DESCRIPTION: This year we have a unique opportunity to experience the Tall Forest at the Cosumnes River Preserve., A well-known field ornithologist will lead you deep into one of the finest riparian habitats left in California. There you will see a rich variety of up to 90 resident and seasonal bird species. Since this is an early-morning tour, you may also see beaver, river otter, striped skunk, raccoon, coyote, squirrels, deer and other animals. In spots the paths are nothing more than animal traces, so dress prepared to push through the underbrush and berry thickets. This tour is appropriate for people who are sure-footed and able to walk several miles. Rubber knee boots are recommended because it is likely to be muddy and wet. Serious birders will not want to miss this tour because the Tall Forest is generally closed to the public. Rain or shine, this will be an experience to remember.
TIME: 5:20 – 11:00 a.m.
NOTE: DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME ENDS SATURDAY NIGHT. All tours begin and end at the corner of Desmond and Bruceville Roads.
DIRECTIONS TO THE TOUR: The Cosumnes River Preserve is located on Franklin Road, which is East and parallel to Interstate 5. Take the Walnut Grove/Thornton exit on Interstate 5, turn left, then left onto Franklin Road. Half a mile beyond the Visitor Center, turn right on Desmond Road and cross the railroad tracks. Travel one mile to the corner of Desmond and Bruceville Roads. Meet your guide at the locked gate. NOTE: Franklin Road between the CRP visitor center and Twin Cities Road may be closed for bridge repair.
LANDS PASS : No Lands Pass is required for this tour
OTHER TOURS THAT MAY BE OF INTEREST: You may be interested in knowing that other Sandhill Crane tours are available during the fall and winter. For more information about California Department of Fish and Wildlife tours during the season go to this CDFW website. For information about Sandhill Crane tours through the Cosumnes River Preserve, click here.
TICKETS:
Adult: $30.00
Book this tour beginning September 3, 2024
Tours available for purchase beginning September 3, 2024
REGISTER ONLINE: September 3 – October 26, 2024
NOTE: Tour guides will receive a list of customers who have registered by October 27, 2024.
LATE REGISTRATION: Customers who register online after October 26 must present a hard copy or phone displaythe email receipt to their tour guide at the time of the tour.
REGISTRATION AT THE FESTIVAL: Unsold tickets will be available during the festival and can be purchased on this website.
This map can be used to search for the best route to your tour from your current location. Drive time from Hutchins Street Square in Lodi, California to this tour is approximately 30 minutes.
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
WHERE AND WHEN TO MEET YOUR GUIDE: Check in with your guide by 5:10 a.m. The tour will begin shortly. The gate will be locked as soon as the tour begins.
NOTE: DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME ENDS SATURDAY NIGHT
QUESTIONS REGARDING REGISTRATION: Contact the Registration Coordinator at tours@lodisandhillcrane.org or leave a message at (800) 581-6150. Notify the Registration Coordinator in advance if special accommodations are needed. Expect a response from the Coordinator within the week.
TOURS TAKE PLACE RAIN OR SHINE.
Cancellation Policy: Full refunds (minus a 3% processing fee) are available prior to a tour upon the customer’s request at tours@lodisandhillcrane.org. A full refund is automatically issued for any events cancelled by the festival organizers.
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