Thursday, March 26, 2026 — 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Leaders: Kurt Rademacher & David Edelson
Please sign up for this field trip on MeetUp.
One step ahead of Mount Tamalpais’s wildflowers, in March the ancient ferns are well into their glory, unfurling on shady creekbanks and sunny cliff faces. Ever find the diversity of these feathery fronds confusing? Want to be able to distinguish a Lady Fern from a Coastal Wood Fern, or the Leather Fern from a Birds-Foot Fern? How about a 6-foot Giant Chain Fern from a 2-inch Lip Fern! Come join us for an exploration of about a dozen different species, their intriguing life cycles, extreme habitat preferences, and how to identify them. This will involve some close looking and attention to detail, so please bring a 4-power or stronger hand-lens if you have one.
Gathering at Pantoll Campground parking, on Panoramic Highway, we plan to hike about two miles, introducing fern anatomy and biology on some common species, and then on to less common cliff brakes and lip ferns. Driving on to nearby Rock Springs (free parking), we will search for other denizens of woodlands and serpentine outcrops.
Directions: Meet us at the Pantoll Campground (Pantoll Campground – Google Maps) parking lot on Panoramic Highway, about 30 minutes from Highway 101 exits in Mill Valley, or 10 minutes up from Stinson Beach. State Park parking fee is $8 (cash or check) or check out a State Parks pass from your local library. There are restrooms at both Pan Toll and Rock Springs.
Bring: Water, a snack/lunch. Hiking pole is suggested, as trails are steep and rocky at some places. Dress in layers, mittens, and bring rain-gear, as weather on the mountain can change quickly.
Limit: 20. Rain cancels. Check Meetup for notification.
