NOTE CHANGE IN LOCATION of this hike to Montaña de Oro State Park. We will hike the Rattlesnake Trail to observe the local endemic Pecho manzanita (Arctostaphylos pechoensis) then complete a loop on the Coon Creek Trail to see the unique riparian woodland as well as the brittle leaf manzanita (A. crustacea). This hike is 3.5 miles with a 600-feet elevation gain and should last 3 hours.
Park at the Coon Creek parking area which is at the farthest south dead end of Pecho Valley Rd in Montaña de Oro State Park (35.258068, -120.886966). Bring hat, sturdy shoes, water, snacks, and dress in layers for changing weather.
Plant lists for Montaña De Oro State Park can be found at the Finding Plants in the Wild page of our website.
Rain or threat of rain cancels. Because of access changes at PG&E Pecho Ranch, we needed to move the hike location to this nearby area in Montaña de Oro State Park.