central Ave.
Leader: Roberta Maguire [email protected]
Sunday, December 3 at 4 PM
Albany Hill hike with Roberta Maguire. A scenic one hour hike up and around historic Albany Hill, the little hill that gave El Cerrito its name. The trail is steep in spots but the views are expansive. Off-leash dogs are fine.
Meet below the Pacific East Mall Jumbotron behind the bus stop on the east side of Pierce St., just south (~1000 ft.) of Central Ave.
Saturday, December 2 at 10 AM
Broom pull in the Hillside Natural Area with Friends of Five Creeks. Join Friends of Five Creeks and the El Cerrito Trail Trekkers in removing invasive, fire-prone French broom in the beautiful El Cerrito Hillside Natural Area. A walk in is followed by work with magnificent Bay views. Tools, gloves, snacks, & water will be supplied. Wear long pants, long sleeves, socks, and closed-toed shoes with good traction.
Meet at the King Court entrance to the Hillside Natural Area , just below the intersection of King and Shevlin Drives, north of Moeser. 2.5 hours.
|
Saturday, November 4 at 1 PM
Architectural Walking Tour: The Hills with Dave Weinstein. Walk by and learn about some of the most architecturally important and beautiful homes in El Cerrito, including a Storybook home by Bay Tradition pioneer John Hudson Thomas, International Style beauties by Campbell & Wong and by Donald Olsen, some marvelous mid-century moderns, and two homes by one of the inventors of the Modern Movement, Richard Neutra. Dave Weinstein, author of Signature Architects of the SF Bay Area, leads. Co-sponsored by the El Cerrito Historical Society. Meet at Arlington Clubhouse, 1120 Arlington Blvd. 2 hours. |
|
Sunday, October 22 at 1 PM
The Artworks of Albany Bulb with Dave Weinstein and Susan Moffat. Join Susan Moffat, founder of Love the Bulb, for a walking tour of Albany Bulb to see artworks created over a number of years by many different artists — and learn about how this longtime open air art gallery, which is now part of Eastshore State park, may be threatened. The Bulb, a former dump and once home to a community of squatters, offers wonderful views of San Francisco Bay.
Love the Bulb is a community organization that presents art and performance events at the Albany Bulb that celebrate its unique place in the Bay Area art and natural ecosystems. Join their email mailing list at [email protected].
Meet: At the western end of Buchanan Street, past the bulb parking lot.
Contact: Dave Weinstein, 510-524-1737, [email protected].
The Artworks of Albany Bulb with Dave Weinstein and Susan Moffat. Join Susan Moffat, founder of Love the Bulb, for a walking tour of Albany Bulb to see artworks created over a number of years by many different artists — and learn about how this longtime open air art gallery, which is now part of Eastshore State park, may be threatened. The Bulb, a former dump and once home to a community of squatters, offers wonderful views of San Francisco Bay.
Love the Bulb is a community organization that presents art and performance events at the Albany Bulb that celebrate its unique place in the Bay Area art and natural ecosystems. Join their email mailing list at [email protected].
Meet: At the western end of Buchanan Street, past the bulb parking lot.
Contact: Dave Weinstein, 510-524-1737, [email protected].
|
Saturday. October 21 at 10 AM
History of the Hillside Natural Area with Dave Weinstein, Ralph Boniello and Mark Miner. Presented by El Cerrito Trail Trekkers, El Cerrito Historical Society, Friends of Five Creeks and the Environmental Quality Committee. Dave Weinstein, Mark Miner and Ralph Boniello lead a hike focusing on the natural history and human history of this 100-plus acre open space within our city. Saturday, Oct. 21, 10 a.m., to noon. Meet at the Schmidt Lane Trail head, on Schmidt Lane near the Recycling Center |
|
Saturday, October 14 at 10 AM
Monthly El Cerrito Trail Trekkers business meeting. Members welcome. Harding Park clubhouse, 7115 C Street. 10 Am ’til noon.
Saturday, October 7 at 10 AM
Terrace Cut-off Trail Clearing with Mark Miner. Join Mark and your fellow Trekkers to clean up along the Terrace Cutoff Trail, a side branch of the Stockton King Trail, clearing vegetation and loose material. Where appropriate clothing and bring water. Tools and gloves provided. Meet on Terrace Drive two houses down from where the intersection of Terrace, King and Contra Costa. 2.5 hours.
Sunday, October 1 at 4 PM
Albany Hill hike with Roberta Maguire. A scenic one hour hike up and around historic Albany Hill, the little hill that gave El Cerrito its name. The trail is steep in spots but the views are expansive. Off-leash dogs are fine.
Meet below the Pacific East Mall Jumbotron behind the bus stop on the east side of Pierce St., just south (~1000 ft.) of Central Ave.
Tuesday, September 12 at 6:30
Evening Ramble in the Hills with Alina Constantiescu. Join leader us for an evening ramble in-n-out of the Hillside trails. This 2.5-mile loop is a strenuous route sure to get our hearts going. We’ll climb up the upper Hillside trails and the Madera Open Space, head down Motorcycle Hill, and loop back up through the lower Hillside trails. We’ll keep a moderate pace and take breaks to enjoy views and conversation. Bring water, layers, and a headlamp/ flashlight/or flashlight app. Free. Schmidt Lane Trailhead, Hillside Natural Area, near Recycling Center, 7501 Schmidt. About 90 minutes.
Saturday, September 9 at 10 AM
Monthly El Cerrito Trail Trekkers business meeting. Members welcome. Harding Park clubhouse, 7115 C Street. 10 Am ’til noon.
Monday, August 14 at 5:30 PM
A Stroll Atop the Hayward Fault in El Cerrito, Join hike leader Jenny Hammer and U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Geologist Dr. David P. Schwartz to explore the Hayward Fault. We will stroll atop the fault as it traverses the Berkeley Country Club (formerly Mira Vista) golf course. Learn about paleo-seismological investigations conducted in El Cerrito that detail the earthquakes that have shaken our section of the fault in the past. Learn geology and walk on the actual scarp. Be reminded of the probabilities of a “Big One” and learn about preparations you should make now. The hike is mostly on grass, with very moderate elevation changes. Bring water and snacks. Meet-up location is served by AC Transit Bus #7. Reservations for this hike are required as we have a limit on participant numbers. To reserve a spot and receive notification of the meeting place, contact: Leader: Jenny Hammer, 510-524-1590, [email protected].
Saturday, August 12 at 10 AM
Monthly El Cerrito Trail Trekkers business meeting. Members welcome. Harding Park clubhouse, 7115 C Street. 10 Am ’til noon.
Saturday, August 5 at 10 AM
Geological Hike of the El Cerrito Hills with Gary Prost and Dave Weinstein. Meet at the Schmidt Lane trailhead of the Hillside Natural Area. 3 hours,
Wednesday, July 12 at 6:30 PM
Join leader Alina Constantiescu on an evening ramble through the trails and steep sidewalks high in the hills. This 4-mile loop is a strenuous route sure to get our hearts going. We’ll climb up Hillside trails, check out Arlington Park, enjoy the trails in Camp Herms, and loop back down neighborhood streets and the Great Western Power Trail. We’ll keep a moderate pace and take breaks to enjoy views and conversation. Bring water, layers, and a headlamp/ flashlight/or flashlight app. Free. Meet at the Schmidt Lane Trailhead, Hillside Natural Area, near Recycling Center, 7501 Schmidt. 2.5 hours.
Saturday, July 8 at 10 AM
Monthly El Cerrito Trail Trekkers business meeting. Members welcome. Harding Park clubhouse, 7115 C Street. 10 Am ’til noon.
Saturday, June 24 at 10 AM
Terrace Cut-Off Trail Construction with Mark Miner. We need to clear brush, weeds, and debris, do some minor grading and perhaps more.
Monthly El Cerrito Trail Trekkers business meeting. Members welcome. Harding Park clubhouse, 7115 C Street. 10 Am ’til noon.
