What we’re about
We are dedicated to the conservation of California native plants and their natural habitats, and to increasing the understanding, appreciation, and horticultural use of native plants. Want to learn more about Marin’s native plants? Come join us for field trips, lectures, local hikes and work parties.
Safety -- by attending, participants agree to be 100% responsible for their own safety and health, as well as for any equipment/vehicles they might bring.
Dogs -- Please, no dogs at these events.
For more information about the Marin Chapter’s activities check out our chapter's website: http://www.cnpsmarin.org/
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Lower Steep Ravine & Rocky PointSteep Ravine, Stinson Beach, CA
Lower Steep Ravine & Rocky Point, Mt. Tamalpais SP
Friday, March 14, 10 am to 2 pm
Leader(s): Ann & Woody ElliottLower Steep Ravine trail and the Rocky Point loop down to the Steep Ravine cabins can be quite incredible in early March. To the east of CA Highway 1 is a botanically rich riparian habitat that is the home to Trillium chloropetalum (giant wake-robin), both species of Mianthemum (Solomon seal), Fritillaria affinis (mission bells) and Prosartes smithii (Smith’s fairy bells). We will follow the gradually ascending trail up the creek just to the junction with the Dipsea Trail, then return to Highway 1. For those with a bit more time, we will cross Highway 1 and descend down the Rocky Point paved road through the “soft chaparral” to lunch overlooking the ocean viewing early-spring flowers. Possibilities include colorful gems as Lasthenia californica (goldfields), Layia platyglossa (tidytips), Castilleja subinclusa ssp. franciscana (Franciscan Indian paintbrush), and, if we are really lucky, we will get to smell the heavenly scent of the rare (for Marin) yellow Erysimum franciscanum (wallflower).
Directions: Meet at the lower trailhead to Steep Ravine, located on CA Highway 1, a mile or so south of Stinson Beach. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, look for the large and visible gate that is the entrance to the Steep Ravine Cabins and park at one of the small parking areas or pullouts nearby. There is a fairly large parking area down the hill.
Bring: Water, a snack, and rain gear. Expect muddy trails. Heavy rain cancels.
Email Ann with any questions. annonfire@gmail.com
Text for day-of-trip questions or issues: 530-521-4402If you have not done so already, please sign the Waiver for Marin Chapter 2025
Note: Destructive invasive plant pathogens and weed seeds can be transported to sensitive plant habitats when contaminated soil or plant material is shed from footwear, equipment (such as hiking poles), and other personal items. See these 2 brochures for how you can minimize your impact. Pocket Guide - Every Step Counts and Cleanliness Tips for Hikers
Link to website https://cnpsmarin.org/events-archive/lower-steep-ravine-rocky-point/
- Southern Slope of Mt TamBootjack campground, Mill Valley, CA
Southern Slopes of Mt. Tamalpais, a botanical excursion through chaparral, woodland, and cypress groves.
Wednesday , March 19, 2025 from 10 am to 2 pm
Leader: Kurt RademacherReservations for this field trip begin March 1.
Join this hike from Bootjack, exploring the flowering shrubs and natural history of chaparral along the Matt Davis Trail, mixed woodlands along the Nora Trail up to West Point for lunch and spectacular views, and serpentine endemic plants as we return along the Old Stage Road.
Among the plants we expect to see are: bush poppy, chaparral pea, western azalea, several manzanita species, musk bush ceanothus, yerba santa, and Sargent cypress. This route entails 3.5 miles of moderate hiking, with frequent stops for plants, and a 500’ elevation rise and return.
Directions: Meet us at the Bootjack Campground parking lot along Panoramic Highway: 7.7 miles from NW from Tamalpais Valley Junction, Mill Valley; or 4.6 miles NE from Stinson Beach. Parking is limited, so if able to carpool, please do so. State Park parking fee: $8 cash or check or pass checked out from local library. Restrooms at Bootjack and West Point Inn.
Bring: Water, a snack/lunch. Dress in layers. Hiking poles and boots or sturdy shoes suggested.
Rain cancels.
Email Ann with any questions: annonfire@gmail.com
Text for day-of-trip questions or issues: 530-521-4402If you have not done so already, please sign the Waiver for Marin Chapter 2025.
Note: Destructive invasive plant pathogens and weed seeds can be transported to sensitive plant habitats when contaminated soil or plant material is shed from footwear, equipment (such as hiking poles), and other personal items. See these 2 brochures for how you can minimize your impact. Pocket Guide - Every Step Counts and Cleanliness Tips for Hikers
- Mount BurdellMt. Burdell, Novato, CA
Mount Burdell Serpentine, Oaks, and Grasslands
Saturday, March 22, 10 am to noon
Leaders: Stacey Pogorzelski and Caroline ChristmanMeet at the San Carlos Way trailhead north of San Marin Drive, where San Carlos Way meets Mt. Burdell OSP.
We will check out the nearby serpentine soil and rock outcrops to look for what’s b looming! We may see blue dicks, yellowbeak owl's clover, California buttercup, and early poppies. This is a great area for Zygadene, but it may be past its peak bloom. Willow and rushes grow in wetter areas, and of course oaks with new growth of leaves and/or catkins.
We will do a loop of 2-3 miles, exact trail depending upon what flowers and plants have been seen recently and trail conditions.
Bring layers, snacks, and water. Rain cancels.
If you have not done so already, please sign the Waiver for Marin Chapter 2025.
Note: Destructive invasive plant pathogens and weed seeds can be transported to sensitive plant habitats when contaminated soil or plant material is shed from footwear, equipment (such as hiking poles), and other personal items. See these 2 brochures for how you can minimize your impact. Pocket Guide - Every Step Counts and Cleanliness Tips for Hikers.
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