When: Thursday, May 11 10 AM for approximately 2 hours)
Where: Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve - Sibley Staging Area 6800 Skyline Blvd, Oakland
Contact: Jeanette Ward, jbwardhmb@gmail.com 650.954.7476
Registration Recommended so we know to look for you - You may also self register
Who: Members/volunteers and their guests
Accessibility: Not Wheelchair accessible
Sibley volcanic regional Preserve
Round Top loop with options - good for all!
NOTE THE TIME CHANGE!
Description: For some wonderful pics and info from our member Ron Sipherd click HERE While there are several trails in the preserve, Round Top is advertised as easy, so this walk should be good for all skill levels. It is paved with some elevation and some shade, and the loop is under 2 miles. If we have enough walk leaders, some may choose alternative trails for more challenge.
The trail starts out in a forested understory, then opens into rolling grassland hill, and concludes on a shaded Skyline Trail back to the staging area. Round Top Trail offers panoramic views of the hills, valleys, and cities. One can avoid steep climbs by turning around at Quarry Road.
For those who detour to other trails, Volcanic Trail is lined with different types of volcanic rock that help tell the story of the formation of the landscape and how it has changed over time.
Before we start out, we will discuss the options and plan accordingly for easy and more challenging trails.
At least two man-made labyrinths exist in the Preserve. The first, and arguably most frequently visited, is known as the Mazzariello Labyrinth. Constructed in 1990 and donated as a "gift to the world" by East Bay resident Helena Mazzariello.
For our hardier walkers, there are trails from the route to view labyrinths.
The visitor center at the Skyline Boulevard entrance is unstaffed and offers brochures for self-guided tours. It also features depictions of the region's volcanic geology.
Where to meet: Sibley Staging Area 6800 Skyline Blvd. Oakland. Meet at the visitor display near the parking lot.
What to bring: Binoculars if you have them, good hiking shoes for the trails, layered clothing for variable weather, water, windbreaker, hat, snacks. Hiking poles are optional, but a good idea for those who want some upper body exercise. Bring your cell phone if you have one!
Directions: From Hwy 13 take Park Ave exit in Oakland, turn left onto Park, then left onto Mountain Blvd for two short blocks, then right onto Snake. Follow Snake up to Skyline Blvd - 6800. In order to stay on Snake (and not end up on Shepherd Canyon) you'll need to make a left turn at just a short distance up Snake, about two blocks. Meet at the Visitor Display near the parking lot.
Transportation: Need a ride? Members can request a ride from the Ashby Village office- 510-204-9200. Or have your guest bring you, and join you on the walk.