Rolling hills in the distance meet the Pacific Ocean. — Legacy Club Field Trips Explore nature with The Legacy Club in California. © Bill Marr/TNC

California Legacy Club Field Trips

Our Legacy Club field trips provide a behind-the-scenes look at our work, access to TNC staff and a chance to meet fellow Legacy Club members.

All 2022 field trips are currently full. Sign up to be on the waitlist.
You will be notified if space becomes available.

Sign Up for the Waitlist Today

Thank you for your commitment to the future of our natural world. We hope you join us to experience some of the beautiful places you’re helping to protect.

As we resume in-person field trips, the health and safety of our members and staff remain our top priority. All TNC staff and field trip participants are required to be vaccinated for COVID-19. See the Legacy Club Field Trip Health & Safety page for current information on COVID-19 safety protocols and requirements for participants.

Trips are limited to 1 trip per Legacy Club member plus a guest. The 2022 Field Trips are expected to fill up very quickly.

Questions? Contact your Legacy Club Stewardship Manager Allison Murdock Haslam at caLegacy@tnc.org or (415) 281-0425

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the trips fill up so quickly?

Due to TNC’s COVID-19 in-person gathering regulations, space is extremely limited for our 2022 Legacy Club field trips as we are limiting group sizes to reduce exposure. Historically, most trips were larger with 30-50 people able to attend each trip.
Should I sign up for a waitlist?

Yes! We receive cancellations regularly and will notify waitlisted members as soon as a spot may become available. We are also hoping that as we get closer to the trip dates, TNC COVID-19 in-person gathering regulations will loosen and we will be able to host more people at a time. If/when that happens, we will use the waitlist to fill trips.
Where can I find vaccination and current COVID-19 safety and protocol information?

All TNC staff and field trip participants are required to be vaccinated for COVID-19. Check our website here for more information.
Is there a fee associated with these trips?

Trips are free unless an additional transportation or equipment use cost is associated with it. For example, on a kayaking trip, guests pay the cost of the kayak rental.
When will I receive more details on the trip I’ve signed up for?

The brochure includes the approximate activity level and timing for each trip. One month prior to your field trip, you will receive additional details based on local conditions along with specifics about the meeting location, itinerary and hike.
How do I cancel my reservation?

We have waitlists for each trip, so please let us know if your plans change. Contact Allison Murdock Haslam at CaLegacy@tnc.org or (415) 281-0425 to cancel or update your reservation.
Can I bring my dog?

No dogs or pets are allowed at these ecologically sensitive locations. Email Allison at CaLegacy@tnc.org if you have a registered support dog you need to bring.
Will TNC help me arrange transportation to our meeting location?

Guests are responsible for arranging travel to our meeting locations. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, we cannot assist guests with coordinating carpooling. If restrictions lessen or change, we will share a sign-up sheet where guests can coordinate carpooling on their own.
Is there a chance the trip will be cancelled?

We may need to cancel due to extreme circumstances, including inclement weather and forest fires, or if the COVID-19 pandemic worsens.

Santa Ysabel East Preserve (San Diego County)

Thursday, March 31

Part of the larger Santa Ysabel Open Space in eastern San Diego County, this preserve features rolling grasslands, groves of towering oaks and giant sycamores clustered along Santa Ysabel Creek. On this trip, you’ll learn about its threatened and unique plants and animals and how TNC has worked with partners to protect this special place.

Hike: Strenuous in parts with steep incline and decline, 4 miles, hiking sticks encouraged
Estimated time of trip: 9:30am – 12:30pm, with optional BYO picnic lunch after
Estimated meeting point: 10 minutes outside of Julian

Santa Clara River (Ventura County)

Friday, April 8

Explore an active restoration site alongside one of Southern California’s most important and intact rivers, where we’re restoring scarce riparian habitat that benefits two federally endangered songbirds, the least Bell's vireo and southwestern willow flycatcher. Learn how our work with partners along 21 miles of the river is helping to protect this vital source of fresh water for residents, farmers and wildlife.

