Natural History Walks and Talks

Summer 2026 Schedule of Tours

We will continue to update the schedule for our 2026 season here.

Come visit one of the crown jewels of the UC Nature network of reserves, normally closed to the public. Our walks and talks are docent-led, interpretive hikes and they move at a naturalists’ pace. You will learn about flora, fauna, geology, history, and more as you immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this beautiful landscape of Valentine Reserve. Our experienced docent guides can accommodate a diversity of abilities. Interested in bringing kids? Ask us about family tours!

Tours are offered throughout the summer, and we ask you to register in advance as each tour is limited to 10 people. Registration does not secure your spot. A staff member will follow up to confirm registration, coordinate payment, and sign waivers. Please see individual listings for more information, as some offerings may be different.

Adults $15

Children Under 12 Free

Proceeds from our walks and talks support our outdoor science education programs for local school children of Inyo and Mono County.

Please Contact Emily Zujewski at ezujewski@ucsb.edu with any questions

Plein Air Painting with Annie Barrett

Monday, October 5th

1:00pm – 4:00pm

Paint among the fall colors at Valentine Reserve! While not an art lesson, this is a unique opportunity to connect with fellow artists as you immerse yourself in the beauty of the changing seasons of the Eastern Sierra.

Spots are limited. Registration required. $15 per person.

Please note: This form is to hold your place in registration and is not a confirmation.

A staff member will reach out to confirm your spot in line, coordinate payment, and sign waivers after submittal.

Herbal Medicine Workshop at SNARL with Dr. Rebecca Lyons

Saturday, October 10

9:30am – 12:00pm

Sierra Nevada Aquatic Research Laboratory (SNARL)

$25 per person. Registration required. Spots are limited.

As the Sierra Nevada turns toward fall, gather in the high desert to make a little mountain medicine of your own. In this hands-on class, we’ll forage the traditions of the season, crafting herbal decoctions made from local plants, deep, earthy, and meant to warm the belly and support the body as the days grow colder. This is mountain medicine, not molecular gastronomy. We’ll use good plants, good ingredients, and a little curiosity to make something delicious and useful with our own two hands. Everything you need is provided! So pull up a seat and spend a morning making something with the plants of the Sierra and the people who love this place.

Please note: This form is to hold your place in registration and is not a confirmation.

A staff member will reach out to confirm your spot in line, coordinate payment, and sign waivers after submittal.