Santa Cruz Parks - Activity Guide - Summer 2024

18 • Parks, Open Space & Cultural Services Nature Appreciation and Mindfulness During this 4 week session, we will practice mindfulness, grounding, and breath work while sitting and walking in nature. Practicing the cultivation of mindful moments and finding awe in the little and big may decrease anxiety, depression, and pain, and may increase connection, generosity, and overall well-being. SEASCAPE COUNTY PARK - AGES 18 & UP M 9/9-9/30 1:30–2:30pm Free Introduction to Birding Learn the basics of bird identification through sight and sound, using books, some technology, and our best guesses! We will do a combination of hiking and walking at a di†erent park or outdoor space every week. We will provide binoculars, or you bring your own! Smartphone apps Merlin Bird ID and/or iNaturalist suggested but not required. Participants must be able to hike up to 2 hours. 10/2: SIMPKINS FAMILY SWIM CENTER 10/9: QUAIL HOLLOW RANCH 10/16: PINTO LAKE COUNTY PARK 10/23: TBD W 8:30–10:30am Ages: 18+ Free INTERPRETIVE & OUTDOOR EDUCATION PROGRAMS Nature Walk Do you have a hard time telling the di†erence between poison oak and other plants? Have you ever wondered what animal made those tracks or sounds? Join us on a guided hike as we learn about the animals, plants, and habitats at Pinto Lake County Park. Participants must be able to hike up to 1 ½ hours. *Open to ages 6 and up; an adult must accompany ages 15 & under. Space is limited for this free activity. PINTO LAKE COUNTY PARK – AGES 6 AND UP* Tu 10/29 3:30–5pm Free Tu 11/5 3:30–5pm Free Tu 11/12 3:30–5pm Free Tu 11/19 3:30–5pm Free Mushroom Mondays Finding the Fungus Among Us Learn about fascinating fungi and the basics of mushroom identification; just looking, not eating! An adult must accompany ages 15 & under. Space is limited for this free activity. APTOS VILLAGE COUNTY PARK – AGES 8 AND UP* M 11/18 3:30 4:30pm Free M 11/25 3:30 4:30pm Free M 12/2 3:30 4:30pm Free M 12/9 3:30-4:30pm Free Like us on Facebook: Santa Cruz County Parks Department We’re on Instagram: Santa Cruz County Parks Follow us on X @SCParksDept