Saturday, October 7 at 10 AM
Terrace Cut-off Trail Clearing with Mark Miner. Join Mark and your fellow Trekkers to clean up along the Terrace Cutoff Trail, a side branch of the Stockton King Trail, clearing vegetation and loose material. Where appropriate clothing and bring water. Tools and gloves provided. Meet on Terrace Drive two houses down from where the intersection of Terrace, King and Contra Costa. 2.5 hours.
Sunday, October 1 at 4 PM
Albany Hill hike with Roberta Maguire. A scenic one hour hike up and around historic Albany Hill, the little hill that gave El Cerrito its name. The trail is steep in spots but the views are expansive. Off-leash dogs are fine.
Meet below the Pacific East Mall Jumbotron behind the bus stop on the east side of Pierce St., just south (~1000 ft.) of Central Ave.
Tuesday, September 12 at 6:30
Evening Ramble in the Hills with Alina Constantiescu. Join leader us for an evening ramble in-n-out of the Hillside trails. This 2.5-mile loop is a strenuous route sure to get our hearts going. We’ll climb up the upper Hillside trails and the Madera Open Space, head down Motorcycle Hill, and loop back up through the lower Hillside trails. We’ll keep a moderate pace and take breaks to enjoy views and conversation. Bring water, layers, and a headlamp/ flashlight/or flashlight app. Free. Schmidt Lane Trailhead, Hillside Natural Area, near Recycling Center, 7501 Schmidt. About 90 minutes.
Saturday, September 9 at 10 AM
Monthly El Cerrito Trail Trekkers business meeting. Members welcome. Harding Park clubhouse, 7115 C Street. 10 Am ’til noon.
Monday, August 14 at 5:30 PM
A Stroll Atop the Hayward Fault in El Cerrito, Join hike leader Jenny Hammer and U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Geologist Dr. David P. Schwartz to explore the Hayward Fault. We will stroll atop the fault as it traverses the Berkeley Country Club (formerly Mira Vista) golf course. Learn about paleo-seismological investigations conducted in El Cerrito that detail the earthquakes that have shaken our section of the fault in the past. Learn geology and walk on the actual scarp. Be reminded of the probabilities of a “Big One” and learn about preparations you should make now. The hike is mostly on grass, with very moderate elevation changes. Bring water and snacks. Meet-up location is served by AC Transit Bus #7. Reservations for this hike are required as we have a limit on participant numbers. To reserve a spot and receive notification of the meeting place, contact: Leader: Jenny Hammer, 510-524-1590, [email protected].
Saturday, August 12 at 10 AM
Monthly El Cerrito Trail Trekkers business meeting. Members welcome. Harding Park clubhouse, 7115 C Street. 10 Am ’til noon.
Saturday, August 5 at 10 AM
Geological Hike of the El Cerrito Hills with Gary Prost and Dave Weinstein. Meet at the Schmidt Lane trailhead of the Hillside Natural Area. 3 hours,
Wednesday, July 12 at 6:30 PM
Join leader Alina Constantiescu on an evening ramble through the trails and steep sidewalks high in the hills. This 4-mile loop is a strenuous route sure to get our hearts going. We’ll climb up Hillside trails, check out Arlington Park, enjoy the trails in Camp Herms, and loop back down neighborhood streets and the Great Western Power Trail. We’ll keep a moderate pace and take breaks to enjoy views and conversation. Bring water, layers, and a headlamp/ flashlight/or flashlight app. Free. Meet at the Schmidt Lane Trailhead, Hillside Natural Area, near Recycling Center, 7501 Schmidt. 2.5 hours.
Saturday, July 8 at 10 AM
Monthly El Cerrito Trail Trekkers business meeting. Members welcome. Harding Park clubhouse, 7115 C Street. 10 Am ’til noon.
