Date:
Gather under the towering redwoods at California’s oldest State Park—Big Basin—to celebrate 150 years of parks, which have preserved our state’s most natural and treasured places.
Although Yosemite was the first state park originally, it become a National Park, thus giving Big Basin the title of the oldest state park. However, this runner-up holds incredible historical value—this is where “Save the Trees!” started it’s echo and where activism for conservation began. Events will be held all day long at the park, celebrating the accomplishments from 1864 to now.
Timeline Tree: Changing Times among the Ageless Giants
9am-5pm
Pay a visit at some point during the day to a downed 100-ft redwood that tells the story of time.
Coffee Talk and Crafts
9am-12pm
Free hot drinks, crafts for kids and a helpful park docent await you in the Sempervirens Room (next to Park Headquarters).
Old-Time Redwood Walk
10am
Park docent Scott Peden takes you back in time via a 1924 Redwood Loop Walk. Old maps and photos show how this trail has changed with time. The walk is one mile and will last for 2 hours. Meet at Park Headquarters.
Redwood Loop Walk
11am
What’s a historic trip to Big Basin without saying hello to the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the Chimney Tree? This half-mile walk will last 90 minutes, and is stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.
Horse Trails
11:30am
Back in the day, horses played a big role in Big Basin. Join Bellarose the horse and docent Peggy O’Shea for stories about how Spanish explorers, early settlers and the lumber and tanning industries benefited from horses. Meet at Park Headquarters.
Big Basin Melodrama
1pm
The redwood loop trail comes alive with characters from the past, including a pioneering homesteader, an early conservationist, the first female ranger and more. This half-mile walk will last for 1.5 hours, and is stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.
Once Upon a Nest
3pm
Learn about the history of the endangered marbled murrelet, including its discovery here in the center of Big Basin. Docent Karen DeMello will guide you through the forest, where you’ll see other typical birds on a 1.5 mile walk. Bring your binocs for the best birding experience. Meet at Park Headquarters.
Old-Fashioned Children’s Games
3-5pm
The kiddos are invited to stop by to play some old-school games, where there will be fun for all ages. Meet at the Old Lodge.
Campfire!
6:30-7pm—Marshmallow roasting
7pm—Program begins
Gather around the fire to celebrate California State Park’s Sesquicentennial (that’s 150 years!). Hear tales of activism and conservation that took root in Big Basin years ago, and how they still take root today! Sticks and mallows provided. Wheelchair and stroller accessible. Well-mannered dogs are welcome.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park is located 9 miles outside of Boulder Creek on Hwy 236. 21600 Big Basin Way. Event is free, but day-use parking will cost $10. For more information, call 831.338.8883.
Photo by mindgrow on Flickr.
