AT THE ARBORETUM: ALL ABOUT OAKS

Oak Discovery Day — 1-4 p.m. May 2, Shields Oak Grove, west end of the arboretum. Organizers said the program features something for all ages. Activities, all centered around the newly constructed Oak Discovery Trail, includes an Arbor Day ceremony, oak tours, talks by oak experts, demonstrations of traditional Native American uses of acorns, hands-on oak-related family activities, and exhibits of animals and insects associated with oaks.

Tour — Oak Ecology and Diversity. 2 p.m. May 16, gazebo.

PLUS PLANT SALES, MUSIC, MORE TOURS

Plant sales — Perfect Plants for Pots, April 24; and End of Season Clearance, May 15. 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Arboretum Teaching Nursery, Garrod Drive south of La Rue Road.

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

Folk Music Jams — Play or listen. Noon April 30, and May 14 and 28. Wyatt Deck.

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”).

AT STEBBINS COLD CANYON RESERVE

NATURE OUTINGS

Bobcat Ranch: A Look at Restoration in Practice — Moderate hike on this 6,800-acre ranch northeast of Stebbins Cold Canyon. 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, April 24.

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. This outing will meet in the Stebbins parking lot and wind up at the dam. 9 a.m.-noon Sunday, April 25.

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.

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 meals. 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.

Plant Communities and Habitats — A hike along the switchback trail through creek, oak woodland and chaparral habitats, to the west ridge where scenic vistas of the Sacramento Valley and Lake Berryessa fill the horizon in many directions. Approximately 2.5 miles with an ascent of 1,200 feet. 9 a.m.-noon Sunday, May 23.

North Coast Overnight — At Angelo Coast Range Reserve (north of Mendocino), another unit of the UC Natural Reserve System. The adventure includes an introduction to the reserve, a natural history presentation, and plenty of hiking and exploration. Moderate hiking through redwood groves, mixed conifer-deciduous forest and upland river terraces. Participants are responsible for all travel and food. Suggested donation: $62 per person, including cabin accommodations for Saturday and Sunday nights. May 29-31.

Introduction to Geocaching — High-tech treasure-hunting for hidden containers called geocaches. Learn how to use global positioning satellite (GPS) navigation as you hunt for geocaches within the reserve. Bring your own GPS units and other tools (map, compass, exchange items) or share with others. 9 a.m.-noon Sunday, May 30.

Trust Walk — Hike for a short distance along the homestead trail, then pair up with someone to help you walk a portion of the trail without using your sight. This activity heightens the other senses and creates a unique and lasting hiking experience. 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, June 5.

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.

Loop Trail: Summer Solstice at Sunrise — Five miles of ups and downs with a 1,200-foot elevation gain, on the morning after the shortest night of the year. Many steps are interspersed with breathtaking views. Bring sturdy shoes, at least a liter of water, sunscreen and a snack. 5-10 a.m. Saturday, June 19.

NATURE’S THEATRE: NATURE PLAY FOR KIDS

All programs run from 10 a.m. to noon.

AGES 4-8 — Nature Heroes, May 2. To Be a Tree, May 16.

AGES 6-10 — 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: nrs.ucdavis.edu/stebbins.html.