Take wing on a nature hike to view the cliffs and caves of Castle Rock—nesting site of the Peregrine Falcon, the fastest animal on Earth! In 1950, Peregrine Falcons disappeared from these cliffs, victims of DDT. The birds were reintroduced to Castle Rock in 1989 and have done well, but now face new challenges. As we view the falcons from the canyon below, Mount Diablo Peregrine team leader Staci Hobbet will describe the fascinating natural history of these apex predators.

We'll also be on the lookout for spring wildflowers, including the rare and endemic Mount Diablo Globe Lily. Wally De Young and Ken Lavin will lead us along the historic Stage Road up Pine Canyon and past the enigmatic "China Wall" of Mount Diablo.

This is a moderate hike of about 5 miles with several hundred feet in elevation change. There is an option for an easier 2-mile hike over mostly level terrain. Rain cancels.

Sponsored by California State Parks and Greenbelt Alliance