LARPD Ranger Staff offer public programs, many of which are free! 

You can also subscribe to receive “Valley Wilds,” LARPD Open Space’s monthly newsletter, and be the first to know about interpretive programs or check the LARPD Events Calendar for the current program schedule. 

For more information about Ranger Programs, please call 925-960-2400. 

“Hoot Owl” program

A “Hoot Owl” program is a fun, after-hours walk in Sycamore Grove Park led by LARPD Rangers! As the sun sets, your group learns about nocturnal animals and their adaptations. Participants can touch wings and talons and see taxidermy specimens.

The introductory talk is followed by a one to two-mile hike as twilight transitions to darkness. Along the way, rangers make frequent stops so the group can look and listen for nocturnal creatures and offer fun activities that exercise all five senses to better experience nature at night.

How do I sign up for a Hoot Owl program?

Email the ranger staff at natureprograms@larpd.org with your proposed hike date at least two weeks in advance. Further in advance will ensure more availability! The start time for Hoot Owls is based on when the sun sets so times vary depending on the time of year.

How long is the program and how far will we walk?

Hoot Owls generally last between 1.5 and 2 hours. Most groups walk about one mile at a very relaxed pace. Let the ranger know if you would like a longer hike.

What are the trails like on a Hoot Owl Hike?

Our usual route is on wide, dirt trails with some sections that have loose rock and gravel. This route is not recommended for strollers or wheelchairs. An ADA (paved) route is available upon request.

Plan Ahead

Hoot Owl Hikes are limited to 20 people – this includes kids and adults. You may need to book more than one hike so everyone can attend. We suggest all participants be at least 5 years old. Pets are not allowed. When registering, note which entrance your hike meets at. The Nature Area Entrance does not have restrooms or water fountains. If your hike is at this entrance plan extra time to make a restroom stop at the main park entrance (1051 Wetmore Road) before coming to the nature area.

What to Bring

• Sturdy shoes like hiking boots or tennis shoes. Unless an ADA route is requested, you will be walking on dirt and gravel trails.
• Layers of clothing – when the sun goes down it may get cold, even in the summer.
• Drinking water in a reusable bottle that you can carry with you.

What is NOT Allowed

These items may not be taken on the night hike – you will need to leave these items in your car:

• Flashlights
• Cameras with flashes
• Food
• Walking sticks
• Cell phones

Our Meeting Locations

• Sycamore Grove Park, Nature Area Entrance
• Sycamore Grove Park, Wetmore Road Entrance

Program Fee

Fees are per group, not to exceed 20 participants per group. The non-resident fee is for groups not residing within the city of Livermore.

• Livermore Groups: $205
• Non-resident Groups: $225

There are several fun Special Events planned for this Spring. Review them on the Special Events page.

You can also subscribe to receive “Valley Wilds,” LARPD Open Space’s monthly newsletter to stay informed.

For more information about Ranger Programs, please call 925-960-2400. 

Nature Programs for Groups

Do you have a group interested in a special nature program with the Rangers? 

From Girl Scout and Boy Scout groups working towards badges to special interest groups wanting a guided hike of the park, LARPD Ranger Staff is excited to create a custom program for your group. 

Don't hesitate to contact the Rangers at natureprograms@larpd.org or (925) 960-2400 for information, availability, and pricing.