Frazier Falls for fall colors (Plumas Co., CA), October 7th. Meet at 8:00 am at the McDonald’s at the Lemmon Valley exit on highway 395, north of Reno. Second meeting place at 9:00 at the park and ride at the intersection of Highways 70 and 89 at Blairsden, near Graeagle, CA. Leaders: John Dyer (775) 677-2714 and Fred Peterson (775) 747-2364.
September 2006
Fall colors and seeds, September 23rd. For details, call leaders: John Dyer (775) 677-2714 and John Reid (530) 546-4127 (M-Th) or (760) 932-9861 (F-Su).
August 2006
Grover Falls or Burnside Lake (Alpine Co., CA), August 19th. Meet at 8:00 am at the pink Scolari’s at 8165 S. Virginia St. Second meeting place at 8:45 near the southeast corner of Albertson’s North Carson Store. When you come into Carson City do not get on the new freeway. Albertson’s is west of highway 395 just past Glen Eagles Restaurant. Third meeting place at 9:30 at the Dairy Queen on the northwest corner of the junction of highways 395 and 88 at the north end of Minden. Leaders: Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567 and John Reid (530) 546-4127 (M-Th) and (760) 932-9861 (F-Su). [A welcome dip in Grover Hot Springs ($5.00) is an option after the field trip].
New Mount Rose Trail (Washoe Co.), August 1st (Tuesday!). Meet at 8:00 am at the pink Scolari’s at 8165 S. Virginia St. Leader: Jerry Tiehm (775) 329-1645.
July 2006
North Loop Trail, Mt. Charleston Wilderness (Clark Co.), July 22nd. While everyone is sizzling down in the Valley, you can join Trip Leaders Trent Draper and Gary Reese to botanize at higher elevations. The North Loop Trail starts around 8500 ft, just off the Deer Creek Highway and near Hilltop campground, we will hike close to 10,000 feet. Altitude sickness is always a possibility. We will hike 2-3 miles from the trailhead into the Mt. Charleston Wilderness to where the trail levels off into a nice Pinus longaeva (bristlecone pine) grove. We will talk about plant communities along the way and potentially see many species of concern such as Arenaria kingii ssp. rosea, Castilleja martinii var. clokeyi, Draba jaegeri, Ericameria compacta, Lesquerella hitchcockii, Pedicularis semibarbata var. charlestonensis, Penstemon leiophyllus var. keckii, Penstemon thompsoniae ssp. jaegeri, and Salvia dorrii var. clokeyi. We will also be watching for other species of concern that may occur in the area such as Townsendia jonesii var. tumulosa, Viola charlestonensis, Sphaeromeria compacta, and Phacelia hastata var. charlestonensis as well as many montane plant species. Nice views of the Spring Mountains and on a clear day, Fortification Hill at Lake Mead National Recreation Area can be seen. Bring sturdy shoes, water, lunch, and sunscreen. For any questions regarding the field trip, please contact DeVon Ekenstam at (702) 378-0624.
Gold Lake/Graeagle area (Plumas Co., CA), July 22nd. Paleofossils with Anna Thompson, botany instructor at Feather River College in Quincy. Meet at 8:00 am at the McDonald’s at the Lemmon Valley exit on highway 395, north of Reno. Second meeting place at 9:00 at the park and ride at the intersection of Highways 70 and 89 at Blairsden, near Graeagle, CA. Leader: John Dyer (775) 677-2714(h) or (775) 770-0035(c).
Frazier Falls, July 8th (Plumas Co., CA). Meet at 8:00 am at the McDonald’s at the Lemmon Valley exit on highway 395, north of Reno. Second meeting place at 9:00 am at the park and ride at the intersection of Highways 70 and 89 at Blairsden. Leaders Bill and Nancy Harnach (530) 994-3464 and Fred Peterson 747-2364.
Lincoln County, Nevada, July 1st. Details about this field trip are forthcoming. For any questions regarding the field trip, please contact
June 2006
Peavine Mountain high elevations (Washoe Co.), June 17th. Meet at 8:00 am at the McDonald’s at the Lemmon Valley exit on highway 395, north of Reno. Participants should be prepared for all weather conditions because we have encountered snow in previous years. Be sure to bring a hat and sun screen. Also, wear good walking shoes for negotiating rough ground. Leaders Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567 and Bonnie Larsen (775) 972-0583.
Zion National Park (Washington Co., UT), June 9-10 (Friday-Saturday). Come join our overnight trip to venture into beautiful southwestern Utah. More details will follow regarding botanizing, camping availability and the potluck on Friday night. We will meet Friday evening at City Park in Virgin. For any questions regarding the field trip, please contact DeVon Ekenstam at (702) 378-0624.
Carson City area, June 4th (Sunday!). Explore hills and canyons of the Carson area. In Reno, meet at 8:00 am at the Pink Scolari’s, 8165 South Virginia Street to carpool. In Carson City meet at 8:45 near the southeast corner of Albertson’s North Carson Store. From Reno, access via gas station entrance on west side of Highway 395 just past Glen Eagles Restaurant. From Carson, going north on Highway 395, go west (left) on College Parkway (intersection with traffic lights). Leader Larry Taylor (775) 883-6016.
May 2006
Long Valley east of Hallelujah Junction (Lassen Co., CA), May 27th. First meeting place, 8:00 am, at the McDonald’s at the Lemmon Valley exit on highway 395, north of Reno. Second meeting place will be at the corral at the end of the pavement on Scott Road. Scott Road is 2.2 miles west of Hallelujah Junction on Hwy. 70 and to the north. From the corral we will go another 5 miles N on Scott Road on dirt. The time will be about 8:45. We can leave cars at the corral. People should bring lunch, water, rain gear, insect repellant. Leaders Chris Battis and Gary Monroe (775) 359-4863.
Lee Canyon (Clark Co.), May 20th. Only a quick 40 minute drive from Las Vegas, here's your opportunity to beat the heat while botanizing at the same time! Meet at 8:00 am at the turn-off to Lee Canyon on US Highway 95. Trip leader DeVon Ekenstam will meet everyone, and the group will drive west on State Route 156 (Lee Canyon Rd.) up the canyon making frequent stops to botanize. Please bring lunch, water, a hat and field walking shoes - terrain is easy to moderate. For any questions regarding the field trip, please contact DeVon Ekenstam at (702) 378-0624.
