During the first Big River Interpretive Walk season in 2008, over 200 people attended walks including local residents and visitors from as far as Europe and Japan. Many participants experienced Big River for the first time while others learned interesting facts about a place close to their hearts. On a recent drive down to the parking lot where walks begin, I saw a stately egret standing perfectly still just 20 yards off the road. There is definitely plenty to see. And, after you’ve walked the river, you can stroll to Big River Beach to watch the sunset.
Big River Interpretive Walks are free of charge and open to the public. The 2009 Interpretive Walks will occur on the following Saturdays at 10:00 a.m., weather permitting: May 2, May 16, June 6, June 20, July 4, July 18, August 1, August 15, September 5, September 19 and October 3.
Each Interpretive Walk begins at 10:00 a.m. at the Big River Kiosk located at the eastern end of the Big River Beach parking lot south of Mendocino. Walks cover a total of two to four miles, are moderately paced and last for one to two hours. Anyone under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Comfortable walking shoes, water and binoculars are recommended for anyone attending.
This year, ten Big River Docents are returning to share their knowledge with the public. Big River Docents attended five training sessions in 2008 to learn from recognized experts about the special qualities of Big River. Before the start of the 2009 season, the docents had the opportunity to attend two additional training sessions featuring Lance Johansen on Big River local folklore and Skip Wollenberg on the underlying geology of Big River.
