Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument
November 2012 Calendar of Events
For more information go to www.DesertMountains.org or call (760) 862-9984
All events are FREE and take place at the National Monument Visitor Center, unless fees or locations are
otherwise noted, 51-500 Hwy 74, 4 miles south of Hwy 111, in Palm Desert, CA
Thursday/Saturday Hikes at the Visitor Center
Thursday/Saturday: see below for trail dates; 9 – 11:30 am
Join an interpretive guide for a FREE guided hike from the National
Monument Visitor Center. Until December 31st the area is open to
explore Dead Indian Canyon and Carrizo Canyon, home to the
endangered Peninsular Bighorn sheep. Bring plenty of water and
wear appropriate footwear.
Carrizo Canyon: ~3 miles, easy to moderate: Nov 1, 10, 15 & 24
Dead Indian Canyon: ~2.5 miles, easy: November 3, 8, 7 & 29
Coachella Valley Water District Imperial Dam Bus Tour
Thursday, November 1; 6:30 am – 6 pm
Join a fascinating and educational 11 hour luxury tour and learn
about the history and importance of water in the Coachella Valley.
Fee: $45; continental breakfast, lunch, snacks and drinks!
Location: Coachella Valley Water District, 85995 Avenue 52
(Highway 111 and 52nd Avenue), Coachella, CA
RSVP: (760) 862-9984 by October 25th.
Desert Mountains Art Faire
Saturday, November 3; 9 am - 3 pm
In the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains, support conservation
and the artists of the Coachella Valley. Unique paintings, wood
carving, jewelry, handmade clothing and more ~ inspired by the
natural beauty of the National Monument.
Star Party
Saturday, November 3; After Dusk at the Visitor Center
Saturday, November 17; After Dusk at the Sawmill Trailhead
Enjoy a beautiful night learning about the planets and the stars.
Host: Astronomical Society of the Desert. For more details or
information visit their website at www.astrorx.org
Happy Tails Dog Adventures Hikes
Sundays, November 4 & Wednesday, 28; 8:30- 10:30 am
Dogs are more than welcome, but not required to participate.
Hike Rating: ~3 miles, moderate, 800 ft. elevation gain
Location: Cahuilla Hills Park, Palm Desert
Weed Warriors
Saturday, November 10; 8 am - Noon
Join National Monument staff and volunteers in our mission to
eradicate invasive plant species from our desert landscape. These
plants impose a risk to our native flora and fauna, in removing them
we hope to give the native plants and animals a better chance the
thrive. Work is easy/moderate, bring plenty of water, long pants,
gloves, close-toed shoes and sun protection.
RSVP: (760) 862-9984
Diane McClary Plein Air Painting Class: Bighorn Sheep
Thursday, November 15; 9 am – 3 pm
Learn about Plein Air Painting from renowned artist Diane McClary.
This month’s topic is Bighorn Sheep.
Fee: $85 per session
Contact: mcclarydi@aol.com
RSVP: Call Diane (760) 771-6666
Nature Talks
Thursday, November 15; 1 – 2 pm; various subjects,
call (760) 862-9984 for talk topics
The National Monument has 5 life zones, 14 threatened and
endangered species, important cultural resources, palm oases,
endemic plants and animals, geologic treasures and more. Join us for
a fascinating talk on a variety of these interesting topics and learn
more about the Monument in your backyard.
Jr. Trail Guides Explorer Program: Geology and Geography
Saturday, November 17; 1 – 4 pm
Investigate the special geological features that exist in the
Monument through hands on activities and learn why this side of the
mountains is a “desert”. Have fun learning why these mountains
ROCK and earn the “Geology Rocks!” badge.
RSVP: Required by November 16th . Applications are available at
the Visitor Center or online at www.DesertMountains.org and must
be delivered to the Visitor Center or faxed to (760) 568-9908 Limit:
15 participants
Living in Earthquake Country
Saturday, November 24; 1 – 3 pm
The ground we live on will shake violently and destructively during
the next great earthquake in the Coachella Valley. It could happen
any day! WE ALL NEED TO BE PREPARED NOW! See dramatic
animations illustrating how faults have created the spectacular valley
landscape and what can be expected when the southern Andreas
Fault strikes again!