White River Valley (White Pine Co.), May 12th-14th (Friday-Sunday). Meet at Lane's Truck Stop in Preston (White Pine County, Nevada) at 5:00 pm on Friday, May 12th. Lane's is located on Hwy. 318, 7 miles south of the junction of 318 and Hwy. 6. We will plan to eat dinner at the coffee shop and stay either at Lane's Motel (be sure to make reservations in advance (775) 238-5269) or at the Dave Deacon campground at Wayne E. Kirch Wildlife Management Area, approximately 40 miles south of Preston. This is a bare bones campground, although it does have picnic tables, primitive restrooms, and a nearby warm springs for bathing. On Saturday, we will botanize around the Sunnyside area. Please bring items to share for dinner on Saturday night if you are camping. On Sunday morning, we will visit sites in northern White River Valley. Call Tara Forbis (775) 289-7974, Janet Bair (775) 322-4990, ex. 28, or Gary Monroe (775) 359-4863 for details and to reserve a space on this trip.
April 2006
North Valleys/Red Rock area (Washoe Co.), April 29th. High clearance probably desirable. Car pooling desirable. Bring lunch, water, hat. Wear sturdy shoes for walking off trails. Meet 8:30 am in the cul de sac between the Shell Station and Highway 395 on Red Rock Road. Take Highway 395 north from Reno, exit Red Rock Road, and turn right. You will see the station and meeting place west of the road. Leaders John Dyer (775) 677-2714 and Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567.
Muddy River Headwaters (Clark Co.), April 29th. Meet at Glendale Restaurant at 8:00 am . The drive takes about 1 hour from Las Vegas: From Las Vegas, take I-15 north to Exit 90 (Glendale-Moapa exit); at the STOP sign at bottom of Exit ramp, turn right and drive approximately 0.2 mile to restaurant. Trip leader, Bruce Lund, will meet everyone, and the group will drive to the field trip site from there. Please bring lunch, water, a hat and field walking shoes - terrain is easy walking on level ground. Muddy River headwaters offers a great birding area, too, so bring binoculars if you like to watch birds! For any questions concerning the field trip, please contact Bruce Lund, (702) 865-2808. February 2006: Mojave Preserve near Cima Road (Clark Co.), February 25th. Leader Devon Ekenstam (702) 378-0624.
Adopt-a-Wash Weeding Event (Clark Co.), October 8th. Join volunteers on the north bank of the Las Vegas Wash for the "Adopt-a-Wash" weed pull event. We will be working to improve a site intended to be a small, beautiful emergent/riparian zone. The event will last from 9-11 am. All tools will be provided, and there will be a light breakfast snack to give us all a little weed-pulling energy. The site is immediately adjacent to the water. There are a few narrow channels that have cut through it, making careful footing necessary. However, the site itself is not wet, and we will steer clear of the water. If you are interested and would like to join volunteers, please contact Beth Hewitt at (702) 321-5008 or Sonja Kokos at (702) 326-5564.
August 2005
Pacific Crest Trail, Donner Pass - Castle Peak area (northeastern California). Meet at 8:00 am in the McDonald's parking lot at the corner of West McCarran and Mae Ann (Safeway shopping center). This will be an all day hiking trip. We plan on returning to Reno no later than 5:00 pm. Wear sturdy hiking boots and sun-protective clothing; bring lunch, plenty of water, and sunscreen. Leaders Janet Bair (775) 329-9771 and Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567.
Ball Canyon (Washoe Co.), August 13th. A midsummer visit to this area, usually visited earlier by NNPS members should lead to new discoveries. Outing will be on private property. Must enter and leave with group through gates which are kept locked. Wear hat! Meet at Bordertown in the northwest part of the parking lot behind the casino at 9:00 am. To reach Bordertown (this is not Boomtown) take Highway 395 north from Reno to the Bordertown exit. Leader Chris Ross (775) 742-0518, or contact Bonnie Larsen (775) 972-0583.
New Mt. Rose Trail (Washoe Co.), August 6th. Meet at 8:00 am at the Pink Scolari’s parking lot in Southwest Pavilion at 8165 South Virginia St. We will drive to the new trail head at the Mt. Rose highway summit and hike as far as we can along the trail until snow or time prevents us from continuing further. Bring a lunch and plenty of drinking water. We should be back in Reno by 5 pm. Leaders Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567 and Melanie Scott (775) 746-1667.
July 2005
Lakes Basin (Plumas and Sierra cos., CA), July 30th. Plan on a flower-filled day in this beautiful area. Meet at 8:00am the McDonald’s on Lemmon Valley Drive. Taking Highway 395 north from Reno, exit Lemmon Valley. Turn right and make another right into the shopping center. Second meeting place at the park-and-ride on the north side of Highway 70 at the Highway 89 junction at Blairsden, CA. Arrive by 9:00 am. Leaders: John Dyer (775) 677-2714 and Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567.
Carson City area (northern Nevada), July 16th. Explore hills and canyons of the Carson area. In Reno, meet at 8:00 am at the Pink Scolari’s, 8165 South Virginia Street to carpool. In Carson City meet at 8:45 near the southeast corner of Albertson’s North Carson Store. From Reno, access via gas station entrance on West side of Highway 395 just past Glen Eagles Restaurant. From Carson, going north on Highway 395, go west (left) on College Parkway (intersection with traffic lights). Leader Larry Taylor (775) 883-6016.
Plumas-Eureka State Park, Jamison Mine to Grass Lake (Plumas Co., CA), July 9th. Group will decide whether to hike to a small lake or explore flatter areas. Wear sturdy shoes. Meet in the cul-de-sac between the Shell Station and the freeway off Red Rock Road for an 8:15 am departure. Traveling north on Highway 395 from Reno, exit Red Rock Road and turn right. You will see the Shell station across the road. Second meeting place at the park-and-ride on the north side of Highway 70 at the Highway 89 junction at Blairsden, CA. Depart the park-and-ride 9:15 am. Leaders Bill and Nancy Harnach (530) 994-3464, Reno contact: John Dyer (775) 677-2714.
