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Author: jvolino

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Project: Portola Redwoods State Park (main park areas)

Photo Album: 1508 Portola State Park

August 22 had the Trail Center back out at Portola Redwoods State Park for the 2nd of 4 scheduled trips to this beautiful park. Twenty eager volunteers spent a lovely day in the redwoods doing a multitude of tasks including minor brushing and dead tree and stump removal, but tread improvement was the primary focus. The day was a big success as we were able to repair all of the rest of the flagged projects along the Slate Creek Trail up to the saddle before the backpacker's camp. Of course that didn't include work in the several spots that require serious retaining wall structures, but that's what's on tap for the final 2 work days. I was very pleased with the quality of work we accomplished as were the several groups of hikers and backpackers that passed by us during the day. Of particular note were two projects. One was the massive hole that Lewis and others created by removing a large dead log in the trail (think iceberg), and then they had to repair the trail by backfilling. The other was a big snag and narrow spot that Tom worked on by himself for the better part of the afternoon. Both spots are much better and safer thanks to their efforts.

Today was also a special day because we handed out 4 swag items. We celebrated Kent, Alison, and Alex for attaining their "Green Hats" and Theresa for earning her "Green Shirt". Congratulations all! If you want to earn your very own Green Hat, all you have to do is attend 4 trail build events in at least 2 different parks. For a Green Shirt, double your participation to 8 events. It's easy, it's fun, and it's rewarding. And as Hank likes to say, these are items that money can't buy.

A special note of thanks goes out to our wonderful crew leaders Lisa, Judd (still nursing a broken finger), Hank, and Dave T. Also need to thank Lianna for handling a wonderful refreshment hour and Kathy for organizing the volunteers.

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Every November members of the Trail Center gather to scrub, sharpen, wash and paint the tools and equipment we use during the year for our monthly builds.

This fun event combines work, cameraderie, good food and entertainment to accomplish the necessary tasks required to keep our mattocks, McLeods, picks and shovels in top condition.

All Trail Center members are invited to come and participate. The annual meeting and officer elections are held after the tools are put away. The day ends with a special presentation by one of the Trail Center members or a guest speaker.

Location: Palo Alto, California - Annual Tool Party

Directions: From 101 exit west onto Oregon Expressway in Palo Alto. At the third stoplight take a right turn onto Louis and continue to the stop sign. Make a left turn onto Northern California, and take the first right onto Barbara Drive.

From 280 and Page Mill Expressway, head east to Oregon Expressway. After crossing El Camino, head about 4 or 5 blocks to Middlefield Avenue and take a left turn. Head north on Middlefield about two blocks and take a right turn onto Northern California, which is at the corner of Jordan School. Head east on Northern California past Newell and then make a left on Barbara Drive, which ends by Stratford School.

The location is 2019 Barbara Drive, Palo Alto, California. Contact Hank Magnuski (650) 714-2409 for more information.

Agency: Trail Center

Supervisor: Dave Croker

Project Lead: Hank Magnuski

Additional Information: Bring work gloves, rags, electric drills with brush attachments (if you have such equipment), high spirits, good stories and some friends.

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Portola Redwoods has a rugged, natural basin forested with Coast Redwoods, Douglas Firs and Live Oaks. There are eighteen miles of trails, a 53 site campground, four group campsites and two beautiful creeks, the Pescadero and Peter''s Creek, that run throughout the park.

The Sequoia Nature Trail, which leads to the Pescadero Creek, introduces visitors to the natural history of the area.

Visitors should come prepared for any type of weather. The park receives between 40 and 60 inches of rain per year and the summer months can be foggy and cool. Layered clothing is recommended at any time of the year.

Location: Portola Redwoods State Park, San Mateo County, California - Slate Creek and Summit Trails

Directions: From Highway 35, turn west onto Alpine Road, go 3 miles, and turn (bear left) onto Portola State Park Road. The road dead ends in the park. Use low gear as both these roads are steep and winding.

Due to mountain roads, expect a 1 1/2 to 2 hour drive from most Bay Area locations. There is no gasoline available at or near the park. There is no store in or near the park.

Agency: California State Parks - Chris Pereira, Supervising Ranger

Supervisor: TBD

Project Lead: Judd Volino

Additional Information: Participants should bring water, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, lunch and normal precautions against poison oak exposure (work gloves, long sleeved shirts and long pants). The Trail Center provides tools, training, gloves, and refreshments after the workday.

Assemble at 8:30 a.m. for our safety talk and crew assignments. Work begins at 9:00 a.m.

Park Home Page (external link)