Hoot Owl Sycamore Grove Regional Park, Livermore

Several times a year the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District hosts Ranger-led night hikes and programs. Using your eyes, nose and ears, you will be on the lookout for the nocturnal inhabitants of Sycamore Grove Park. Visit the LARPD website at www.larpd.dst.ca.us, click on the activities button, then click on "Hoot Owl Hikes" for information on the hike itself.

Hike Statistics

Distance: 1 to 1 1/2 miles round trip

Time: Allow about 1 1/2 -2 hours for program and hike

Grade: Flat Suggested

Age: Tiger Cubs, Wolves, and Bears

Livermore Area Parks: Sycamore Grove Regional Park, Livermore, CA Map

Hike Description

As stated in the park rules, this park normally closes at sunset. However, several times a year the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District hosts ranger-led night hikes and programs.

Using your eyes, nose and ears, you will be on the lookout for the nocturnal inhabitants of Sycamore Grove Park. Wear sturdy shoes, dress in dark colors, dress warmly, and be prepared to hike or sit quietly for a time.

Historical and Natural Features

Sycamore Grove Regional Park provides the ideal place to relax and enjoy nature. With approximately 740 acres of park land, Sycamore Grove is a great place to jog, bike, horseback ride along the Arroyo Del Valle, have a picnic, or just be alone. The Park became part of the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District in 1974 when 364 acres of land was purchased from the New York Trap Rock Corporation. An additional 370 acres was acquired in 1999. As an open space park, Sycamore Grove is preserved for nature study and passive recreation.

With many different habitats providing food and shelter, Sycamore Grove is home to many kinds of animals. Wandering among the Park's sycamores, you may be fortunate enough to see a fox, a bobcat, or perhaps a red-tailed hawk soaring overhead. Magpies and bushtits chatter as you stroll along quiet trails. A quiet hiker can sometimes find a great blue heron wading through the river, slowly stalking a fish or frog. you can also find deer, rabbits and hares, ground squirrels, mice, lizards, snakes, turtles, frogs, and a variety of birds and insects in the park.

Administration

Livermore Area Recreation and Park District
4444 East Avenue
Livermore, CA 94550
(925) 373-5700 (General Information)
(925) 960-2400 (Ranger Office)

Suggested Season: Summer