Hike: Moderately easy (flat but uneven and sandy surface), 2 miles
Estimated time of trip: 9:00am – 12pm
Estimated meeting point: 20 minutes east of Ventura

Green rolling hills stretch ahead with oak wood woodlands in the distance. — **Santa Ysabel Preserve East** The Santa Ysabel Open Space Preserve, located in San Diego's backcountry, is part of an interconnected network of protected areas throughout southern California. © Macduff Everton

In the distance, rolling green hills and woodlands line the sandy bank of the Santa Clara River. — **Santa Clara River** The Santa Clara River is one of the most important and intact river systems in Southern California. © Melinda Kelley

Santa Ysabel Preserve East The Santa Ysabel Open Space Preserve, located in San Diego's backcountry, is part of an interconnected network of protected areas throughout southern California. © Macduff Everton

Santa Clara River The Santa Clara River is one of the most important and intact river systems in Southern California. © Melinda Kelley

Frank and Joan Randall Tehachapi Preserve (Kern County)

Two options: Tuesday, April 19 or Wednesday, April 20

Hike through a variety of ecosystems, including Central Valley grasslands and ponderosa pine forested mountaintops—essential habitats for such iconic species as California condors and mountain lions. Learn how this critical wildlife corridor connects the coastal range to the Sierra Nevada and why we’re working to safeguard it for the future.

Hike: Easy, 1-2 miles, or a more strenuous option
Estimated time of trip: 9am-2pm
Estimated meeting point: 20 minutes outside Tehachapi

Note: Previously listed as Tehachapi Corridor

Kern River Preserve (Kern County)

Friday, May 6

Located in the southern Sierra Nevada, this 3,000-acre preserve encompasses one of California’s finest remaining riparian forests. Originally protected by TNC, then transferred to the National Audubon Society, it safeguards an unusual mix of plants and wildlife, including over 200 species of birds. Join us for a leisurely springtime hike when songbirds are migrating to learn about our new projects in the region.

Hike: Easy, 1-2 miles
Estimated time of trip: 10am-2pm
Estimated meeting point: 20 minutes outside the town of Lake Isabella

Rolling green hills and mountains beyond in the distance. — **Tehachapi Corridor** Scenic views of the rolling green hills and oak trees of the Tollhouse Ranch located in the heart of the Tehachapi corridor, California. © Ian Shive

A willow flycatcher perches on a branch. — **Kern River Preserve** The southwestern willow flycatcher can be seen at Kern River Preserve. As an endangered species, their habitat is protected but they can often be spotted from the parking lot. © Andrew Weitzel/Creative Commons

Tehachapi Corridor Scenic views of the rolling green hills and oak trees of the Tollhouse Ranch located in the heart of the Tehachapi corridor, California. © Ian Shive

Kern River Preserve The southwestern willow flycatcher can be seen at Kern River Preserve. As an endangered species, their habitat is protected but they can often be spotted from the parking lot. © Andrew Weitzel/Creative Commons

Jack and Laura Dangermond Preserve (Santa Barbara County)

Two options: Friday, May 20 or Saturday, May 21

Visit an active cattle ranch and more than 24,300-acre preserve located at Point Conception—a critical ecological transition zone between Northern and Southern California. On your tour, you’ll learn how this magnificent property connects a network of protected areas covering 125,000 acres of ecologically important, climate-resilient habitat. Join us to hear about our plans for its future. This trip may have a $30 shuttle service fee.

Hike: Moderate, 2-3 miles
Estimated time of trip: To be determined, but trip will begin no earlier than 9am and end no later than 4:30pm.
Estimated meeting point: 45 miles west of Santa Barbara

Sierra Valley (Nevada County)

Friday, June 3

One of the Golden State’s best kept secrets, this high-alpine valley supports the greatest concentration and variety of birds in the Sierras. It also channels fresh water from the mountains through the Middle Fork Feather River, a vital water source for millions of people. Discover the innovative strategies TNC is deploying to preserve the valley and large-scale natural lands in the U.S. and abroad.

Hike: Easy, 1-2 miles
Estimated time of trip: 9am-2pm
Estimated meeting point: 45 minutes north of Truckee

The Pacific Ocean meets with the cliffside coast of the Jack and Laura Dangermond Preserve. — **Dangermond Preserve** Cold water currents of the northern Pacific collide with warmer waters of the Santa Barbara Channel to create a rich and diverse habitat unlike any other in the state. © Peter Montgomery

Dangermond Preserve Cold water currents of the northern Pacific collide with warmer waters of the Santa Barbara Channel to create a rich and diverse habitat unlike any other in the state. © Peter Montgomery

Sierra Valley The valley supports the greatest concentration and variety of birds in the Sierra. © Simon Williams/TNC

Carpenter Valley (Nevada County)

Friday, June 24

Carpenter Valley is one of the most spectacular untouched places in the northern Sierra Nevada. Protected from development in 2017, the lower valley contains a variety of habitats, including forests and lush meadows. On your hike, you’ll see wildflowers, various bird species, and evidence of beavers in the creeks and learn why this area is a top priority for biodiversity conservation.