Naturalist Evening Lecture Series
Various subjects, guest lecturers and dates;
call (760) 862-9984 for more information
Join us for a guest lecture from one of Coachella Valley’s leading
scientific professionals and naturalists. Learn about the resources
and issues that are affecting your local National Monument and
surrounding public lands.
Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument
December 2012 Calendar of Events
For more information go to www.DesertMountains.org or call (760) 862-9984
All events are FREE and take place at the National Monument Visitor Center, unless fees or locations are
otherwise noted, 51-500 Hwy 74, 4 miles south of Hwy 111, in Palm Desert, CA
Thursday/Saturday Hikes at the Visitor Center
Thursday/Saturday: see below for trail dates;
9 – 11:30 am
Join an interpretive guide for a FREE guided hike from
the National Monument Visitor Center. From October 1st
until December 31st we are open to explore Dead Indian
Canyon and Carrizo Canyon, in search of the elusive
endangered Peninsular Bighorn sheep. Bring plenty of
water and wear appropriate footwear.
Carrizo Canyon: ~ 3 miles, moderate: 1, 6, 15, 20 & 29
Dead Indian Canyon: ~2.5 miles, easy: 8, 13, 22 & 27
Desert Mountains Art Faire
Saturday, December 1; 9 am – 3 pm
In the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains support
conservation and the artists of the Coachella Valley.
Unique paintings, wood carving, jewelry, handmade
clothing and more.
Star Party
Saturday, December 1; After dusk at Visitor Center
Saturday, December 15; After dusk at Sawmill
Trailhead
Enjoy a night learning about the planets and the stars.
Host: Astronomical Society of the Desert. For more
details or information visit their website at
www.astrorx.org
Happy Tails Dog Adventures Hikes
Dog Hikes Sunday, December 2 & Wednesday,
December 12
Dogs are more than welcome, but not required to
participate.
Hike Rating: ~3 miles, moderate, 800 ft. elevation gain
Location: Cahuilla Hills Park, Palm Desert
Weed Warriors
Saturday, December 8; 8 am - Noon
Join National Monument staff and volunteers in our
mission to eradicate invasive plant species from our
desert landscape. Work is easy/moderate, bring plenty of
water, long pants, gloves, close-toed shoes and sun
protection. thrive.
RSVP: (760) 862-9984
Nature Talks
Saturday, December 8 & Thursday, December 20; 1 –
2 pm; various subjects, call (760) 862-9984 for talk
topics
The National Monument has 5 life zones, 14 threatened
and endangered species, important cultural resources,
palm oases, endemic plants and animals, geologic
treasures and more. Join us for a fascinating talk on a
variety of these interesting topics and learn more about
the Monument in your backyard.
Diane McClary Plein Air Painting Class: Palm Trees
Thursday, December 13; 9 am – 3 pm
Learn about Plein Air painting from renowned artist
Diane McClary. This month’s focus will be painting
palm trees.
Fee: $85 per sesson
RSVP: Diane (760) 771-6666; mcclarydi@aol.com
Jr. Trail Guides Explorer Program: Plants and
Animals
Saturday, December 15; 1 – 4 pm
The desert is full of life and some very unique plants and
animals that are just waiting for you to discover! Get
ready to see the desert in a whole new way and earn the
“Nature Detective” badge.
RSVP: Required by December 14th. Applications are
available at the Visitor Center or online at
www.DesertMountains.org and must be delivered to the
Visitor Center or faxed to (760) 568-9908, Limit: 15
participants
Naturalist Evening Lecture Series
Dates TBD; various subjects and guest lecturers;
call (760) 862-9984 for more information
Join us for a guest lecture from one of Coachella
Valley’s leading scientific professionals and naturalists.
Learn about the resources and issues that are affecting
your local National Monument and surrounding public
lands.
Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument
January 2013 Calendar of Events
For more information go to www.DesertMountains.org or call (760) 862-9984
All events are FREE and take place at the National Monument Visitor Center, unless fees or locations are
otherwise noted, 51-500 Hwy 74, 4 miles south of Hwy 111, in Palm Desert, CA
Fern Canyon Hike
Friday, January 4; 8:30 am – 1 pm
In the Indian Canyons, near Palm Springs, hike through rolling hills
to a wall of maidenhair ferns in a natural palm oasis. Bring plenty of
water and cameras are recommended.
Hike Rating: 4 miles, moderate, 500 ft. elevation gain
Location: Tollgate entrance to the Indian Canyons, Palm Springs
RSVP: (760) 862-9984; Indian Canyons Entrance Fee Required
Thursday/Saturday Hikes at the Visitor Center
Thursday/Saturday: see below for trail dates; 9 – 11:30 am
Join an interpretive guide for a FREE guided hike from the National
Monument Visitor Center. The Randall Henderson and the Art Smith
trail leave from the visitor center and are great hikes to explore the
desert. Learn about local flora and fauna, geology and more!
Randall Henderson: ~2.5 miles, easy to moderate: 5, 10, 19, & 24
Art Smith: ~3 miles, moderate to strenuous: 3, 12, 17, 26 & 31
RSVP: not required, arrive early to avoid disappointment
Desert Mountains Art Faire
Saturday, January 5; 9 am – 3 pm
Experience the lovely National Monument Visitor Center in the
foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains while supporting Conservation
and the Artists of the Coachella Valley.
Unique paintings, wood carving, jewelry, handmade clothing and
more ~ inspired by the natural beauty of the National Monument.
Cove to Lake Cahuilla Hike-La Quinta
Sunday, January 6; 9 am - 1 pm
Friday, January 25; 9 am – 1 pm
Join us for a guided hike in La Quinta Cove. Hike from the cove to
Lake Cahuilla, looking for endangered bighorn sheep, observing
desert adaptations and learning about the Monument in your
backyard. Bring plenty of water, snack/lunch, wear appropriate
shoes and sun protection.
Hike Rating: 6 miles, moderate, 500 ft. elevation gain
Location: East Cove Parking Lot, La Quinta Cove, La Quinta
RSVP: (760) 862-9984
Nature Talks
Thursday, January 10; 1 – 2 pm; various subjects, call
(760) 862-9984 for talk topics
The National Monument has 5 life zones, 14 threatened and
endangered species, important cultural resources, palm oases,
endemic plants and animals, geologic treasures and more. Join us for
a fascinating talk on a variety of these interesting topics and learn
more about the Monument in your backyard.
Weed Warriors
Saturday, January 12; Noon – 4 pm
Join National Monument staff and volunteers in our mission to
eradicate invasive plant species from our desert landscape. These
plants impose a risk to our native flora and fauna, in removing them
we hope to give the native plants and animals a better chance the
thrive. Work is easy/moderate, bring plenty of water, long pants,
gloves, closed-toe shoes and sun protection.
RSVP: (760) 862-9984
Happy Tails Dog Adventures Hikes
Hikes Sunday, January 13 & Wednesday, 23; 8:30- 10:30 am
Dogs are more than welcome, but not required to participate.
Hike Rating: ~3 miles, moderate, 800 ft. elevation gain
Location: Cahuilla Hills Park, Palm Desert
Diane McClary Plein Air Painting Class: Mountains
Thursday, January 17; 9 am – 3 pm
Learn about Plein Air painting from renowned artist Diane McClary.
This month’s focus will be painting mountains. Fee: $85 per session
RSVP: Diane (760) 771-6666; mcclarydi@aol.com
Jr. Trail Guides Explorer Program: Cahuilla Indian Culture
and other Important Historical Influences
Saturday, January 19; 1 – 4 pm
Travel back in time as we learn about some of the early people and
events that happened right here in the National Monument. Be
prepared to get your hands dirty as we dig into the past and earn the
“Keeping History Alive” badge.
