Newts traverse many obstacles to mate
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April NelsonLike
The immaculate bay views from the summit
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JaneLike
Trekking (Wholesomely) With Tilden's Sexed-Up Newts in Orinda, California
Ducks, turtles, and people aren’t the only ones attracted to the water in Tilden Regional Park; amphibious California newts hike from the forest across the road to Wildcat Creek every winter to mate and lay gelatinous egg clusters in their birth waters. The lizard-like creatures’ poisonous, slimy skin protects them from predators and fire but not from cars on South Park Drive, which closes from November 1 through April 1 for their annual migration. Spot them crossing the road, or look closer for their brown, camouflaged bodies in shallow waters or crawling over sticks and leaves in the woods. Let the newts’ trek inspire you to hike one of Tilden’s many trails or return in summer to swim (but not mate) in Lake Anza.
Tucked within the verdant folds of Tilden Regional Park is a delightful secret that only a select few - the majority of them savvy parents - know about. Literally ensconced in the hills of the expansive park (where Grizzly Peak Blvd. and Lomas Cantadas meet), listen very closely and you just might hear the gentle bellow of Tilden Park's very own steam train. Powered by a steam engine, this compact "kids'" version of an honest-to-goodness "adult" train has all the bells and whistles the kid in me could ever hope for. With covered and open-air seating for at least two scores of folks (especially of the pint-sized variety), the Redwood Valley Railway effortlessly transports its riders, young and old, to a place we all want to go - the oft-sought, seldom-discovered joy of feeling like a kid again. Open every weekend during the spring, you'll have numerous chances to climb on board - and experience a one-of-a-kind joy-ride you never knew you missed.
Ducks, turtles, and people aren’t the only ones attracted to the water in Tilden Regional Park; amphibious California newts hike from the forest across the road to Wildcat Creek every winter to mate and lay gelatinous egg clusters in their birth waters. The lizard-like creatures’ poisonous, slimy skin protects them from predators and fire but not from cars on South Park Drive, which closes from November 1 through April 1 for their annual migration. Spot them crossing the road, or look closer for their brown, camouflaged bodies in shallow waters or crawling over sticks and leaves in the woods. Let the newts’ trek inspire you to hike one of Tilden’s many trails or return in summer to swim (but not mate) in Lake Anza.
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