Point Reyes Peninsula is a time capsule of geologic events that left marks on the land as it moved along the faults of the San Andreas tectonic boundary.

Investigate the rocks of Point Reyes to piece together the tectonic history and geologic evolution of the North American west coast as we view the way the land has layered and bent under the immense pressures of faults, rivers, volcanic eruptions, sea level fluctuation, and climate changes. Discover how the rocks of Point Reyes are related to those of the Sierra Nevadas, learn about the fossils that are buried within the layered peninsula, and consider how Point Reyes will continue to evolve into the future.

Our geologic exploration will include an approximately 4-mile walk along the trails to the Point Reyes Lighthouse and Chimney Rock, and we will experience an elevation gain of about 500 feet. No prior experience needed.

Nicole Myers, M.S. in Geological Sciences, developed a passion for understanding Earth from a childhood fascination with rocks and volcanoes. Following years of volcanic eruption dynamics research, in 2007 Nicole chose to focus on teaching others to appreciate planet Earth at Sonoma State University (SSU), Santa Rosa Junior College, and College of Marin where she has taught lecture & field classes on every Earth Science subject, and in 2020 she started her own business, Appreciating Earth, to share her passion with the community.

Photo Credit: Bill Helsel, used with permission

Details

-We will be meeting at the Point Reyes Lighthouse Parking Lot

– Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to check in

– Refunds available for all classes 7 days in advance of the start date, after 7 days and before 2 days, participants can credit their class for a future date. All requests before 48 hours in advance will be declined. For COVID policy, see below.

– Please follow the parking instructions for the facility used that day

– Please provide an email you check regularly for updates and reminders about your class

– Registration is required online prior to the event in order to maintain class sizes

– Sales end 48 hours before the start date.

– Waitlists are available when the class sells out

What to Bring

Trekking poles if desired (optional)

Day Pack

Lunch

Warm Variable Weather Clothing

Hiking Shoes

Water Bottle

Notebook and Pen/Field Journal

Eventbrite Confirmation Email

Binoculars (Optional)

Camera (Optional)

About the PRNSA Field Institute

The PRNSA Field Institute offers hands-on environmental education classes throughout the year that foster enjoyment of Point Reyes National Seashore. Our classes are led by expert instructors, who take you out of your everyday life and into the natural world. We host a variety of classes about the arts and sciences and have something for everyone. You can reach the Field Institute at (415) 663-1200 x304 or by email at fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org.

Interested in becoming a member of PRNSA? Click Here!

Interested in becoming a PRNSA Field Institute volunteer facilitator, or are you an outdoor educator or artist who would like to teach a PRNSA Field Institute class? Send an Email!

For any questions, please email us at fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org.

COVID-19 Field Institute Guidelines

Please respect the following COVID-19 procedures:

· Perform a health self-check before coming to class using the CDC Symptoms of Coronavirus as a guide

· Do not attend class if you are experiencing COVID symptoms, know that you have had a close exposure, or are suffering from any flu-like or respiratory illness

· Contact the Field Institute if you will not be able to attend due to COVID. You may be eligible to receive a full or partial refund

· Participants exhibiting signs of respiratory illness may be asked to leave class

· Masks are optional at your discretion

· Please bring your own food and water

All guidelines are subject to change pursuant to State or County Health order updates.

Thank you for your cooperation in following these guidelines to help keep everyone safe.