RSVP: Required by January 18th. Applications are available at the
Visitor Center or online at www.DesertMountains.org and must be
delivered to the Visitor Center or faxed to (760) 568-9908
Limit: 15 participants
Living in Earthquake Country
Saturday, January 26; 1 – 3 pm
The ground we live on will shake violently and destructively during
the next great earthquake in the Coachella Valley. It could happen
any day! WE ALL NEED TO BE PREPARED NOW! See dramatic
animations illustrating how faults have created the spectacular valley
landscape and what can be expected when the southern Andreas
Fault strikes again!
Star Party
Contact the Visitor Center for 2013 dates (760) 862-9984
Enjoy a beautiful night learning about the planets and the stars.
Host: Astronomical Society of the Desert. For more details or
information visit their website at www.astrorx.org
Naturalist Evening Lecture Series
Various subject, guest lecturers and dates
call (760) 862-9984 for more information
Join us for a guest lecture from one of Coachella Valley’s leading
scientific professionals and naturalists. Learn about the resources
and issues that are affecting your local National Monument and
surrounding public lands.
Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument
February 2013 Calendar of Events
For more information go to www.DesertMountains.org or call (760) 862-9984
All events are FREE and take place at the National Monument Visitor Center, unless fees or locations
are otherwise noted, 51-500 Hwy 74, 4 miles south of Hwy 111, in Palm Desert, CA
Thursday/Saturday Hikes at the Visitor Center:
Every Thursday/Saturday:see below for trail dates; 9 – 11:30 am
Join an interpretive guide for a FREE guided hike from the National
Monument Visitor Center. The Randall Henderson Trail and the Art
Smith trail leave from the visitor center and are great hikes to
explore the desert ecosystem. Learn about local flora and fauna,
geology and more!
Randall Henderson: ~2.5 miles, easy to moderate: 2, 7, 16 & 21
Art Smith: ~3 miles, moderate to strenuous: 9, 14, 23 & 28
*Join us February 14th for a Special Valentine’s Day Hike*
RSVP: not required, arrive early to avoid disappointment
Desert Mountains Art Faire
Saturday, February 2; 9 am – 3 pm
Experience the lovely National Monument Visitor Center in the
foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains while supporting Conservation
and the Artists of the Coachella Valley.
Unique paintings, wood carving, jewelry, handmade clothing and
more ~ inspired by the natural beauty of the National Monument.
Cove to Lake Cahuilla Hike-La Quinta
Sunday, February 3; 9 am - 1 pm
Friday, February 22; 9 am - 1 pm
Join us for a guided hike in La Quinta Cove. Hike from the cove to
Lake Cahuilla, looking for endangered bighorn sheep, observing
desert adaptations and learning about the Monument in your
backyard. Bring plenty of water, snack/lunch, wear appropriate
shoes and sun protection.
Hike Rating: 6 miles, moderate, 500 ft. elevation gain
Location: East Cove Parking Lot, La Quinta Cove, La Quinta
RSVP: (760) 862-9984
Nature Talks
Thursday, February 7; 1 – 2 pm; various subjects, call (760) 8629984 for talk topics
The National Monument has 5 life zones, 14 threatened and
endangered species, important cultural resources, palm oases,
endemic plants and animals, geologic treasures and more. Join us for
a fascinating talk on a variety of these interesting topics and learn
more about the Monument in your backyard.
Weed Warriors
Saturday, February 9; Noon – 4 pm
Join National Monument staff and volunteers in our mission to
eradicate invasive plant species from our desert landscape. Work is
easy/moderate, bring plenty of water, long pants, gloves, closed-toe
shoes and sun protection.
RSVP: (760) 862-9984
Happy Tails Dog Adventures Hikes
Hikes Sunday, February 10 & Wednesday, 20; 8:30 – 11:30 am
Dogs are more than welcome, but not required to participate.