June 2005
Sweetwater Mountains/Lobdell Lake (Mono Co., CA), June 25th. Meet at 8:00 am at the Pink Scolari's at 8165 S. Virginia St., second meeting place, at 8:45 am, at J.C. Penney's parking lot in Carson City. The walks should be short, easy, and non-strenuous (no more than 1/4 mile each). Bring lunch, plenty of fluids, sun screen, and shoes that can withstand walking in wet, somewhat muddy meadows. 4-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles are preferable, but not required. We will have copies of a Sweetwater Mountains plant checklist. Leaders John Reid (760) 932-9861(h) or (530) 581-6247(w) and Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567.
Big Den (Desatoya Mountains, Churchill Co.), June 10th-12th (Friday-Sunday). Vigorous hike Sat. morning up Big Den's striking, deep rock-gorge; stony trail, several stream crossings, wear long pants (some nettles). Strong hike up Willow Creek Sun. morning. Primitive camping, bring shovel, stove, table(?), water or microfilter; each person arranges own food. Check details with leaders Oyvind Frock (775) 826-8779 or Fred Peterson (775) 747-2364. High-clearance vehicle best, no camp trailers or motor homes. Meet at site Friday afternoon/evening. Travel directions from center of Fallon, NV, starting at stoplight on US Hwy 50 where US Hwy 95 turns south: 0.0 mi stoplight, go east on Hwy 50 from where Hwy 95 turns south; 47.1 Middlegate, junction with NV Hwy 361 to S, continue E on Hwy 50; 50.3 Junction, turn onto NV Hwy 722 to E toward Eastgate/Ione; 55.3 bridge at Eastgate (abandoned Hwy Maintenance Sta. & store, ranch house), continue E; 56.6 turn left on dirt road at "Wildlife Viewing" sign. 57.3 stay to left on dirt road; 59.7 "Big Den's Creek" sign and cattle guard, stay ahead; 60.2 stay right (ahead) on dirt road; 61.3 pass "Wilderness Study Area" sign and cattle guard; 61.5 Big Den "Campground"! Grab a spot. Note trailhead sign and visitors' book.
May 2005
Sierra Valley area (Plumas/Sierra Co., CA), May 30th (Monday). Not an "official" NNPS walk. Bill and Nancy Harnach invite you to go along with friends and neighbors on an outing they’ve been leading for the last several years. Meet under the bridge on A-23, left side, as you come off of Highway 70 at the Calpine turnoff. This is approximately 1 mile west of Beckwourth, CA. Meet there at 10:30 a.m. or meet Gary Monroe at the Lemmon Drive McDonald’s (see May 21) at 9:30 a.m. to arrange carpooling. Leaders: Gary Monroe: (775) 359-4863 and Bill and Nancy Harnach (530) 994-3464
Unionville - Star City Mining District (Humboldt Range, Pershing Co.), May 28th-30th (Saturday-Monday). This is a camping trip. Will hike 1-2 miles each day identifying plants. Because of limited camping area, please call leaders Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567 or John Dyer (775) 677-2714 if you plan on going.
Sierra Valley (Marble Hot Springs Road, Plumas/Sierra Co., CA), May 21st. Meet at 8:00 am. at the McDonald’s on Lemmon Drive, reached by going north from Reno on Highway 395, or meet at 8:45 at the rest stop west of Beckwourth, California on Highway 70. We will also visit lands recently purchased by the Feather River Land Conservancy and botanize the fringes of the marshlands that run through the valley. No restrictions on cars and only about 3 miles of maintained dirt road. All walking on level ground. Leaders: Bill and Nancy Harnach, (530) 994-3464, Reno contact: Gary Monroe, (775) 359-4863.
Moapa (Clark Co.), May 21st. Botanizing in the Muddy River Headwaters. We'll explore a diversity of very un-desert habitats including marshes, flooded pastures, mesquite bogs, cottonwood groves, and riparian shrub lands in one of southern Nevada's unique flood plains. Wear shoes you wouldn't mind getting muddy or wet. Bring snacks, liquid, and a lunch. Presses are welcome. Meet at 7:00 am in Moapa at Calamity's Restaurant which takes about one hour to get to from Las Vegas. Take I-15 north to Exit 90 (Glendale/Moapa). Go straight at the stop sign at the bottom of the off ramp and Calamity's is ahead on the left. Contact Sonja Kokos for info. Ash Meadows Wildlife Refuge (Nye Co.), May 14th. Ash Meadows is home to more than 24 endemic plant and animal species. The first part of the trip will focus on the endemics. Expect to spend approximately an hour or so exploring the refuge looking for rare plant species. The second part of the trip will focus on restoration efforts on the refuge, specifically the Longstreet Fire Site. Anna Schrenk will join us and bring us up to speed on current restoration activities. In addition to checking on the recovery of the burn site we will be collecting plant material for future restoration needs. Tools will be supplied for those interested in helping collect plant material. Meet at refuge headquarters at 10:00 a.m. (earlier if you would like to get some birding in prior to the field trip). Be sure to bring sturdy shoes, sun protection, plenty of water and a snack. If you have any questions or plan on attending, contact Beth T. Hewitt by Friday May 13th (702) 321-5008 or Elizabeth_Hewitt [at] ccsn [dot] nevada [dot] edu).
Bass Flat area south of Fallon (Churchill Co.), May 7th. Easy walking. Bring mosquito repellent, hat, and rain gear as needed. Meet at the southwest side of the Quality Inn on Nugget Avenue for an 8:00 a.m. departure. Second meeting place at McDonald’s on Highway 50 in Fallon, for a 9:30 departure. Leaders Gary Monroe (775) 359-4863 and Melanie Scott (775) 746-1667.
Lower Las Vegas Wash (above Lake Las Vegas, Clark Co.), May 7th. Historically, the Las Vegas Wash was an ephemeral desert channel but since the 1950s has been transformed into a perennial riparian landscape. Because a significant riparian seed source was not available as the Las Vegas Wash transformed into a "river," much of the area is "behind the curve." In an attempt to re-create native riparian conditions found along other southwestern drainage's along the Las Vegas Wash, an intensive revegetation program is currently underway. Several sites along the Las Vegas Wash and a review of the evolution of the system will be provided. Leader Seth Shanahan. Contact Sonja Kokos (702) 326-5564 for info.
