This is a Bufferlands event.
Join us on Saturday, April 25th, for the Birds and Blooms Open Trail Day at the Bufferlands, any time from 7 am to 1 pm, to visit areas normally closed to the public. The event is FREE. You do not need to sign up in advance; you can visit any time during open hours (7 am-1 pm). There will be about 4 miles of open trails, though we will close at 1 pm.
This is a great time of the year to see a wide variety of plants in bloom, including wetland and vernal pool species. Birds should be at their most conspicuous, with lingering winter species, singing nesters, and migrants on their way north. With luck, you might see a jackrabbit…or 12.
IMPORTANT: Access will be on the eastern side of the property, and some locations are rarely visited on public tours. See directions below.
Trails are a mix of gravel and dirt roads, plus mowed paths around seasonal wetlands with stretches of uneven ground, though the area is generally flat. There are some shady areas, but much of it is pretty open, so the morning will be the most enjoyable.
Staff and docents will be on hand to answer questions and assist with logistics.
Aside from a portable toilet, there are no facilities, so plan to bring the water and food you need. If you have binoculars, bring them for wildlife viewing.
***As with all Bufferlands events, no pets, please.***
Directions: I-5 south of Sacramento, exit at Cosumnes River Blvd. Drive East to Franklin Blvd. Drive south on Franklin for approx. 1.7 miles, then turn right onto Sims Rd (a landscaped entrance with no traffic light). In 300 yards, turn right at the sign and follow the signs to the parking area. The road will be a mowed service path, but it is negotiable by all vehicles—drive slowly for a safe, smooth ride.
Hwy-99 south of Sacramento, exit at Cosumnes River Blvd. Drive west to Franklin Blvd. Drive south on Franklin approx. 1.7 miles and turn right onto Sims Rd (a landscaped entrance with no traffic light). In 300 yards, turn right at the sign and follow the signs to the parking area. The road will be a mowed service path, but negotiable by all vehicles–drive slowly for a safe and smooth ride.
If coming from the south, from the intersection of Laguna Blvd and Franklin Blvd, go north on Franklin Blvd for one mile. Turn left onto Sims Rd (a landscaped entrance with no traffic light). In 300 yards, turn right at the sign and follow the signs to the parking area. The road will be a mowed service path, but negotiable by all vehicles–drive slowly for a safe and smooth ride.
Please see the directions above to avoid confusion, but here is a link to the gate on Sims Rd so you can see what your target is: https://maps.app.goo.gl/VEWK6c28SoFJsCAD6
We hope to see you there!
Tree Swallow © Chris Conard