Events
Free Interpretive Walks of the Reserve
Join us on the second and third Sunday of each month, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., for a free interpretive nature walk. You have the opportunity to hear about the amazing plants and wildlife at Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve. Walks are moderately paced on the lower Creek Trail and begin in front of Elfin Forest Interpretive Center Honoring Susan J. Varty.
Al Bates leads walks on the second Sunday of the month, and Sabina Kurz-Sherman leads walks on the third Sunday of the month.
AL BATES
Retired from law enforcement, Al is a native San Diegan and an avid outdoorsman. Al has been trained as an interpretive guide, is a Master Educator for the Leave No Trace Center For Outdoor Ethics and Chaparral Naturalist, and has been a guest speaker for the Sierra Club on the topics of outdoor ethics, backpacking, hiking, and camping. AI currently volunteers on the Reserve’s Trail Patrol and education teams. His talks include local plant and wildlife, how Native Americans and early pioneers used them, and how they still benefit us and provide habitat. Join Al on the second Sunday of every month and witness a rare testimony of EFRR’s life and beauty.
2025 Walks with Al
- November 9
- December 14
2026 Walks
- January 11
- February 8
- March 8
- April 12
- May 10
- June 14
- July 12
- August 9
- September 13
- October 11
- November 8
- December 13
As a professor of biology at San Diego City College since 2006, Sabina has been guiding her students on field trips through a variety of habitats, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak riparian. Since her passion is helping people connect with nature, she is happy to bring her knowledge and experience to EFRR. In her interpretive walks, Sabina balances scientific knowledge with sensory engagement, inspiring her participants toward a deeper awareness and respect for the natural community. Sabina is also certified in yoga instruction and shinrin-yoku, or “Forest Bathing.” She invites you to walk with her on the third Sunday of each month and open your mind and heart to nature.
2025 Walks with Sabina
- November 16
- December 21
2026 Walks
- January 18
- February 15
- March 15
- April 19
- May 17
- June 21
- July 19
- August 16
- September 20
- October 18
- November 15
- December 20