April 2005
North Valleys/Red Rock area (Washoe Co.), April 30th. High clearance vehicles probably desirable. Carpooling desirable. Wear sturdy shoes for walking off trails. Meet 8:30 a.m. in the cul-de-sac between the Shell Station and Highway 395 on Red Rock Road. Take highway 395 north from Reno, exit Red Rock Road and turn right. You will see the station and meeting place across the road. Leaders John Dyer (775) 677-2714 and Bonnie Larsen (775) 972-0583.
Ball Canyon (Washoe Co.), April 23rd. Bad weather back-up date May 14. Entry is through gates that must be locked behind us. Must go in and out with group. Carpooling required. Dirt roads. Traveling north of Reno on Highway 395, take the Bordertown exit (almost at the California border). Turn left and cross over the freeway. Turn right to Bordertown. Meet in the northwest part of the parking lot behind Bordertown casino at 9:00 a.m. Leaders Fred Peterson (775) 747-2364 and Chris Ross (775) 861-6571 (w), (775) 742-0518.
Sloan Canyon (Clark Co.), April 23rd. This is a beautiful opportunity to see our newest Conservation Area with an expert leader. Meet at 9:00 am at the Arco station on Las Vegas Blvd. at St. Rose Parkway (there's a Jack-in- the-Box attached to that gas station). From there we will carpool to the Sloan Canyon Petroglyph site. A 4-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended, more for the rutted dirt roads then anything. It will take approximately 20 minutes from the Arco station to the parking area for the Petroglyph Canyon trail. The total hike up and back should be approximately 2.5 miles. Participants will need to be able to scramble up a 10 foot pour-off and depending on folks abilities the way back may be through the desert over a fairly rough trail. We'll see some interesting geology and flowering plants, as well as the cultural sites. This should take until about noon. Depending on the group's interest and ambitions we can head to either Hidden Valley on the west side of the Conservation Area or the northeast area along the power line road. The flowers were nice a couple of weeks ago in the northeast area. Both of these areas will require 4x4 high ground clearance vehicles. A "quick trip" to these areas should take 2-3 hours minimum Bring plenty of water, food (lunch), sunblock, and a hat. Leader Kathy August (BLM), RSVP and information Sonja Kokos (702) 326-5564, sonjakokos [at] yahoo [dot] com.
Hot Springs Mountains vicinity (Churchill Co.), April 16th. Will hike an easy mile or less. Bring mosquito repellent, and rain gear and warm clothes as needed. Meet at the southwest side of the Quality Inn on Nugget Avenue (formerly McCarran House) for an 8:00 a.m. departure. Second meeting place at the Nightingale Exit on I-80 East for a 9:00 a.m. departure. Leaders Gary Monroe (775) 359-4863 and Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567.
Death Valley National Park (Inyo Co., CA), April 9th. Death Valley wildflower displays are reputed to be the best in 50 years! The field trip will begin at 9:00 am at Hell's Gate (2-2.5 hours from Las Vegas area: take US 95 North to Beatty, NV, turn left (west) onto Hwy 374, proceed west to Hell's Gate kiosk parking area on left side of the road). The wildflowers should be quite showy in this area then and will provide for an excellent meeting area. If things are a bit past flower here we can always head higher in elevation towards Daylight Pass (4316 ft). From here we will head to Titus Canyon. The road through Titus Canyon is closed but the western access to the mouth of the canyon is still open. (For latecomers needing to meet at Titus Canyon: follow Hwy 374 west to Hwy 190, turn right (north) on 190, turn right (north) on Scotty's Castle Rd., proceed ~15 miles to Titus Canyon Rd. [on right]).We will spend the majority of the day hiking up the canyon and looking at the wildflowers along the way. The hike up the canyon is only a slight incline and we will probably hike 3-4 miles total. In Titus Canyon there are usually a wide variety of plant species to enjoy along the way in addition to narrow slot canyons, unique geologic mosaic formations and potentially Bighorn Sheep sightings. We will stop for lunch along the way and head back to the cars by sundown. Don't forget to bring plenty of water, a lunch and sunscreen. The temperature will most likely be in the 80's but easily could be anywhere from 40-90°, so bring appropriate clothing for both extremes. For those of that are interested in staying over on Saturday night, most campgrounds fill up by mid day, however there is usually plenty of tent or RV (without hookup) sites at Stovepipe Wells (closest to Titus Canyon) and Sunset (Furnace Creek area). You can get more information on campgrounds daily at http://www.nps.gov/deva/Morning.pdf. Leader Jeff Kane, USGS, contact for more information Sonja Kokos 702-326-5564 or via email.
March 2005
Gold Butte (Clark Co.), March 5th. The Field Trip will convene at the Junction of the Virgin River and the Riverside Road (170), and the New Gold Butte Road (which is a Backcountry Byway), at 9:00am. Take Highway I-15 north from Las Vegas toward Mesquite, but you will get off the highway before Mesquite. From the Apex Exit outside of N. Las Vegas (Exit 58) it is 53 miles to Exit 112. We recommend you fill up your fuel tank, get snacks and use the restroom at Glendale Exits 90 and 91. Exit Hwy I-15 at Exit 112. Exit 112 is at the base of Mormon Mesa on the east side, and go right. From Exit 112 it is approximately 3 miles to the Virgin River. Cross the bridge and pull out at a wide spot at the junction of the roads. There is a sign there that says “Bundy’s Melons”. Leaders Todd Esque and Trent Draper. Contact Sonja Kokos (702) 326-5564, sonjakokos [at] yahoo [dot] com, for information.
Osgood Swamp, August 7th. We will be exploring an old lake formed by a morainal dam. Sundew and other wetland plants will be major attractions on this trip. A US Forest Service regional botanist will be along to tell us about the area and help identify plants. Will hike one to two miles. Bring waterproof footwear, lunch and water. Two wheel drive vehicle fine. Plan to depart from the “Pink” Scolari’s at 8165 South Virginia Street at 8:00 a.m. or from J.C. Penny’s parking lot in Carson City at 8:40 a.m. We will be proceeding south on 395, and taking U.S. 50 West to South Lake Tahoe and Myers, CA. Leaders: Paul Mungan, 747-4567 and Janet Bair 329-1974.