Hike: Moderate, 2-3 miles
Estimated time of trip: 10am-2pm
Estimated meeting point: 20 minutes outside Truckee

Point Arena-Stornetta (Mendocino County)

Saturday, September 17

Part of the California Coastal National Monument, this stunning property—purchased by TNC and partners then transferred to the Bureau of Land Management—boasts spectacular views of coastal bluffs and the estuary of the Garcia River. You’ll explore a rarely visited section of the California coastline and learn about our current research on the impacts of sea-level rise and how we’re protecting threatened coho salmon.

Hike: Moderately easy, 2-3 miles
Estimated time of trip: 10am-3pm
Estimated meeting point: near the town of Point Arena

Carpenter Valley TNC acquired lower Carpenter Valley in 2017, working closely with the Truckee Donner Land Trust as part of the Northern Sierra Partnership. © Amelia Remeta/TNC

Point Arena-Stornetta TNC staff Jen Carah and Larry Serpa on the bluffs overlooking the Garcia River estuary. © TNC

Shasta River (Siskiyou County)

Friday, October 14

Chinook salmon overcome incredible obstacles, including some of nature’s fiercest predators and low stream flows, on their epic migration to their natal spawning grounds in the Shasta River. See these amazing creatures complete their journey and enjoy spectacular views of Mount Shasta. You’ll learn firsthand how TNC is working with local stakeholders on restoration and flow enhancement projects. This tour also offers an excellent opportunity for bird-watching.

Hike: Moderately easy, 1-mile hike over uneven terrain
Estimated time of trip: 10am-2pm
Estimated meeting point: 45 minutes north of the town of Mount Shasta

Cosumnes River Preserve (Sacramento County)

Thursday, November 17

A major stop on the Pacific Flyway, this 50,000-acre preserve hosts over 250 species of resident and migratory birds, including lesser and greater sandhill cranes. As the last free-flowing river on the Sierra’s western slope, the Cosumnes provides beneficial flooding that makes it a wellspring of conservation opportunities. See TNC’s agricultural water management and habitat restoration strategies in action. This trip culminates with a viewing of the sandhill cranes at sunset.

Hike: Easy, 1 mile; wheelchair accessible
Estimated time of trip: 1 – 5:30pm
Estimated meeting point: Cosumnes River Preserve in Galt

**Sandhill cranes** In the Cosumnes River Preserve wetlands at sunset. © Alan W. Eckert, Alan Eckert Photography

Shasta River The upper reaches of the Shasta River hold the best hope for restoring salmon populations in the Klamath Basin. © Bridget Besaw

Calling all naturalists and photographers!

If you have an interest in volunteering as a naturalist or photographer on a field trip, please include that in your registration form. Volunteer photographers will use their skills to document a field trip while the volunteer naturalists will be an additional resource by providing information on flora and fauna to those around them.

Remembering Larry Serpa

In 2021, TNC lost a conservation legend. Larry Serpa spent 45 years at TNC as an aquatic ecologist, managing natural areas, surveying properties for rare species and leading exemplary and often surprising trips into the field. He joined many a Legacy Club field trip in California to share his passion with TNC supporters.

Learn more about Larry's Legacy

Two people stands in grasses on the banks of the Garcia River.

Dangermond Canopy: TNC's Dangermond Preserve, California. Oak woodlands in and near Black Brush pasture. TNC biologist Larry Serpa and photographer David Littschwager collected species here for a photographic biodiversity survey. © Bill Marr/TNC

Two people looks up into the branches of a tree.

Dangermond Preserve, CA: TNC's Dangermond Preserve, California. Aquatic ecologist for California's Stewardship program Larry Serpa surveys a stand of coastal live oak woodlands with Jack and Laura Dangermond Preserve Director Michael Bell. © Bill Marr/TNC

A tree sapling grows with protective mesh around its young trunk.

Tree_Sapling: Coast live oak saplings are given a protective start under a restoration program at Elkhorn Slough, the second largest remaining salt marsh in California. © Larry Serpa/TNC

2022 California Legacy Club Field Trips

Explore nature with The Legacy Club