North Bay: The Nature of Ring Mountain

Join US as we hike the slopes of Ring MOUNTAIN IN SEARCH OF THE RARE AND ENDEMIC TIBURON MARIPOSA LILY AND OTHER BOTANIC JEWELS.As we walk, we'll hear the story of 19th-century pioneer John Reed and see evidence of even earlier habitation by Native Americans — pounding rocks and petroglyphs. We'll also see unusual geological features and learn why geologists exclaim "Oh schist!" at the very mention of Ring Mountain. TOTAL DISTANCE This is a moderate hike of about four miles with several hundred feet in elevation gain. LEADERS Cathy Petrick WEATHER POLICY Rain cancels. COST Free; RSVP required. WHERE TO MEET We will assemble at the gate for the Phyllis Ellman Trail off Paradise Drive. From Highway 101 in Corte Madera, take the exit for Tamalpais Dr east. Go straight onto San Clemente, which merges into Paradise Drive after 0.4 miles. Follow Paradise Dr approximately 1 mile (go past Westward Dr). The gate is on the right. NOTES Bring water and snacks. Dress in layers and wear good hiking shoes. Bring poles if you normally use them. If you have questions about this outing email Ken Lavin or phone 415-543-6771 x 321.  ------------------------- Like most of you, we are closely monitoring COVID-19 news and information, and we’re following guidelines from the World Health Organization [https://slack-redir.net/link?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.who.int%2Femergencies%2Fdiseases%2Fnovel-coronavirus-2019%2Fadvice-for-public], CDC [https://slack-redir.net/link?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fcommunity%2Findex.html], and local government to stay healthy. Based on that guidance, our small group outdoor hikes will continue this week. However, we ask that participants and leaders follow recommended public health guidelines and social distancing protocols to stay safe. View our protocols here [https://www.greenbelt.org/greenbelt-alliance-outings-and-events-update-covid-19/]. _Photo: Ken Lavin_