July 2004
Ash Meadows, July 31st. Christy Baldino, US Fish and Wildlife Service, will lead a trip to see some later blooming plants at the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. First meeting spot at 7:00 a.m. at the Albertson's grocery store at the southwest corner of Hwy 95 and Craig Road in Las Vegas. Second meeting spot at 9:00 a.m. at the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters building. Low clearance vehicles OK, but some roads are dirt/gravel. Bring hat, sunscreen, plenty of water and lunch. To sign up or request more information, please contact Sue Wainscott, (702) 737-8744 ext. 12, eriogonum [at] earthlink [dot] net
Galena Creek headwaters, July 24th. We will be checking out the mountain flowers at an area along the Mt. Rose Highway approximately one half mile above the Mount Rose Ski Area. Possibly will continue to a second location near Tahoe Meadows. Plan to depart at 8:30 a.m. from the “Pink” Scolari’s at 8165 S. Virginia Street, or at 9:15 a.m from the Mt Rose Ski area parking lot near the Mt. Rose Highway. Leaders: Fred Peterson 747-2364; Ed Kleiner 747-3612.
Steens Mountain in Eastern Oregon, July 16th-19th (Friday-Monday). This is an opportunity to explore and check out the flora on fascinating Steens Mountain. The mountain, rising 9,773 feet above sea level, was formed as a result of geological forces thrusting and tilting a large block of basaltic rock upward about 20 million years ago. This block was extensively glaciated during the Ice Age, resulting in the deep gorges and lake-filled depressions that you can see on the mountain today. Hiking distances will vary, and hikes will be of moderate difficulty. Bring what you need to camp at beautiful Page Springs Campground which has fire pits, water, and pit toilets. Departures will be independent with trip officially beginning Friday July 16. Take I-80 east to Winnemucca. Go north on US95 through Fields, Oregon to Frenchglen, Oregon and Page Springs campground. Leader: Paul Mungan, 747-4567. Co-leader: Fred Peterson 747-2364.
Lakes Basin area near Graeagle, CA, July 10th. Will be hiking from Grass Lake to Long Lake or Gray Eagle Lodge, a moderately difficult hike of approximately 3 miles. This is a lovely area where it is possible to see many plants in a variety of habitats. Wear good walking shoes and bring lunch and water. Paved roads. Plan to depart at 8:00 a.m. from the McDonald’s at the Lemmon Valley exit on Highway 395 north of Reno, or at 9:00 a.m. from the rest stop west of Beckwourth, California. Leaders: Paul Mungan, 747-45677; Fred Peterson 747-2364.
June 2004
Ball Canyon, June 26th. PREFERRED MEETING PLACE: 9:00 a.m. in the parking lot behind Bordertown on Highway 395 for a field trip in Ball Canyon. Take the Bordertown exit off Highway 395 north of Reno, turning left to cross the freeway and then right to Bordertown. Participants will be viewing the native flora on private property west of Bordertown, so gates are involved and it's important to be on time and go in and out with the group. Bring lunch and water. Leader Chris Ross 742-0518. Information Bonnie Larsen 972-0583. (NOTE: a different meeting time and place was accidentally announced for this trip in the printed Newsletter. Any participants who come, by 8:30 a.m., to the McDonalds parking lot at the Lemmon Valley exit off Highway 395 north of Reno will be met and led to the preferred meeting place above.)
Burton Creek, June 19th. Primary stop will be at the meadow at the Placer County Sheriff's office. Other stops may include Burton Creek, Lake Forest Meadow, and Snow Creek. Participants will hike an easy ½ to one mile. Bring lunch, hat, sunscreen and footwear that can take some water. No vehicle restrictions. Meet at McDonald’s at Mae Anne and North McCarran at 8:00 a.m. Second meeting place at McDonald’s at Tahoe City, 9:30 a.m. Field trip will commence at the Placer County sheriff’s office about two miles east of Tahoe City. Leader: John Dyer, (775) 677-2714. Co-Leader: John Reid, (760) 932-9861 or (530) 581-6247.
Kyburz Flat, June 12th. Plan to visit moist areas in this Sierra location. Not much walking. Bring lunch, water, mosquito repellent, shoes for wet areas. Will travel on gravel road. No vehicle restrictions. Plan to depart Reno at 8:00 a.m. from near the McDonalds at MaeAnne and N. McCarran or at 8:45 from near the forest service station on CA State Route 89. Area to be visited is approximately 16.5 miles north of I-80 near the rest area at the junction of Hwy. 89 and Fiberboard Road. Leaders: Bill and Nancy Harnach (530) 994-3464, Gary Monroe, 359-4863.
May 2004
Churchill Narrows, May 15th. Here is an opportunity to look for the rare Eriogonum diatomaceum as well as other Eriogonums and other plants. An easy one mile walk is necessary to reach the area. Bring food, water, mosquito repellent and hiking shoes. Be prepared for spring weather of any type. High clearance vehicle necessary. Meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Quality Inn on Nugget Avenue, Sparks. Second meeting place will be at the Fort Churchill turnoff from ALT 95 at 9:00 a.m. Leader, Jim Morefield, 684-2902. Co-leader Gary Monroe 359-4863.
Peavine's fire-altered landscape, May 8th. Joanne Baggs with the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and Melanie Scott will lead a field trip to visit areas reseeded following last year's fires. Meet at 9:00 am in the McDonald's parking lot at the Lemmon Valley exit off Highway 395. High clearance vehicles strongly recommended. Bring lunch, water, sturdy walking shoes, and sunscreen. Contact co-leaders Joanne Baggs 355-5341 or Melanie Scott 746-1667.
April 2004
Mojave Desert washes, April 17th. Jeri Krueger will lead a trip to view Mojave Desert wash communities in the Piute and Eldorado Valleys, south of Boulder City. The trip will focus on catclaw and mesquite habitats and the relationship between these desert trees, parasitic mistletoe and Phainopepla birds. Binoculars are recommended. Bring lunch, water, hat, boots and sunscreen. We will return to Las Vegas at 2:00 pm. Meeting place to be determined, contact Sue Wainscott (see above).
