The Outer Point Reyes area is a wonderful place to find fall migrants, many of them Eastern passerine vagrants. Warblers spotted here have included Blackburnian, Blackpoll, Chestnut-sided, Connecticut, Black-and-white, Magnolia, Prothonotary, Yellow-throated, and Black-throated Blue. We have seen Yellow-green, Red-eyed and White-eyed Vireos, Orchard Orioles, Ovenbirds, American Redstarts, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, Peregrine Falcons, and Broad-winged Hawks. In the water we usually have Common Murres, Pigeon Guillemots, Cormorants, and Loons. The chance to see migrants is very much dependent on the weather; the absence of winds from the northwest and an overcast night sky will help trap these land birds at the Outer Point.

Weather is unpredictable, bring layers and be prepared for damp wind. Gale cancels. Bring lunch and liquids. This hike is limited to 15 participants.

If you need binoculars, please advise the leader before the trip so they can bring along an extra pair.

Hike Rating: Category 2 - Moderate

Elevation change: Minor

Leaders: Matt Tarlach 925-482-6129, Tracy Farrington

Meet: 8:30am at Bear Valley Visitor Center, Olema. GPS: 38.04015134873366, -122.79957253617275

Directions: After crossing the San Rafael Bridge, go north on 101 to Lucas Valley Road. Drive toward Nicasio. After passing the town, turn left on Point Reyes-Petaluma Road for 3 miles to another stop sign. Turn right across the bridge, go 3 miles to SR 1. Turn left into Point Reyes Station. Some enjoy stopping at the Bovine Bakery for coffee and pastries.Continue out of town towards Olema, then turn right onto Bear Valley Road. The Visitor Center is off Bear Valley.

(Photo of Prairie Warbler by Beth Branthaver)

Registrations are closed

Outer Point Reyes