Saturday, June 24 at 10 AM
Terrace Cut-Off Trail Construction with Mark Miner. We need to clear brush, weeds, and debris, do some minor grading and perhaps more.
|
Saturday, June 17 at 10 AM
It’s Our Fault Hike. Presented by El Cerrito Trail Trekkers and the Environmental Quality Committee. Join hike leader Jenny Hammer along with U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Geologist Dr. David P. Schwartz on a walk to explore evidence of the Hayward Fault. Learn about paleo-seismological investigations conducted right here in El Cerrito which detail the historical and last earthquakes to shake our section of the fault. Learn the geology of the area and see a stunning view of the scarp. Straddle two sides of the fault at a curb offset created by fault creep. Be reminded of the probabilities of a “Big One” centered on our section of the fault and learn about preparations you should make NOW for peace of mind in earthquake country. This is an El Cerrito Centennial Celebration event, so bring your passport (or get one on the hike). The route is approximately four miles, mostly on paved surfaces, with moderate elevation gain. Bring water and snacks. Meet at the Madera Elementary School parking lot, 8500 Madera Dr., at 10:00 a.m. to return at 1:00 p.m. |
|
Saturday, June 10 at 10 AM
Monthly El Cerrito Trail Trekkers business meeting. Members welcome. Harding Park clubhouse, 7115 C Street. 10 Am ’til noon.
Sunday, June 4 at 4 PM
Madera Open Space Trail Maintenance with Mark Miner. Pull Broom at the margins of trail and more. Meet at the top of the steps on Madera Circle, between house numbers 1540 and 1560 Madera Circle. 2.5 hours.
Monthly El Cerrito Trail Trekkers business meeting. Members welcome. Harding Park clubhouse, 7115 C Street. 10 Am ’til noon.
Sunday, June 4 at 4 PM
Madera Open Space Trail Maintenance with Mark Miner. Pull Broom at the margins of trail and more. Meet at the top of the steps on Madera Circle, between house numbers 1540 and 1560 Madera Circle. 2.5 hours.
|
Saturday, June 3 at 11 AM
When Gamblers Ran Our Town: A Walking Tour. Presented by El Cerrito Historical Society and El Cerrito Trail Trekkers. Dave Weinstein will lead a two-hour walking tour, starting at the Bayview Eagles Hall, 3223 Carlson Blvd. near Central Avenue, to see buildings and sites once made lively by gamblers, prostitutes, legitimate entertainers and classy restaurateurs. 2 hours. |
|
|
Sunday, May 21 at 10 AM
The 4th Annual Hillside Festival. Free. All day. More information here. Saturday, May 13 at 10 AM Monthly El Cerrito Trail Trekkers business meeting. Members welcome. Harding Park clubhouse, 7115 C Street. 10 Am ’til noon. Saturday, May 6 at 10 AM Motorcycle Hill Broom Pull. Join Mark Miner and your neighbors as we try to make a dent in our perennial scourge, french broom. Meet at the bottom of the hill, at the “corner” of Blake and Navellier. 2.5 hours. |
|
|
Saturday, March 18 at 1 PM
El Cerrito Architectural Walking tour with Dave Weinstein. See historical homes on the flatlands of El Cerrito. Co-sponsored by the El Cerrito Historical Society. A El Cerrito Centennial event. Meet at the Rodini Home at 1715 Elm Street. 2 hours. Saturday, March 11 at 10 AM Monthly El Cerrito Trail Trekkers business meeting. Members welcome. Harding Park clubhouse, 7115 C Street. 10 Am ’til noon. |
|
|
Sunday, March 5 at 10 AM
Historical Pavers of Highway 40 with Jenny Hammer. El Cerrito has many pavers marking historical places along San Pablo Avenue. Join Jenny for a look at some of these. Meet at San Pablo and Carlson (in front of Peet’s) at 10 a.m. 3 hours. |
|
Saturday, February 25 at 10 AM
Sunday, January 26 at 2 PM
The El Cerrito Trail Trekkers Annual Public Meeting
This will be a great opportunity to mingle with fellow trail enthusiasts and enjoy refreshments.
President Dave Weinstein will present a slide show on our recent accomplishments and our upcoming challenges.
Also on the agenda will be Nominations for Officers. Interested in serving and helping plan and build a network of paths? In helping acquire open space? Fund raise for the Open Space Acquisition? Or leading hikes? Nominate yourself or a friend.
January 26 at 2 PM at the Harding Park Clubhouse, 7115 C Street
Thursday, January 23 at 3PM
Thursday, February 6 at 3 PM
Thursday, February 20 at 3 PM
Madera Open Space Hike with Jenny Hammer. El Cerrito hopes to acquire the Madera Open Space to fill a gap in its Hillside Natural Area. This is a beautiful 8-acre site with a meadow, forest, and creeks. The El Cerrito Open Space Fund, which includes Trekkers, is raising funds from the community to help pay for this land. Visit the site with us; be inspired!
This 90 minute hike will take in the Madera Open Space as well as Motorcycle Hill and other parts of the Hillside Natural Area.
Meet at 3 PM at the corner of Blake and Navellier (the lower entrance to Motorcycle Hill)
Sunday, January 5 – 10 AM
Madera Open Space hike with Dave Weinstein. El Cerrito hopes to acquire the Madera Open Space to fill a gap in its Hillside Natural Area. This is a beautiful 8-acre site with a meadow, forest, and creeks. The El Cerrito Open Space Fund, which includes Trekkers, is raising funds from the community to help pay for this land. Visit the site with us; be inspired!
This one hour-plus hike will take in the Madera Open Space and part of the Hillside Natural Area. It includes steep stairways and hillsides. Be prepared for a brief but enjoyable workout!
Meet Dave Weinstein atop the Stairs to Somewhere, by 1540 Madera Circle, near Madera School.
Sunday, January 5 – 4 PM
Albany Hill hike with Roberta Maguire. A scenic one hour hike up and around historic Albany Hill, the little hill that gave El Cerrito its name. The trail is steep in spots but the views are expansive. Off-leash dogs are fine.
Meet below the Pacific East Mall Jumbotron behind the bus stop on the east side of Pierce St., just south (~1000 ft.) of Central Ave.
Leader Roberta Maguire [email protected]
Saturday, December 14 – 10 AM
The Motorcycle Hill work party scheduled for this day is CANCELLED!Sorry, please watch this space for the announcement of the next work party.
Saturday, December 7 – 10:30 AM
The City of El Cerrito Environmental Quality Committee presents:
Rebels with a Cause 10:30 AM at the Rialto Cinemas Cerrito, 10070 San Pablo Avenue, El Cerrito, CA
Sunday, January 26 at 2 PM
The El Cerrito Trail Trekkers Annual Public Meeting
This will be a great opportunity to mingle with fellow trail enthusiasts and enjoy refreshments.
President Dave Weinstein will present a slide show on our recent accomplishments and our upcoming challenges.
Also on the agenda will be Nominations for Officers. Interested in serving and helping plan and build a network of paths? In helping acquire open space? Fund raise for the Open Space Acquisition? Or leading hikes? Nominate yourself or a friend.
January 26 at 2 PM at the Harding Park Clubhouse, 7115 C Street
Thursday, January 23 at 3PM
Thursday, February 6 at 3 PM
Thursday, February 20 at 3 PM
Madera Open Space Hike with Jenny Hammer. El Cerrito hopes to acquire the Madera Open Space to fill a gap in its Hillside Natural Area. This is a beautiful 8-acre site with a meadow, forest, and creeks. The El Cerrito Open Space Fund, which includes Trekkers, is raising funds from the community to help pay for this land. Visit the site with us; be inspired!
This 90 minute hike will take in the Madera Open Space as well as Motorcycle Hill and other parts of the Hillside Natural Area.
Meet at 3 PM at the corner of Blake and Navellier (the lower entrance to Motorcycle Hill)
Sunday, January 5 – 10 AM
Madera Open Space hike with Dave Weinstein. El Cerrito hopes to acquire the Madera Open Space to fill a gap in its Hillside Natural Area. This is a beautiful 8-acre site with a meadow, forest, and creeks. The El Cerrito Open Space Fund, which includes Trekkers, is raising funds from the community to help pay for this land. Visit the site with us; be inspired!
This one hour-plus hike will take in the Madera Open Space and part of the Hillside Natural Area. It includes steep stairways and hillsides. Be prepared for a brief but enjoyable workout!
Meet Dave Weinstein atop the Stairs to Somewhere, by 1540 Madera Circle, near Madera School.
