AT STEBBINS COLD CANYON RESERVE

NATURE OUTINGS

The Explorers: Both Young and Old — A hands-on adventure in the canyon. This outing is geared toward children 10 years old and up. 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, April 10.

Watercolors and the Outdoors — No experience necessary, just a willingness to experiment with paints and an openness to the surrounding beauty. All materials, as well as tea and scones, will be provided. Participants should bring blankets, sun protection and teacups. 9 a.m.-noon Sunday, April 11.

Wildflowers: The Colors of Early Spring — A walk along the Homestead Trail at the height of the blooming season. 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, April 17.

A Look at Trees — On this one-mile hike, a certified arborist talks about eight common native species and how trees adapt to microclimates in the canyon. 9 a.m.-noon Sunday, April 18.

Bobcat Ranch: A Look at Restoration in Practice — Moderate hike on this 6,800-acre ranch northeast of Stebbins Cold Canyon. The ranch owner, Audubon California, is conserving and restoring the land, and maintaining it as an active cattle ranch. Learn about research and restoration, and habitat and wildlife. 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, April 24. Meeting place is Steady Eddy’s in Winters at 8:30 a.m.

A Glimpse From the Past: A History of Berryessa — Discover the region’s human drama, from the native inhabitants and early settlers to the construction of Monticello Dam and the creation of Lake Berryessa. Learn how water has been the common thread in the region’s history. This outing will meet in the Stebbins parking lot and wind up at the dam. 9 a.m.-noon Sunday, April 25.

FULL: By the Banks of Putah Creek — May 1.

Nocturnal Happenings — What sort of things go “bump in the night” at Stebbins Cold Canyon? The walk will include a number of experiential activities for children (ages 8-12) and adults. 8-10 p.m. Saturday, May 8.

FULL: Star Gazing: Tour of the Night Sky — May 15. (A repeat is scheduled for June 12; see below for details.)

The Homestead Jamboree — An impromptu concert under the tall tree canopy at the Stebbins homestead site. Keith Cary and Wyatt Hesemeyer are among the local musicians who plan a jam session of bluegrass, hillbilly and jazz songs, with hikers invited to gather round to experience the sights and musical sounds of the canyon. Bring picnic means. The hike is 2.5 miles round trip, with a slight grade and a few steps. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, May 22.

Star Gazing: Tour of the Night Sky — A 1 1⁄4-mile hike, slightly uphill, to a meadow. This outing fills up quickly, so RSVP early. Wear appropriate clothing for evening; binoculars are optional. 8:30-11:30 p.m. Saturday, June 12.

NATURE’S THEATRE: NATURE PLAY FOR KIDS

All programs run from 10 a.m. to noon, except for Mother Nature and the Toddlers, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

AGES 1-4 — Mother Nature and the Toddlers, April 17.

AGES 4-8 — Animal Circle Club, April 11. Nature Heroes, May 2. To Be a Tree, May 16.

AGES 6-10 — Starwalker and the Planets, April 10. World of the Small, April 25. Glug Glug and the Water Boss (water play), May 23.

All activities are open to the public. Optional fees: $5 per person or $10 per family. Activities fill up fast; reservations are required. E-mail Jeff Falyn, jfalyn@ucdavis.edu, with your name, address, event date, and phone number and/or e-mail address, and indicate whether you need directions. More information and the complete schedule: nrs.ucdavis.edu/stebbins.html.

AT THE ARBORETUM

Plant sales — Great Plants for Water-Wise Gardens, April 10, and Perfect Plants for Pots, April 24. 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Arboretum Teaching Nursery, Garrod Drive south of La Rue Road.

Folk Music Jams — Play or listen. Noon April 16 and 30. Wyatt Deck.

Tour — Explore the Redwood Grove. 2 p.m. April 25, Buehler Alumni and Visitors Center.

Tour — Simple Tips for Great Container Gardening. 11 a.m. May 1, Arboretum Terrace Garden, Davis Commons, First Street and Richards Boulevard.

All events are free and open to the public. More information: (530) 752-4880 or arboretum.ucdavis.edu (for directions, click on “Plan Your Visit”).