RANGER WALKS
The Violent Past of Mineral King
This Saturday, come meet the violent past of Mineral King with historian
Louise Jackson. She will lead an exciting walk up the Nature Trail about deep
oceans, ruptured lands, volcanoes, glaciers and avalanches. Bring plenty of
water and sun protection. There will be some mud along the trail.
Meet at the at the Ranger Station (1 ½ hours)
Tremendous Trees, Invaluable Forests
Atwell Mill is the only campground in the parks where one can sleep under the
largest trees in the word. Learn to identify the Giant Sequoia and its neighbors
while discovering the history of the old mill.
Meet at the Atwell Campground Entrance Sign (1 hour)
Wildflower Sensations
We think of flowers and plants as things to see, and occasionally smell. What we forget is that the flora around us can be experienced through our other senses as well. Come smell, feel and even hear the forgotten aspects of nature as we venture up the Nature Trail.
Above the Snowline
Snowfalls have shaped the Mineral King
Valley across the centuries. Living in a glacial valley characterized by
avalanches, ice and heavy snowfalls, the plants and animals of the Sierra Nevada
have adapted to the harsh conditions, allowing them to bounce back spring after
spring. Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes.
Meet at the Mineral King Ranger
Station (1 hour and 30 minutes)
Hidden in the Dark
Flying squirrels are elusive to humans, but play a vital role in mixed
conifer forests. During this evening stroll realize how a squirrel’s
relationship to a hidden forest treasure supports an ecosystem.
Meet at the Atwell Mill Campground Entrance Sign (1 hour)
RANGER TALKS
Underground Adventures
Exotic and unseen, caves are rarely visited time capsules that preserve the
hidden treasures found within. During this evening program discover how three
Sequoia Park caves were discovered, utilized and protected.
Silver City Resort (1 hour)
What’s for Dinner, Animal Kingdom?
Have you ever wondered what food animals survive on? Join the ranger for an eye-opening activity concerning what animals eat in this glorious environment and explore our own reliance upon the web of life.
Ranger Station Campfire Circle (20 minutes)A Night with the Stars
Humans have used the night sky as a way to find
direction for themselves, both spiritually and physically. Join the ranger for
an evening of constellation finding and understanding our connection to the
brilliant night sky.
Sawtooth Parking lot (45 minutes)
The Bear Menu
Learn what it’s like to see the world as a bear does, as
a richly scented menu where every action is in pursuit of the next meal.
Meet at the Atwell Mill Campground Entrance Sign (20
minutes)
Bighorns, Birds, & the GLORIA Project
Even with almost 900,000 acres in the parks, wildlife still needs our help. Every day scientists are working behind the scenes to find out which species are struggling. Come explore what it’s like to be a park ecologist and see how they are strengthening the shrinking alpine ecosystem.
DROP-IN OPEN HOUSE
Grace Alles Cabin
The Alles Cabin is located just below Atwell Mill Campground.
It is the "house in the middle of the road." Come visit the cabin and experience
the lifestyle of a woman who shared her hospitality with anyone who ventured
into these mountains.
1/3 Mile West of Atwell Mill Campground, Green Parking Sign will be Posted (4
hours)