UC Davis Arboretum Trail Hike
Tuesday, February 28, 2017

DIFFICULTY: Easy

ELEVATION GAIN:  Couple slight climbs during the hike.

HIKE DISTANCE: Approx 3.5 mile loop around the arboretum grounds.

GENERAL LOCATION: On the campus of UC Davis.

DESCRIPTION:  This will be a leisurely <2 hour hike on the trail that winds peacefully along the remnants of Putah Creek.  When Putah Creek was diverted in 1870, what remained was an abandoned oxbow which anchors the trail.  The arboretum was started in 1936 to feature plants native to California that have low water requirements.  It also preserved 400 year old Valley Oaks.  In 1941, coast redwoods were planted which required hand watering by students.  More than 4,000 plants and flowers from around the world are on display in 18 collections.  The surface is mostly cracked asphalt or concrete with some minor areas of bare ground.  Numerous placards identify much of the flora but our time will be limited to two hours total elapsed time due to parking restrictions. This presents an opportunity to come back at another time for a leisurely stroll.

TRAVEL TIME/DISTANCE: Travel time is approximately 50 minutes with no heavy traffic.  The distance is 43 miles each way.   Suggested donation to the driver is $7. Generally, visitor parking at the west end is $8 during the week and free on weekends.  We will be parking in a free area which is restricted to 2 hours.  We expect to return to Lincoln Hills by 2:00 PM.

HIKE LEADER/SWEEP: Vern Luke/Volunteers Solicited

FACILITIES AVAILABLE: Public toilets near the Oak Grove at the half way point where we will have a short comfort/snack break.

PREPARATION FOR HIKE: Refer to Standard Hiking Equipment Guidelines for Hiking in the “Hiking Club Guidelines and Forms” on the website. 

1) If you have any health issues, consider your condition before hiking.
2) Bring a copy of your ID (driver's license), health card, and an emergency contact name and phone number with you on the hike.
3) Always bring 2 pairs of shoes, along with a suitable bag to store your muddy/dusty hiking boots after the hike.
4) Bring lunch or a snack and water. Trekking poles are not necessary for this hike.
5) Please remember to stay behind the hike leader and ahead of the sweep during the hike.

RISKS: Mostly the drive to Davis, particularly the construction area north of Sacramento on I-80.  On the trail, we will cross a road twice and make our way against the traffic on a lightly traveled road for a short way.  As always, watch your footing.

QUESTIONS: Call Vern with questions at 253.3711

 Heavy rain on hike day will cancel hike.  Check the website the morning of the hike if questionable.

MEETING TIME:  9:45 am at Orchard Creek. We leave at10 am sharp to miss most of the commute traffic.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS