MNN - Mother Nature Network

The Nature Conservancy will host a series of free public hikes on two breathtaking preserves in the Chico area: the 37,540-acre Dye Creek Preserve, located near Los Molinos, and the Vina Plains Preserve, 12 miles north of Chico. The preserves are working cattle ranches, and the Conservancy’s semi-annual tours provide the public with an opportunity to view some of the region’s most spectacular landscapes with knowledgeable and entertaining guides, providing insight on many cultural, geological and biological points of interest.

 

All events are held rain or shine, except in event of a serious downpour. Sturdy footwear such as hiking boots is a requirement. The weather may be hot, humid or rainy, so wear layered clothing, and bring a waterproof jacket and a hat. Carry plenty of drinking water, and bring a lunch. Please arrive 15 minutes early. Space is limited to 25 persons, so visitors are advised to book early. To book a reservation or to receive more information, contact Christianne Belles of The Nature Conservancy at (530) 897-6370 x200 or cbelles@tnc.org.

 

During the spring the Vina Plains Preserve comes alive with colorful wildflowers that carpet the grasslands and ring the vernal pools in spectacular bands of color. The pools support many rare, threatened or endangered species and attract a large array of waterfowl and shorebirds that feast on the small crustaceans that fill the pools this time of year.

 

The one-mile hike is relatively flat, but the ground will be uneven and may be wet and slippery in places, depending on the weather. The hike will be led by Conservancy botanists who are extremely knowledgeable about the flora of the site.

 

The four- to five-mile hike follows the course of Dye Creek itself, which cuts through a pristine setting of volcanic buttes, hills and extensive blue oak woodlands, before flowing into the Sacramento River. Expect spectacular views, spring flowers and occasional wildlife sightings, such as golden eagles and woodpeckers. You’ll also have a rare opportunity to explore a cave thought to be frequented by Ishi, the last survivor of the Yahi American Indian tribe.

 

A reasonable level of fitness and agility is required to complete the hike. Hikers will have to traverse a creek and navigate rocky terrain.

 

Directions to Vina Plains Preserve
From Chico: take CA-99 north for 11.4 miles/15 minutes (from East Avenue, Chico). The preserve entrance is on the right (east side of Hwy 99) opposite the junction with Haille Road; it is safest to turn left onto Haille Road and then cross over the highway when the road is clear.

 

From Red Bluff: take CA-99/Antelope Blvd south for approx. 27 miles/35 minutes (from Main Street, Red Bluff). The preserve entrance is on the left (east side of Hwy 99) opposite the junction with Haille Road.

 

Directions to Dye Creek Preserve
From Chico: take CA-99 north for approx. 30 miles. Five miles north of Los Molinos turn right onto 68th Avenue and follow the road for 2.5 miles. At the junction with Foothill Blvd., turn right and enter Dye Creek Preserve. Continue along the drive for approx. 1 mile, and park where indicated.

 

From Red Bluff: take CA-99/Antelope Blvd. south for approx. 7 miles, then turn left onto 68th Avenue and follow the road for 2.5 miles. At the junction with Foothill Blvd, turn right and enter Dye Creek Preserve. Continue along the drive for approx. 1 mile, and park where indicated.