VIRGIN CREEK FIELD TRIP

Saturday, September 14 from 8:00AM - 12:00PM

The inaugural field trip of the 2024-25 season will occur on Saturday, September 14, when we visit Virgin Creek Beach north of Fort Bragg. Virgin Creek is one of the best shorebird locations along our coast. Many species can be seen here during fall migration, including the Western Snowy Plover (listed as threatened on the endangered species list).

We have had some terrific trips to Virgin Creek in previous years. Given the increasing level of weekend visitation to this and other beaches along our coast, we will meet at 9 a.m. at the unpaved parking area on the east side of Highway 1 north of Geo Aggregates (the old Baxman plant). We will walk the trail across the meadow to the Haul Road bridge, then go down to the beach at the creek mouth. We will proceed north along the beach and then walk “The Enchanted Trail” to search for migratory songbirds and other woodland species. Birders at any experience level will enjoy this trip. Join us and learn more about the feathered tourists who visit our beaches. Participants are advised to wear sturdy shoes and bring water. Loaner binoculars will be available for those who need them.

Trip will be canceled in the event of heavy rain.

Accessibility: Not ADA accessible. This trip is mostly flat on narrow dirt trails and a paved road. There may be some short steeper sections to get up and down to the beach.

Directions: We will meet at 8:00 AM at the "Enchanted Forest" trail parking lot, also known as the Mussel Beach lot near 22950 Highway 1. The parking lot is north of Fort Bragg, between Church School Lane and Virgin Creek Lane on the west side of Highway 1.