Local Herping Spots

Places to herp the day away.

If you live in the Sacramento Valley there are some great trails to hike.

You could take a wild-river canyon hike where you’ll encounter raging rapids, soothing pools, a loud waterfall at a dam, and a tranquil lake. You could start near the confluence of the north and middle forks of the American River, and follow the North Fork’s deep and rocky canyon journey where it is interrupted by serene Lake Clementine.Want to know how to find these and other great sites check out – www.trails.com Look under “the Sacramento & Central Valley”.

*NOTE* Trails.com is a member/fee site.
www.ncgold.com/recreation/indeptrl.html

Check out information on the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge, Sacramento NWR is in the Sacramento Valley of north-central California. Wetlands comprise about 70 percent of the total acreage. Approximately 3,500 acres. Recreation activities include wildlife observation, study, and photography. There is a year round self-guided auto tour. Walking trails are open sunrise to sunset. A multilevel viewing platform gives a panoramic view of the Sacramento Valley and wildlife viewing among the treetops. For a recorded message providing public use information, call (530) 934-7774. or go to – www.activities.wildernet.com

Western Skink

UC Davis Natural Reserve System

Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve

http://nrs.ucdavis.edu/stebbins/natural/reptiles.htm

Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve is open for hiking year-round, every day from sunrise to sunset. Before you go, look through their website for information on the reserves and print out a copy of the topographic map to guide you as you hike.
Cold Canyon is a lovely spot, but it has its hazards. The trail has become quite rough and steep in places as a result of landslides, and creek crossings contain slippery rocks. Watch your step! In the summer, and even in the spring, Cold Canyon can get quite warm, so the best time to hike is during the cooler morning. If you plan to hike later in the day, bring a hat and water to prevent heat exhaustion during hiking.

Three species of vertebrates living on the reserve are potentially dangerous. Mountain lions, black bears, and rattlesnakes are present, although your probability of encountering these species is remote. With the possible exception of mountain lions, most animals will be more scared of you, and will not be a threat as long as you respect the animals space. Black bears will most likely flee as soon as you encounter them. Rattlesnakes will usually warn you with the “buzz” of their rattle. Because mountain lions can be more dangerous than bears and snakes, always travel with a partner, and keep any children you bring with you in your sight. In the very rare case that you encounter a moutain lion, act threatening: stand your ground, make noise, stand tall, and if necessary, throw sticks or rocks.

Poison oak is present everywhere, including right along the trail in many places. In addition, deer ticks are present. Deer ticks are potential carriers of Lyme disease, and the best way to not be exposed to the disease is to avoid being bitten by the ticks. Wear long pants to avoid both poison oak and deer ticks. Insect repellent sprayed on your shoes, socks, and pants will further reduce your likelihood of picking up ticks.

Share with us where you go in Northern California and remember please leave nature the way you found it, look but do not touch.

Other places to find info on where to hike.

http://www.parks.ca.gov/

http://www.cosumnes.org/

Independence Trail

If you want to enjoy a day in Gold Country, you must take Hwy 49 up to Independence Trail. Located north of Nevada City and full of waterfalls, scenic vistas, and a mountain stream, its a great place to spend the day and see a few critters.