Hike Rating: ~3 miles, moderate, 800 ft. elevation gain
Location: Cahuilla Hills Park, Palm Desert
Diane McClary Plein Air Painting Class: Smoke Trees
Thursday, February 13; 9 am – 3 pm
Learn about Plein Air painting from renowned artist Diane McClary.
This month’s focus will be painting smoke trees.
Fee: $85 per session
RSVP: Diane (760) 771-6666; mcclarydi@aol.com
Jr. Trail Guides Explorer Program: Hiking Safety and
Leave No Trace
Saturday, February 16; 9 am - Noon
Join us as we venture out to explore the desert while learning how to
stay safe and aware on the trails and how to be a good steward of the
earth. Learn various navigation methods by going on a real life
treasure hunt and earn the “Peak Protector” badge.
RSVP: Required by October 19th. Applications are available at the
Visitor Center or online at www.DesertMountains.org and must be
delivered to the Visitor Center or faxed to (760) 568-9908, Limit:
15 participants
Living in Earthquake Country
Saturday, February 23; 1 - 3 pm
The ground we live on will shake violently and destructively during
the next great earthquake in the Coachella Valley. It could happen
any day! WE ALL NEED TO BE PREPARED NOW! See dramatic
animations illustrating how faults have created the spectacular valley
landscape and what can be expected when the southern Andreas
Fault strikes again!
Desert Wildflowers
Tuesday, February 26; 6 pm – 8 pm
Get ready for wildflower season! In this illustrated lecture, learn tips
for wildflower identification, see a variety of species and hear
amazing strategies native plants use for pollination. Find out the hot
spots to see the desert in bloom. Families welcome; this is fun
learning for botanists of all ages.
Location: Learning Center, Palm Springs Library, 300 S. Sunrise
Way, Palm Springs
RSVP: (760) 862-9984
Star Party
Contact the Visitor Center for 2013 dates (760) 862-9984
Enjoy a beautiful night learning about the planets and the stars.
Host: Astronomical Society of the Desert. For more details or
information visit their website at www.astrorx.org
Naturalist Evening Lecture Series
Various subjects, guest lecturers and dates
call (760) 862-9984 for more information
Join us for a guest lecture from one of Coachella Valley’s leading
scientific professionals and naturalists. Learn about the resources
and issues that are affecting your local National Monument and
surrounding public lands.
Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument
March 2013 Calendar of Events
For more information go to www.DesertMountains.org or call (760) 862-9984
All events are FREE and take place at the National Monument Visitor Center, unless fees or locations are
otherwise noted, 51-500 Hwy 74, 4 miles south of Hwy 111, in Palm Desert, CA
Coachella Valley Wildflower Festival!
Saturday, March 2; 9 am – 4 pm
Spend the day with your family and friends in support of the
National Monument and Friends of the Desert Mountains. Join us in
search of wildflowers with guided hikes and nature walks, and enjoy
kids’ activities, plein-air painting, various workshops, raffles, and
vendors. Free entry to event. Food and merchandise will be
available for purchase.
Wildflower Bus Tour
Tuesday, March 5; 8 am - 3 pm
Join our search to find as many spring wildflowers as possible!
Explore with us on a luxury coach to locate desert plants in bloom.
Several stops will allow for visiting the sights on foot. Field guides,
handouts and hand lenses are provided. Bring a sack lunch,
comfortable walking shoes, sun protection and a camera.
Fee: $45 per person
Location: McDonalds parking lot, 72255 Varner Rd., Thousand
Palms at 7:45 am for an 8:00 am departure.
RSVP: (760) 862-9984 before March 4th
Thursday/Saturday Hikes at the Visitor Center
Every Thursday/Saturday:see below for trail dates; 9 – 11:30 am
Join an interpretive guide for a FREE guided hike from the National
Monument Visitor Center. The Randall Henderson Trail and the Art
Smith trail leave from the visitor center and are great hikes to
explore the desert ecosystem. Learn about local flora and fauna,
geology and more!
