Hatton Canyon Quest: Birds & Wild Spaces

This field trip explores Hatton Canyon in Carmel, a scenic out-and-back trail following a gentle corridor from Carmel Valley Road north to Canyon Drive. The route passes through diverse habitats—willow thickets, oak woodland, pine-covered slopes, meadow, and chaparral—providing excellent opportunities to observe both resident and seasonal birds.

Depending on the season, we may see Western Bluebirds in open areas, White-crowned and Golden-crowned Sparrows in winter flocks, and vocal residents like California Thrasher. Other wildlife, including deer, coyotes, and bobcats, also inhabit the canyon, though they typically avoid people.

While we won’t cover the entire canyon in one morning, the varied habitat and steady bird activity make this a rewarding outing. We will move at a slow pace to listen for and locate birds. This trip is open to all levels. 

Logistics: We’ll meet at the Lafayette | Bakery & Café, 3659 The Barnyard e22, Carmel, CA 93923. Allow extra time to find the bakery from the parking lot. Public restrooms are available at The Barnyard shopping center. No restrooms are along the trail.

Trip Difficulty: This will be a relatively easy walk along primarily flat ground and adjacent to the river. Some trails will be slightly rocky and uneven. 

Distance: The total distance for this out-and-back walk may be up to 1.5 miles depending on the group.

Leader:  Volunteer Trip Leader and Board Member Fred Hochstaedter

Other: Bring binoculars, a hat, sunscreen, and water, and a desire to learn about our broad range of local ecosystems. Indicate in the registration if you need binoculars. Optional: Download the nature apps Seek by iNaturalist and Merlin Bird ID before the walk.

For more information or questions, please email info@montereyaudubon.org.

Photo of California Thrasher by Bill Hubick