New Melones Lake
Credit: USBR
March 20, 2018 - SONORA, Calif. – From wildflower hikes to nighttime stargazing, Bureau of Reclamation’s rangers at New Melones Lake have a wealth of great spring activities planned. Programs are free; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants should wear sturdy shoes, weather appropriate clothing and bring water, snacks and sunscreen. For reservations or information, contact Ranger Mike McGraw at 209-536-9094 ext. 233, or email mmcgraw@usbr.gov. Please arrange for alternative accommodations 14 days in advance of a program.
Table Mountain Trek, Table Mountain, Sunday, March 25 and Saturday, April 7, 10 a.m.
Will winter rains reveal a kaleidoscope of flowers and replenished vernal pools? Join park rangers and explore the unique habitat and geology of Table Mountain. This is a challenging 3-mile hike to the top with grand views of New Melones Lake and the surrounding area. Meet at Shell and Rawhide Roads.
New Melones Dam, New Melones Lake Dam Overlook Saturday, March 31; Sunday, April 15; Saturday May 5; Sunday, May 20, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
This spring, the dam overlook gate will be open four weekend days. A park ranger will answer questions about the dam and history of New Melones Lake. The overlook is off of Old Melones Dam Rd./Peoria Flat Rd., which can be reached by taking O’Byrnes Ferry Rd. from Hwy 108.
Peoria Mountain, Saturday, April 14, 10 a.m.
Enjoy fantastic views of the Stanislaus River Canyon and New Melones Lake while breathing in the fresh air of the Mother Lode. This is a challenging 4-mile loop hike to the top of Peoria Mountain. The hike begins at the end of Old Melones Dam Rd./Peoria Flat Rd., which can be reached by taking O’Byrnes Ferry Rd. from Hwy 108.
Angels Creek Trail CLEAN UP, Sunday, April 22, 10 a.m.
Celebrate Earth Day with a hike on the Angels Creek Trail and learn what plants and animals can be found at New Melones Lake. Participants will help pick up trash along the trail. Meet in the Glory Hole Entrance Station and caravan to the Angels Creek Trailhead. Participants will be issued a parking pass for the event.
Heron Point Hike, Tuttletown Recreation Area, Saturday, April 28, 10 a.m.
Discover what nature has to offer on a fresh spring day along Heron Point Trail. Enjoy a leisurely 3-mile hike. Participants will be issued a parking pass for the event. Meet at Tuttletown Entrance Station.
A Night with Jupiter, Eagle Point Picnic Area, Tuttletown Recreation Area, Wed., May 9, 8 p.m.
Contact Diana Popkins, 209-536-9094 ext. 218, dpopkins@usbr.gov
The solar system’s largest planet, Jupiter, will be at its closest approach to earth and its surface fully illuminated by the sun. Learn what the night sky reveals, including how to identify prominent constellations and stars. Telescopes are available.
Kayaking Excursion, New Melones Lake Visitor Center, Sat., May 12, and Sat., June 2, 10 a.m.
Contact Josh Pelham, 209-536-9094 ext. 236, jpelham@usbr.gov
Experience the beauty of New Melones Lake on this ranger-led paddling tour. The journey begins at the Mark Twain Recreation Area and proceeds up the Stanislaus River Canyon toward Parrotts Ferry. Park rangers will discuss the flora, fauna, geological formations, and cultural history of the area. Participants should be experienced swimmers, bring their own kayak or other non-motorized boat, paddles, and U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket (properly fitted and serviceable). Pre-registration required.
Natural Bridges, Saturday, May 19, 10 a.m.
The Mother Lode’s geology is an endless source of fascination. One of the more curious geological features of the area is Natural Bridges. Learn about the local flora and fauna, and how water and time have shaped the landscape. Moderate to strenuous, 2-mile hike. Meet in the Natural Bridges Trailhead parking lot. Dogs are not allowed on Natural Bridges Trail.
School Programs Available Upon Request, 209-536-9543
Water Is Life!
School classes join a park ranger to learn about water and other life-sustaining natural resources. Through interactive lessons, students will gain a first-hand appreciation of local ecosystems at New Melones Lake. Park rangers are also available for classroom visits.
Mussel Outreach Programs, contact Sam Sosa, 209-536-9094 ext. 221 or ssosa@usbr.gov.
Invasive Quagga and Zebra mussels can overwhelm aquatic environments by their sheer numbers. They pose one of the greatest threats to New Melones Lake, impeding dam operations and impacting recreation, especially boating and fishing. Keeping New Melones Lake mussel-free is an ongoing challenge. Reclamation staff are available to visit schools, civic functions or other outreach opportunities.
The New Melones Lake Visitor Center and Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information, please call 209-536-9543 (TTY 800-877-8339) or http://www.usbr.gov/mp/ccao/newmelones/index.html.
Source: BOR