Get out there and have fun

It's only open to the public a handlful of days a year, so take advantage of next week's full schedule of hikes and lectures at the Valentine Reserve in Old Mammoth. Once a private mountain retreat, the reserve is now owned by the University of California.

All proceeds from the events go to the Outdoor Science Education Program to teach science classes to the children of Inyo and Mono Counties. Programs run from 9:30am to 12:30pm. Particpants meet at the gates to the reserve (on Old Mammoth Rd) and should bring comfortable walking attire, a snack and water. Donations are $15; reserve one of the limited spots by calling Leslie Dawson at 935-4356.

Living History-Los Angeles to Valentine Camp in the 1920’s July 27

In the 1920’s some of the most influential men of Los Angeles left the city once a year and came to Valentine Camp to hike and fish. Join Old Timer Ken Irvine as he talks about this period. Ken lives in the posh Alexandria Hotel and frequently lunches at the

California Club with William Mulholland. He is acquainted with William Valentine (Robinson’s Department Store), Henry O’Melveney (law), William Kerchoff (Southern California Gas), and Joseph Sartori (Security Pacific Bank). Ken is invited to be their guest in 1924 at Valentine Camp. Ken will tell stories about Los Angeles, Old Mammoth, and life with the rich and powerful at Valentine Camp. The group will walk in the Valentine entrance road and around the historic log cabins.

Introduction to the Wildflowers of Valentine Reserve
July 31, August 2 (same talk each day)

Every plant has a story, or a native use, and learning a plant’s story is often a key to helping remember its name. If you are looking for a fun way to learn many local wildflowers by common name this is your class. Led by Leslie Dawson, the class will hike through five distinct plant communities, and the dominant species found in each community will be described. This class is a wonderful opportunity to spend time walking around the spectacular Valentine Meadow. The hike is moderate, with a 500’ elevation gain. Bring water, hat, sunscreen and a snack.

Black Bears

August 1
While walking through Black Bear forest habitat you will see bear scratched trees, a bear den and occasionally bear tracks. Learn how bears survive in the forest, and how Mammoth Lakes is managing their bear population.