Sand Mountain back side, April 17th. This easy one mile hike will have participants looking for plants on the sand sheet in Fairview Valley that was blown in from Sand Mountain. Time and energy permitting, the group may continue to the Fairview Peak earthquake fault scarp. Meet at 8:00 a.m. in the west parking lot of the Quality Inn at 55 E. Nugget Avenue. From I-80 in Sparks, exit McCarran, turn south and then turn right onto Nugget. Second meeting place will be at 9:00 a.m. in McDonald's parking lot along Highway 50 on the west side of Fallon. Be sure to bring lunch and water. Four-wheel drive vehicles are preferable because of the sand, but two-wheel drive O.K. if careful. Car pooling possible as always. Leader: Fred Peterson, 747-2364. Co-leader: Gary Monroe 359-4863.
Desert National Wildlife Refuge, April 10th. Janet Bair, David Charlet and Sue Wainscott will lead a field trip to the Desert National Wildlife Refuge, north of Las Vegas. We will be breaking in our copies of the latest Mentzelia, A Flora of the Desert National Wildlife Refuge, Nevada, so please plan to bring your copy! A limited number of Mentzelia (#7) will be available for sale before the field trip for $15.00. Meet at 8:00 am at the Albertson's near Craig Road and Highway 95. We will then carpool to meet at our second meeting place at 8:45 am at the Refuge's Corn Creek Station. Please note that parking is limited at the Corn Creek Station. The roads are not paved within the refuge, 4-wheel drive recommended. Bring lunch, plenty of water, hat, boots, sunscreen and your copy of Mentzelia #7! We will return to Las Vegas in the afternoon. Contact Sue Wainscott (see above). Muddy River, April 3rd. Ann Schreiber will lead a field trip along the Muddy River to see the effects of recent riparian restoration efforts by the Muddy River Regional Environmental Impact Alleviation Committee. Participants can expect to see Mojave Desert scrubland communities and Mojave Desert riparian communities along this warm-spring-fed river system. We will meet at 7:30 am at The Nature Conservancy's Southern Nevada Office, 3380 West Sahara, Las Vegas and carpool to the Muddy River, approximately 1.5 hours north of Las Vegas, near Moapa. Bring lunch, water, hat, boots and sunscreen. We will return to Las Vegas at 2:00 pm. Contact Sue Wainscott, (702) 737-8744 ext. 12, eriogonum [at] earthlink [dot] net, to sign up and/or request more information.
Carson Pass, August 16th. Be prepared to depart at 8:00 a.m. from the parking lot of the the pink Scolari's, Southwest Pavilion, 8165 South Virginia Street. Second meeting place at Staples parking lot on the northeast corner of Highway 395 and Jacks Valley Road in Carson City, departing 8:40 a.m. Telephone Gary Monroe to reserve your place as number of participants is limited. Bring lunch, water, insect repellent. Wear good walking or hiking shoes for approximately four miles of walking. Leader Gary Monroe.
July 2003
Madora Lake, July 19th. Check out summer bloom in Lakes Basin area. Bring lunch, water, mosquito repellant. First meeting place: Plan to depart at 8:00 a.m. from near the MacDonald’s at the Lemmon Valley exit on Hwy. 395 north of Reno. Second meeting place: Depart 9:00 am from the rest area on Highway 70 west of Beckwourth, CA. Leader Gary Monroe.
Santa Rosa Mountains, July 11-13th. This is a three day, two night camping trip to north of Winnemucca. Contact Paul Mungan if you are interested. Lower Lola Montez Lake near Soda Springs, CA, July 5th. Hike one moderately easy mile to Lola Montez Lake and return. Access limited to 5 high clearance vehicles. Area to be visited behind locked gate. Participants may not leave field trip early. Consensus on end time of trip. Remember lunch, water, insect repellant, sun screen. First meeting at 8:00 a.m. at the MacDonald’s at West McCarran and MaeAnne. Second meeting at 9:00a.m. at the Donner Summit rest area on I-80 west of Truckee, CA. Leaders Marsha Ross and Paul Mungan.
June 2003
Ash Meadows, June 22nd. Gina Glenne will lead us on a trip to see some later blooming Ash Meadows plants. First meeting spot at 7:00 a.m. at the Fish and Wildlife Service Office in Las Vegas. Second meeting spot at 8:45 a.m. at the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters building. Low clearance vehicles OK, but dirt/gravel roads. Bring hat, sunscreen, water and lunch. For information contact Sue Wainscott.
Benton Range, June 20-22. Three day, two night camping trip with the Bristlecone Chapter of CNPS. High clearance vehicle necessary. Will be hiking 1-5 miles per day in easy to moderately difficult terrain. Bring what you need to camp - food, water. Non-camping options include motels in Lee Vining or the Benton Hot Springs B & B. Meet in the parking lot between the pink Scolari’s and Heidi’s, 8165 South Virginia St., Reno for 10:00 a.m. departure. Meet for optional breakfast at 8:30 a.m. Second meeting place Mono Lake Visitor’s Center just north of Lee Vining, CA. Lunch stop 12:00-1:00 p.m. Campsite to be determined. Contact John Dyer if you are interested.
Ball's Canyon, June 14th. (This is a reschedule for the April 26th trip that was cancelled due to snow, and this replaces the Lower Prey Meadows trip listed for this date in the May newsletter.) Chris Ross will be taking us on this hike on private property. Locked gates make it necessary to go in and out together. Meet at 8:00 a.m. near the McDonald’s at the Lemon Valley exit off Highway 395 north of Reno. Second meeting place, 8:30 in the Bordertown back parking lot. Take the Bordertown exit off 395, turning left and then right. Remember that Bordertown is NOT BOOMTOWN. Leaders: Fred Peterson and Paul Mungan.
Diamond Range, June 7th. Check out spring bloom in the mountains that parallel the state line north of Reno. Tentatively plan to go to the Snow Lake area and loop around to Frenchman Lake, but this could change depending on flower displays. High clearance vehicles recommended as we expect to be mainly off paved roads. First meeting place, 8:15 in the cul-de-sac by the Texaco Station on Red Rock Road just north of highway 395 north of Reno. Turn north onto Red Rock Road and then left into the cul-de-sac. Second meeting place, 9:00 a.m. at the Chilcoot, CA Frosty on the corner of Highway 70 and Frenchman Lake Road. Leaders John Dyer, Bonnie Larsen, and Bill and Nancy Harnach.