Sunday, January 5 – 4 PM
Albany Hill hike with Roberta Maguire. A scenic one hour hike up and around historic Albany Hill, the little hill that gave El Cerrito its name. The trail is steep in spots but the views are expansive. Off-leash dogs are fine.
Meet below the Pacific East Mall Jumbotron behind the bus stop on the east side of Pierce St., just south (~1000 ft.) of Central Ave.
Leader Roberta Maguire [email protected]
Saturday, December 14 – 10 AM
The Motorcycle Hill work party scheduled for this day is CANCELLED!Sorry, please watch this space for the announcement of the next work party.
Saturday, December 7 – 10:30 AM
The City of El Cerrito Environmental Quality Committee presents:
Rebels with a Cause 10:30 AM at the Rialto Cinemas Cerrito, 10070 San Pablo Avenue, El Cerrito, CA
They were unpaid and they were crazy. They were…
REBELS WITH A CAUSEHOW A BATTLE OVER LAND CHANGED THE AMERICAN LANDSCAPE FOREVER
a film by Nancy Kelly and Kenji Yamamoto
produced in association with KRCB North Bay Public Media
Running Time: 72 Minutes
REBELS WITH A CAUSEHOW A BATTLE OVER LAND CHANGED THE AMERICAN LANDSCAPE FOREVER
a film by Nancy Kelly and Kenji Yamamoto
produced in association with KRCB North Bay Public Media
Running Time: 72 Minutes
A stunningly beautiful documentary narrated by Academy Award winning actress
Frances McDormand, REBELS WITH A CAUSE spotlights a ragtag group of rebels who fought to keep developers from taking over the breathtaking landscape of the northern California coast and instead established public parks, the first organic dairy west of the Mississippi and the first agricultural land trust in the US.
Celebrate past open space triumphs and be part of the new open space opportunities in the El Cerrito hills.
There will be a panel discussion afterwards to talk about a rare opportunity to acquire new open space along Madera Circle linking and expanding the north and south portions of El Cerrito’s treasured Hillside Natural Area. Speakers include the Trust for Public Land, the El Cerrito Open Space Campaign, and the El Cerrito Trail Trekkers.
Saturday, December 7, – 10:00 AM
Missing Link hike with the Berkeley Path Wanderers. Join us for a walk through the Hillside Natural Area, taking in the well known southern section, the newly accessible northern section (Motorcycle Hill) and the missing link that connects them, the Madera Open Space! Join Tom Gehling from the El Cerrito Trail Trekkers and members from the Berkeley Path Wanderers at the Schmidt Lane entrance at 10 AM for a 2 hour walk and learn about the campaign to preserve this important potential addition to the Hillside Natural Area. Some parts are steep and you should be sure to bring water and wear appropriate footwear. Dogs are welcome. For more information contact Tom at [email protected].
Frances McDormand, REBELS WITH A CAUSE spotlights a ragtag group of rebels who fought to keep developers from taking over the breathtaking landscape of the northern California coast and instead established public parks, the first organic dairy west of the Mississippi and the first agricultural land trust in the US.
Celebrate past open space triumphs and be part of the new open space opportunities in the El Cerrito hills.
There will be a panel discussion afterwards to talk about a rare opportunity to acquire new open space along Madera Circle linking and expanding the north and south portions of El Cerrito’s treasured Hillside Natural Area. Speakers include the Trust for Public Land, the El Cerrito Open Space Campaign, and the El Cerrito Trail Trekkers.
Saturday, December 7, – 10:00 AM
Missing Link hike with the Berkeley Path Wanderers. Join us for a walk through the Hillside Natural Area, taking in the well known southern section, the newly accessible northern section (Motorcycle Hill) and the missing link that connects them, the Madera Open Space! Join Tom Gehling from the El Cerrito Trail Trekkers and members from the Berkeley Path Wanderers at the Schmidt Lane entrance at 10 AM for a 2 hour walk and learn about the campaign to preserve this important potential addition to the Hillside Natural Area. Some parts are steep and you should be sure to bring water and wear appropriate footwear. Dogs are welcome. For more information contact Tom at [email protected].