Randall Henderson: ~2.5 miles, easy to moderate: 7, 16, 21 & 30
Art Smith: ~3 miles, moderate to strenuous: 9, 14, 23 & 28
RSVP: not required, arrive early to avoid disappointment
Nature Talks
Thursday, March 7; 1 - 2 pm; various subjects,
call (760) 862-9984 for talk topics
The National Monument has 5 life zones, 14 threatened and
endangered species, important cultural resources, palm oases,
endemic plants and animals, geologic treasures and more. Join us for
a fascinating talk on a variety of these interesting topics and learn
more about the Monument in your backyard. RSVP: (760) 862-9984
Bear Creek Wildflower Hike-La Quinta
Friday, March 8 & 22; 8 am - Noon
Join us for guided hikes in the search of desert wildflowers! Bear
Creek is a great place to look for desert wildflowers and see a variety
of species. Learn about the threats to our native flowers and what we
can do to help them continue to bloom. Bring plenty of water, a
snack and sun protection and wear closed-toe shoes. Don’t forget
your cameras!
Hike Rating: ~5 miles, easy to moderate
Location: East Cove Trailhead Parking, La Quinta Cove
RSVP: (760) 862-9984
Weed Warriors
Saturday, March 9; 8 am - Noon
Join National Monument staff and volunteers in our mission to
eradicate invasive plant species from our desert landscape. Work is
easy/moderate, bring plenty of water, long pants, gloves, close-toed
shoes and sun protection. RSVP: (760) 862-9984.
Happy Tails Dog Adventures Hikes
Dog Hikes Sunday, March 10 & Wednesday, 20; 8:30 – 10:30 am
Dogs are more than welcome, but not required to participate.
Hike Rating: ~3 miles, moderate, 800 ft. elevation gain
Location: Cahuilla Hills Park, Palm Desert
Diane McClary Plein Air Painting Class: Wildflowers
Thursday, March 13; 9 am – 3 pm
Learn about Plein Air painting from renowned artist Diane McClary.
This month’s focus will be painting wildflowers.
Fee: $85 per session
RSVP: Diane (760) 771-6666; mcclarydi@aol.com
Jr. Trail Guides Explorer Program: Geology and Geography
Saturday, March 16; 9 am - Noon
Investigate the special geological features that exist in the
Monument through hands on activities and learn why this side of the
mountains is a “desert”. Have fun learning why these mountains
ROCK and earn the “Geology Rocks!” badge.
RSVP: Required by March 15th. Applications are available at the
Visitor Center or online at www.DesertMountains.org and must be
delivered to the Visitor Center or faxed to (760) 568-9908
Limit: 15 participants
Living in Earthquake Country
Saturday, March 28; 1 - 3 pm
The ground we live on will shake violently and destructively during
the next great earthquake in the Coachella Valley. It could happen
any day! WE ALL NEED TO BE PREPARED NOW! See dramatic
animations illustrating how faults have created the spectacular valley
landscape and what can be expected when the southern Andreas
Fault strikes again!
Star Party
Call the Visitor Center for 2013 dates: (760) 862-9984
Enjoy a beautiful night learning about the planets and the stars.
Host: Astronomical Society of the Desert. For more details or
information visit their website at www.astrorx.org
RSVP: Not required
Naturalist Evening Lecture Series
Various subjects, guest lecturers and dates;
call (760) 862-9984 for more information
Join us for a guest lecture from one of Coachella Valley’s leading
scientific professionals and naturalists. Learn about the resources
and issues that are affecting your local National Monument.
Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument
April 2013 Calendar of Events
For more information go to www.DesertMountains.org or call (760) 862-9984
All events are FREE and take place at the National Monument Visitor Center, unless fees or locations are
otherwise noted, 51-500 Hwy 74, 4 miles south of Hwy 111, in Palm Desert, CA
Happy Tails Dog Adventures Hikes
Dog Hikes Wednesday, April 3 & Sunday, 21; 8:30 -10:30 am
Dogs are more than welcome, but not required to participate.
