Wilder Ranch Coastal Trail Hike- May, 2023

Twenty retirees braved the wind dressed in layers as we embarked on the Wilder Ranch Coastal Trail hike. But soon the all too familiar May gray day magically became a beautiful, blue-sky day. Not only was the warm weather an unexpected treat, but we were also fortunate to have three (!) docents lead our group along the Coastal Trail. We learned about native and non-native vegetation and saw the Ranch’s restoration efforts to return the area to its native vegetation. What an amazing contrast to the wilder areas overgrown with non-native plants. We also learned about the history and geological development of the Ranch area. Every turn of the path revealed another gorgeous vista and interesting sight: a beach full of seals and pups, numerous seabirds including cormorants, quickly darting cliff swallows, nesting sea gulls and Pigeon Guillemots with their bright red feet. A small group ventured down the cliff and were treated to a view of the beautiful Fern Grotto Beach. We could not have asked for a better day.