Ecosystems Explained

What grows at Deer Creek Hills Preserve? Explore California’s unique landscape—a Blue Oak Woodland. On this wildflower grassland your Naturalist will help sharpen your senses as they lead you under the oak canopy pointing out the interconnected world of insects, birds, plants, animals and even the lowly fungi that weave together this amazing ecosystem. Taking you back in time, you’ll discover the bounty Native Americans found on this land. It served as grocery store, pharmacy and Home Depot! Walking the old miner’s water ditch used to wash down hillsides and reroute streambeds, you will see how this terrain has been radically altered impacting what grows here. Finally, come to the present to learn about the working cattle ranch that continues to sustain and change this interconnected natural world.

Docents will scout the week prior to find a particular species to highlight during this hike.

Hike Distance: Three to six miles over uneven terrain with possible small stream crossings.
Clothing: Wear sturdy, closed toe shoes and bring a hiking pole for balance (optional). Dew can make for damp surfaces so if you want to kneel down to get close enough to open up the world beneath your feet, dress accordingly.
Other equipment: An inquiring mind combined with a small magnifying glass or botany loupe, binoculars and camera will increase your enjoyment, but are not required. Bring water and a snack and don’t forget the sunscreen.

VISITORS MUST:

1. Pre-register and pay before 6pm on Friday and
2. Complete a liability waiver before arriving

Donations are vital to maintaining the Preserve and offering public outings. Consider donating online or leaving a few bucks in the donation jar at the registration table. If the fee is a burden please request a fee waiver by emailing info@sacramentovalleyconservancy.og.

We have put procedures and policies in place for the safety of the public, volunteers, and staff. We are only able to offer public hikes/rides and activities if all the following protocols are observed. Thank you for your cooperation.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU REGISTER:

• You must register by 6pm the evening prior, pay the $10 per adult fee, and sign a liability waiver. Registration fees are not refundable but can be transferred to a future outing if you contact us ahead of time. If you plan to attend 8 or more outings (rides or hikes) in the next 12 months, consider purchasing a Season Pass for $75. You will still need to register for each individual outing to reserve a spot.
• The road to access Deer Creek Hills is not paved and requires crossing Crevis Creek. 4WD and higher clearance vehicles are recommended, especially in the spring when there is water in Crevis Creek, but are not required. Visitors who do not want to drive through the creek crossing may choose to park along the shoulder of Latrobe Road, cross on foot, and walk the remaining mile to the trailhead at Eagle Camp Corral. All properties before the creek crossing are private property. Please respect our neighbors. Do not cross gates or climb fences.
• All events are subject to weather conditions. Projected rain, high creek levels, or extremely muddy conditions on the Preserve may cancel the outing. We will do our best to notify registered guests the evening prior via email. In the case of inclement weather please check our online calendar for cancellation postings before you travel to the preserve.
• There is no running water on site. Arrive hydrated and bring plenty of drinking water. Porta-potties are available at the trailhead and serviced every Friday. Bring your own hand sanitizer. Leave No Trace Ethics; Pack It In – Pack It Out.

BEFORE YOU ATTEND:

• Review the information on your confirmation email advising you of what to bring and how to prepare. Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Wearing layers is recommended, wear sturdy closed-toed shoes, and bring a cell phone, snacks and plenty of water.
• If you have any flu-like symptoms or physical injuries, please stay home and join us another time.
• Print and fill out this Liability Waiver and bring it with you. It is recommended that your emergency contact not be someone who is attending with you, just in case you are both injured.

WHAT TO LEAVE HOME:

• Mud and Dirt! Please clean boots, hooves, gear and all tires before coming to the preserve. Managing invasive species costs us thousands each year. Clean gear helps keep the preserve open for recreation.
• Animals. No dogs or pets allowed on the preserve, except working service dogs (please let us know when you register online and check in with a staff member upon your arrival)
• Drones or other remote-controlled gadgets
• Hunting and fishing gear
• Shovels or mining gear (unless tools were specifically requested for a volunteer project you signed up for)
• Dirt bikes and ATVs
• Cigarettes, e-cigarettes, lighters and matches. Smoking is strictly prohibited and fire is a major concern on the Preserve.

WHEN YOU CHECK IN:

• Have your completed Liability Waiver Form
• Utilize our Boot Brush station to help prevent the introduction of invasive species.
• Trails are marked. For your safety and to respect the Preserve, please do not venture off the marked trails or separate from the guided group. Let one of our docents know if you need to stop and rest.

RESOURCES:

• Directions to Deer Creek Hills Preserve
• Adult Release of Liability – please print, complete, and bring with you
• Minor Release of Liability – only required if you are chaperoning minors of which you are NOT a legal guardian
• Visitor FAQ

CANCELLATION POLICY:

Extreme weather, unsafe air quality, rain or flooding on Latrobe Road will close Deer Creek Hills. Registrants will be notified via email and given the option to transfer registration to any future hike that has not hit capacity, or donate fees to stewardship & trail maintenance projects on the Preserve. Registration payments are not refundable. If you have extenuating circumstances or are unable to attend, please contact us as soon as possible for assistance. Ticket transfer requests can be directed to Amy Rodrigues arodrigues@sacramentovalleyconservancy.org

If you have additional questions about outings at Deer Creek Hills, please contact SVC Program Coordinator, Carly Amatisto at (916) 612-3719 or outreach@sacramentovalleyconservancy.org