Hike Rating: ~3 miles, moderate, 800 ft. elevation gain
Location: Cahuilla Hills Park, Palm Desert
Thursday/Saturday Hikes at the Visitor Center
Every Thursday/Saturday:see below for trail dates; 9 – 11:30 am
Join an interpretive guide for a FREE guided hike from the National
Monument Visitor Center. The Randall Henderson Trail and the Art
Smith trail leave from the visitor center and are great hikes to
explore the desert ecosystem. Learn about local flora and fauna,
geology and more!
Randall Henderson: ~2.5 miles, easy to moderate: 4, 13, 18 & 27
Art Smith: ~3 miles, moderate to strenuous: 6, 11, 20 & 25
RSVP: not required, arrive early to avoid disappointment
Cactus Springs Hike-Hwy 74
Friday, April 5 & 26; 8 am – 1 pm
Join us for guided hike along the Cactus Springs Trail. Enjoy cooler
spring temperatures and explore the transition zone. Check out
Prickly Pear Cactus and Pinyon Pines as you hike to Horsethief
Creek. Bring plenty of water, snack/lunch, sun protection and wear
closed-toe shoes.
Hike Rating: ~5 miles, moderate to strenuous, 600 ft. elevation gain
Location: Sawmill Trailhead, 12 miles South on Hwy 74 from Palm
Desert
RSVP: (760) 862-9984
Desert Mountains Art Faire
Saturday, April 6; 9 am – 3 pm
Experience the lovely National Monument Visitor Center in the
foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains while supporting Conservation
and the Artists of the Coachella Valley.
Unique paintings, wood carving, jewelry, handmade clothing and
more ~ inspired by the natural beauty of the National Monument.
Diane McClary Plein Air Painting Class: Cactus
Thursday, April 11; 9 am – 3 pm
Learn about Plein Air painting from renowned artist Diane McClary.
This month’s focus will be painting palm trees.
Fee: $85 per session
RSVP: Diane (760) 771-6666; mcclarydi@aol.com
Nature Talks
Thursday, April 11 & Saturday, April 27; 1 – 2 pm; various
subjects, call (760) 862-9984 for talk topics
The National Monument has 5 life zones, 12 threatened and
endangered species, important cultural resources, palm oases,
endemic plants and animals, geologic treasures and more. Join us for
a fascinating talk on a variety of these interesting topics and learn
more about the Monument in your backyard.
Weed Warriors
Saturday, April 13; 8:00 am - Noon
Join National Monument staff and volunteers in our mission to
eradicate invasive plant species from our desert landscape. Work is
easy/moderate, bring plenty of water, long pants, gloves, close-toed
shoes and sun protection.
RSVP: (760) 862-9984
Earth Day Bird-a-Thon-Century Run Bus Tour
Friday, April 19; 7:30 am – 4 pm
Guide: Kurt Leuschner, Professor of Natural Resources, College of
the Desert
Whether you are a beginner or a serious birder, enjoy spectacular
desert and mountain scenery on a guided bus tour to well-known
birding and nature hotspots in and around the Coachella Valley.
Water and snacks will be provided. Bring a sack lunch to enjoy at
one of our stops along the way. Before the day is over we hope to
find 100 different bird species, have lots of fun and raise money for
conservation.
Location: Meet at parking lot of the McDonalds restaurant, corner
of Ramon Rd and Varner Rd on the north side of the 10 freeway.
Arrive at 7:15 am for an on time 7:30am departure.
Tickets: $50 Contact: (760) 862-9084, to purchase your ticket
Jr. Trail Guides Explorer Program: Plants and Animals
Saturday, April 20; 9 am - Noon
The desert is full of life and some very unique plants and animals
that are just waiting for you to discover! Get ready to see the desert
in a whole new way and earn the “Nature Detective” badge.
RSVP: Required by April 19th. Applications are available at the
Visitor Center or online at www.DesertMountains.org and must be
delivered to the Visitor Center or faxed to (760) 568-9908
Limit: 15 participants
Star Party
Call the Visitor Center for 2013 dates: (760) 862-9984
Enjoy a beautiful night learning about the planets and the stars.
Host: Astronomical Society of the Desert. For more details or
information visit their website at www.astrorx.org
Naturalist Evening Lecture Series
Various subjects, guest lecturers and dates;
call (760) 862-9984 for more information
Join us for a guest lecture from one of Coachella Valley’s leading
scientific professionals and naturalists. Learn about the resources
and issues that are affecting your local National Monument.
Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument
May 2013 Calendar of Events
For more information go to www.DesertMountains.org or call (760) 862-9984
All events are FREE and take place at the National Monument Visitor Center, unless fees or locations are
otherwise noted, 51-500 Hwy 74, 4 miles south of Hwy 111, in Palm Desert, CA
Nature Talks
Wednesday, May 1 & Sunday, May 12; 1 - 2 pm; various
subjects, call (760) 862-9984 for talk topics
The National Monument has 5 life zones, 12 threatened and
endangered species, important cultural resources, palm oases,
endemic plants and animals, geologic treasures and more. Join us for
a fascinating talk on a variety of these interesting topics and learn
more about the Monument in your backyard.
RSVP: not required
Weed Warriors
Saturday, May 11; 8 am - Noon
Join National Monument staff and volunteers in our mission to
eradicate invasive plant species from our desert landscape. These
plants impose a risk to our native flora and fauna, in removing them
we hope to give the native plants and animals a better chance the
thrive. Work is easy/moderate, bring plenty of water, long pants,
gloves, close-toed shoes and sun protection.
RSVP: (760) 862-9984
Snakes and Lizards of the Monument
Saturday, May 4; 9 – 11:30 am
Learn about the reptiles of our National Monument and then go out
and try to find them! Bring binoculars, plenty of water, sun
protection and walking shoes.
Hike Rating: 2 miles, easy, 300 ft. elevation gain
RSVP: Not required
Jr. Trail Guides Explorer Program: Cahuilla Indian Culture
and other Important Historical Influences
Saturday, May 18; 9 - noon
Travel back in time as we learn about some of the early people and
events that happened right here in the National Monument. Be
prepared to get your hands dirty as we dig into the past and earn the
“Keeping History Alive” badge.
RSVP: Required by January 18th. Applications are available at the
Visitor Center or online at www.DesertMountains.org and must be
delivered to the Visitor Center or faxed to (760) 568-9908
Limit: 15 participants
Happy Tails Dog Adventures Hikes
Dog Hikes Wednesday, May 8 & Sunday, 19; 7 – 9 am
Dogs are more than welcome, but not required to participate.
Hike Rating: ~3 miles, moderate, 800 ft. elevation gain
Location: Cahuilla Hills Park, Palm Desert RSVP: not required
Cactus Springs Hike-Hwy 74
Friday, May 10; 8 am – 1 pm
Join us for a guided hike along the Cactus Springs Trail. Enjoy
cooler spring temperatures and explore the transition zone. Check
out Prickly Pear Cactus and Pinyon Pines as you hike to Horsethief
Creek. Bring plenty of water, snack/lunch, sun protection and wear
closed-toe shoes.
Hike Rating: ~5 miles, moderate to strenuous, 600 ft. elevation gain
Location: Sawmill Trailhead, 12 miles South on Hwy 74 from Palm
Desert
RSVP: (760) 862-9984
Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail Wildflower Wonderland
Walk
Saturday, May 18; 8 am – 2:30 pm
A lovely hike through chaparral and Pinyon Pine/Juniper woodland
with a dazzling variety of trees, shrubs and wildflowers at this
5000 foot transition zone between coastal and desert environments.
This is a moderate stroll as we appreciate the blooms and scenery.
Bring water, food, sunscreen, camera and appropriate dress.
Hike Rating: 5 miles, moderate, 500 ft. elevation gain
RSVP: (760)862-9984 Limit: 12 participants
Star Party
Call the Visitor Center for 2013 dates: (760) 862-9984
Enjoy a beautiful night learning about the planets and the stars.
Host: Astronomical Society of the Desert. For more details or
information visit their website at www.astrorx.org
RSVP: Not required