News Release Archive

Recreation Advisory: New Melones Lake Interpretive Events, December 2004 and January 2005

Media Contact: Jeffrey McCracken, 916-978-5100, JMCCRACKEN@mp.usbr.gov

For Release: December 01, 2004

With the holiday season in full swing, more hikes and walks have been scheduled to help us burn calories while enjoying a bit of nature and the rich human history of our region. All hikes begin at 10:30 a.m. Some require pre-registration. Please remember to wear sturdy shoes and sun screen, bring water, snacks, and binoculars. For additional information, please call the New Melones Visitor Center at 209-536-9094, Extension 22.

Ranger-Guided Walks and Hikes:

December 5, 10:30 a.m., Winter Moods at Natural Bridges Join Ranger Leanne Bryan for an opportunity to see winter greenery, birds, a remarkable geological feature, and enjoy a tranquil spot by Coyote Creek. It’s a 2-mile moderate walk with 300 ft. elevation change. Meet at the Natural Bridges trailhead on Parrott's Ferry Rd.

December 12, 10:30 a.m., Rambling Around Peoria Mountain Views of the Stanislaus River canyon, Table Mountain, and oak woodland surprises. This 3-mile moderate to strenuous hike will get the heart pumping. Meet at Peoria Basin Equestrian Staging Area on Peoria Flat Rd.

December 18, 10:30 a.m., The Eccentric Guardian of Natural Bridges L.A. Barnes was the caretaker cum tour guide of this unique geological wonder for nearly 40 years. Hear his story and enjoy the peacefulness of this 2-mile moderate trail down to Coyote Creek and back up. Meet at Natural Bridges trailhead on Parrott's Ferry Rd.

December 19, 10:30 a.m., Angels Creek Loop Enjoy lake views, learn a bit about lichen and moss, and, if you're lucky, get a glimpse of an eagle on this 2-3 mile rolling trail. Meet at Angels Creek boat ramp at Glory Hole Recreation Area.

December 26, 10:30 a.m., Carson Creek Loop Let's walk off the Christmas meal and enjoy the variety this trail offers: shaded glens, craggy heights with lake views, while working our way down the tower climb. The loop is 3 miles long and moderate with one-half mile of steady climb back to our meeting point. Meet at the Upper Carson Creek trailhead at Glory Hole Recreation Area.

January 9, 10:30 a.m., Camp Nine Road-The Story of Elijah Wilson and Life and Death in the Canyon After a spectacular drive down into the upper end of the Stanislaus River canyon, we'll begin our walk at river's edge and hear the stories of life and death in this remote, beautiful area. This is a 3 mile round trip, mostly on the old road with one-half mile on trail at Clark's Flat. Pre-registration is required. Phone 209-536-9094, Extension 22.

January 16, 10:30 a.m., Heron Point Vistas This walk offers 2 miles of easy pace with sun and shade, lake views, and eagle sightings. Meet at Acorn Campground in Tuttletown Recreation Area.

January 22, 10:30 a.m., Peoria Mountain Join Ranger Therese Hudon for a 2-mile walk on the old lookout road and horse trails in this wild oak woodland area. Meet at Peoria Basin Equestrian Area on Peoria Flat Rd.

January 23, 10:30 a.m., Lower Carson Creek A small creek, a variety of our favorite birds, and Melones history on this short, easy 2-mile trail. Meet at the LOWER Carson Creek trail head at Glory Hole Recreation Area.

January 29, 10:30 a.m., Angels Creek Loop Two miles of sunny oak woodland habitat with a bit of shade provides the opportunity to learn a variety of plants and how Italian settlers made bread from stone ovens. Meet Ranger Pattie Guida at the Angels Creek boat ramp in Glory Hole Recreation Area.

January 30, 10:30 a.m., Table Mountain's Panoramic Wonders This is a popular hike that requires effort to reach great views of Melones and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Vernal pools may be active, and peregrine falcons and eagles might make an appearance. This 2 mile trail has a short, steep, rocky section. Pre-registration is required: Phone 209-536-9094, Extension 22.

# # #

The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.