May 2003
Coppins Meadow and Weber Lake, May 31st. First meeting place at McDonald’s at Mae Anne and McCarran. Depart 8:00 a.m. Second meeting place at the rest stop at the Little Truckee Summit, which is at the intersection of Highway 89 and Fiberboard Road (aka Jackson Meadows Reservoir Rd. and Henness Pass Rd.). Depart there at 9:00 a.m. Bring clothing for mild to cold weather, shoes to get wet, mosquito repellent, and lunch. Leaders John Dyer and Paul Mungan. Warm Springs Valley/ Pah Rah Range, May 24th. We will be hiking an easy 1-2 miles. Bring lunch and water. Low clearance vehicle O.K., but dirt roads. Depart at 8:30 a.m. from the Quality Inn (formerly McCarran House) at 55 E. Nugget Ave. in Sparks, S side of I-80 between Pyramid Way and McCarran Ave. Leaders John Dyer and Gary Monroe.
Sierra Spring Sojourn, May 16th. An event of the Bristlecone Chapter of CNPS. For information contact John Dyer.
Sand Mountain/Fairview Valley, May 10th. First meeting place at 8:00 a.m. at the Quality Inn (formerly McCarran House) at 55 E. Nugget Ave in Sparks, S side of I-80 between Pyramid Way and McCarran Ave. Second meeting place at 9:00 a.m. at McDonalds, W side of Fallon along Hwy. 50. Bring mosquito dope, water, lunch. Leaders: Gary Monroe and Fred Peterson.
April 2003
Ball’s Canyon, April 26th. CANCELED due to snow (see June 14th). Dry Winnemucca Lake, April 12th. Meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Quality Inn (formerly McCarran House) at 55 E. Nugget Ave. in Sparks, S side of I-80 between Pyramid Way and McCarran Ave. Bring lunch, water. This is an optimist's trip, so plan for snow or rain or dust! Leaders: Fred Peterson and Paul Mungan.
March 2003
Table Mountain north of Oroville, California, March 26-28th. Overnight camping in low Sierras (2800’) on private property. Arrive Wednesday, visit Table Mountain and possibly Oroville Dam on Thursday, returning Friday. Rain in northeastern California may cancel the trip. For details, call Bonnie Larsen.
Grass Lake, August 17th. Meet at 8:00 am at the pink Scolari's Market at 8165 S Virginia St. in the Southwest Pavilion (south end of parking lot). Participants will get their feet, and perhaps more, wet so dress appropriately. Trip size is limited - please call the leaders to ensure your spot. Leaders Janet Bair and Lori Allessio. Rose Knob Peak, August 8th (Thursday). Meet at 8 a.m. near the pink Scolari's in the Southwest Pavilion at 8165 South Virginia Street. Second meeting place at 9 a.m. at the west side of Tahoe Meadows near the start of the road to Incline Lake. This will be a 3+ mile hike with an elevation gain of 1,500 ft. Bring water, lunch, bug spray, and sunscreen. Leaders Arnold Tiehm and Steve Matson.
White Mountains, August 2nd-5th (Friday-Monday). This weekend camping trip will be to the White Mountains east of Big Pine, CA. Camping will be in a group camp. The cost of the group campground ($49) will be divided among participants. This is a dry camp, so participants must bring the water that they will need. Two-wheel-drive vehicles O.K. for campground. Four-wheel-drive desirable for one plant site. Check with leaders to sign up. Leaders Paul Mungan and Fred Peterson.
July 2002
Blue Lake, July 20th-21st (Saturday-Sunday) (CNPS Modoc Chapter). Come camp in the southern Warner Mountains. On Saturday we’ll go bogging and look for sundews, shore sedge, bladderworts, and other rare fen plants; bring a canoe or raft. On Sunday, we’ll do a tour of last year’s large wildfire and see what wildflowers have come up. We’ll look for the rare Lupinus latifolius var. barbatus. Meet at the BLM Office on Highway 299 in Alturas at 10:00 Saturday for the bog walk/canoe, or meet us at the Blue Lake Campground 10:00 on Sunday for the burn tour. Leader Mike Dolan.
Mt. Lola II, July 20th. First meeting place at 8:00 a.m. from the MacDonald’s at West McCarran and MaeAnne. Second Meeting Place: Traveling west from Reno on I-80, exit California highway 89 northbound and look for the group. Departure at 9:00 a.m. It is 16.5 miles north on highway 89 to the parking area at Fibreboard Road. Hike to the top of Mt. Lola, 9,168 feet, checking out plants along the way. This moderately difficult hike has a 1200 foot elevation gain. High clearance vehicle required as is an axe, shovel, and a gallon of water per car. Bring lunch, water, and rain gear. Leader Gary Monroe. Co-leader Paul Mungan.
Doyle Grade, July 13th. First meeting place, 8:15 a.m. in the cul-de-sac by the Texaco Station on Red Rock Road. Take highway 395 north from Reno and exit at Red Rock Road. Turn right onto Red Rock and then left into the cul-de-sac which is between the Texaco and the freeway. Second meeting place, 9:00 a.m. at highway 395 and Doyle Grade in Doyle. Flower viewing from Doyle to the top of the adjacent Sierras, featuring a high wet meadow and possibly a stop at a quarry of shale with dendrites. High clearance vehicles necessary. Participants will be walking an easy ½ to one mile, and should bring lunch, water, and insect repellent. Leader John Dyer and co-leader Bonnie Larsen.
Dismal Swamp, July 13th (CNPS Modoc Chapter). Despite the name, this is a great place in the central Warner Mountains. We’ll see bog birch, elephant heads, and other unusual plants. High clearance vehicles required. Meet at 10:00 at the BLM Office on Highway 299 in Alturas, or at 11:00 at Dismal Swamp. Leader Allison Sanger.
Hart Mountain/Sheldon Antelope Preserve, Oregon, July 4th-7th (Thursday-Sunday) (CNPS Modoc Chapter). This camping trip in the southern Oregon part of the Modoc Plateau promises hot springs, great vistas, and new plants to explore. Bring complete camping gear and supplies, including water, and a full tank of gas. Meet at the BLM Office on Highway 299 in Alturas at 10:00 on July 4th. Leader Ann Francis.
June 2002
Thompson Peak, June 29th (CNPS Modoc Chapter). Visit this peak that marks the southeastern edge of the Cascade Range and overlooks the Honey Lake Valley. We’ll be looking for unusual rocky ridge plants, like perhaps Erigeron compactus that was collected by Stebbins there in 1937. Meet at the Park and Ride at the junction of Highway 395 and Janesville Grade at 10:00. Leader Gary Schoolcraft.
Peavine, June 15th. Meet at 8:00 a.m. near the McDonald’s at the Lemmon Valley exit on highway 395 north of Reno. Turn right on Lemmon Valley Drive and right into the shopping center. All day trip planned to visit mid-to-upper reaches of Peavine Mountain in the northern and northwestern portions. Bring lunch, plenty of water, sunscreen, hat, etc. Please wear sturdy walking shoes or boots to handle a variety of terrain. Activity level: Plan on some walking, over uneven surfaces, and some steep terrain. Distances covered will depend on whether certain sites we decide to visit are accessible by vehicle. Vehicular requirements: High clearance vehicles are required as of this writing; 4-wheel drive may be necessary, however this won’t be determined until late May. Please contact the leaders at that time for more travel information. NOTE: All vehicles will need to carry an axe, shovel, and a gallon of water. Leaders Melanie Scott, John Dyer, and Sharon Lancaster.
Fredonyer Peak, June 15th (CNPS Modoc Chapter). This driving tour with short walks will take us from a lower elevation area that burned 3 years ago and is now full of the rare Iliamna bakeri and other fire-following wildflowers, up in elevation to several different sagebrush habitats and great views of Eagle Lake. We’ll be sure to hit the flowering peak right somewhere up the mountain! 2-wheel drive OK, but high clearance recommended. Meet at the BLM Eagle Lake Field Office on Riverside Drive in Susanville at 10:00. Leader Beth Corbin.
Truckee River Project, June 8th. Nick Lutz of the Nature Conservancy is leading a tour of this project which was the subject of his talk at the February meeting. Meet at 8:00 a.m. in the parking lot of the Department of Environmental and Resource Sciences building at 1000 Valley Road. The outing will take approximately three hours and requires some walking on uneven ground. Carpooling is required. Six or less vehicles desired. Bring water, sunscreen, hiking boots, snacks. Leader Nick Lutz.
Papoose Meadows, June 8th (CNPS Modoc Chapter). Visit a spectacular wet meadow full of blue-flowered camas, delphiniums, buttercups, and other assorted wildflowers and birds. This meadow also has an interesting historic and pre-historic value to the local Native Americans. Meet at the Lassen National Forest’s Eagle Lake Ranger Station on Highway 36 at 10:00 am. Wear shoes suitable for wet ground. Leader Kim Earll. Sierra Valley, June 1st. Meet at 8:00 a.m. near the MacDonald’s at the Lemmon Valley exit on highway 395 north of Reno. Turn right on Lemmon Valley Drive and right into the shopping center. Second meeting place: 8:30 a.m. in Vinton, California, in a pullout area just beyond Frank’s Vinton Garage, on Highway 70. Frank’s Garage is at the junction of Highways 49 and 70, on the south side of 70, about 2 miles west of the Wiggins Trading Post and Frenchman Lake Road. All day trip to explore the Smithneck Creek area above Sierra Brooks subdivision in Loyalton, as well as other stops depending on moisture conditions. Bring lunch, plenty of water, sunscreen, hat, etc. Wear sturdy walking shoes. Activity level: Once at the site(s) expect some walking, but not long distances. Moderately easy. Vehicular requirements: High clearance vehicles are desirable, but not required. Standard vehicle should do ok. Leaders Bill & Nancy Harnach and Melanie Scott.
May 2002
Steamboat/Geiger Grade, May 18th. Meet at 8:00 a.m. near the pink Scolari’s in the Southwest Pavilion at 8165 South Virginia Street. Leaders Janet Bair and Jody Sawasaki.
Hot Springs Mountains, May 11th. First meeting place, 8:00 a.m. in the northwest parking lot of McCarran House at 55 E. Nugget Ave., east of John Ascuaga’s Nugget and west of McCarran Blvd. Second meeting place at Nightingale Springs turn-off on I-80 between Fernley and Lovelock, near the garlic drying plant about 9:00 a.m. Leaders Gary Monroe and Paul Mungan.
Weed walk, May 5th (Sunday). Please meet at 9:00 am in the parking lot of the UNR Department of Environmental and Resource Sciences building at 1000 Valley Road. The walk is expected to end around noon. Leader: Dawn Rafferty.
Ash Meadows, May 3rd-6th (Friday-Monday). Camping will be at Crater Flats south of Beatty, NV. Participants will be meeting with Gina Glenne, USFW botanist at Ash Meadows for a tour of Ash Meadows. Sunday there will be botanizing near the campsite at Crater Flat. A visit to nearby Death Valley is planned on the way home Monday. We will be hiking short distances from the vehicles. Four-wheel drive vehicles preferred because of sand and rough roads near campsite. Bring the equipment you need to camp, food, and plenty of water. Meeting place to be determined. Leader: Paul Mungan. Co-leader Fred Peterson.
April 2002
Mossing in the Carson Range, April 6th (rain or shine). Please meet at 9:00 am in the parking lot of the UNR Department of Environmental and Resource Sciences building at 1000 Valley Road. We will travel to the east base of the Carson Range and walk 1-2 miles up a canyon with running water. We will learn to recognize different moss species and their habitats, and will have hands-on demonstrations of how to document Nevada's little-known moss flora with collections. The trip is anticipated to take about half the day. Leader: Jim Shevock, co-leader (contact for information) Jim Morefield.
March 2002
Lichens near Pyramid Lake, March 7th (alternate rain-out day April 13th). Meet at 9:00 am in the parking lot of the Nevada Agricultural Experiment Station, 1000 Valley Road. The trip is anticipated to take most of the day. If doubtful about whether the trip will go on the morning of March 9th, call the trip Leader, Eric Peterson of the Nevada Natural Heritage Program.
