Lost Lake Park Audubon Trail

By Doug Morse

If you are looking for a break from the city but can't get away for an extended camping trip, take heart! There are some wonderful places to get away from it all without having to burn a full tank of gas! With only a few minutes drive from Fresno you can find peace and quiet and the chance to be close to Nature.

The Fresno Audubon Society has established a very easy trail that is ideal for birding and just getting out of the city for a break. The trail is suitable for anyone capable of a short walk. Walkers will see a fine example of the native riparian environment along the banks of the San Joaquin River.

The trail starts in Lost Lake Park which is just a few miles north of Fresno off of Friant Road. The trailhead is at the far southwest end of the picnic area. There is ample parking. The trail itself splits and then reconnects with itself as it meanders along the bank of the river. The footpaths are easy to see. The entire trail is only a mile or so long. It is hemmed in by a high bank on the left, the river on the right and an almost impassible stretch at the end. It is nearly impossible for anyone to get lost here.

About a quarter mile below the parking area is a large outcropping of granite. On the top of this rock are several hollowed out holes. These were reportedly used by local Native Americans as grinding holes for grinding acorns to make flour. Today this stone makes a fine place to rest and simply watch the river flow by. You will certainly see ducks in the river. You might be rewarded with a glimpse of deer working their way along the other bank. Another time you might see a bald eagle perched on a bare branch of one of the tall trees on the hillside above.

Following one of the many paths downstream further you will find thickets of scrub oak and blackberries. The entire area is shaded by tall oaks and other native trees. The key to this walk is to slow down and take your time. Remember that you are looking at an environment that hasn't been altered much by modern man.

To return to your car you may follow one of the paths you didn't use coming downstream. You may also choose to follow one of the several paths that lead up the high bank alongside the river. This is a brisk but short climb. Once on top you will see Lost Lake below you. Here you will almost always see a large variety of water fowl and some shorebirds. Follow the paved road back to the picnic area and then down to your car.

Supplies suggested include a good pair of shoes, a water bottle and perhaps some snacks. A Field Guide to native plants could be helpful. I always bring binoculars and a bird book (Sibley's or Peterson's are both excellent).

Birds you might see include Bald Eagle, Golden Eagle, Red Tail Hawk, American Kestrel, White Tailed Kite, Rough Legged Hawk, Acorn Woodpecker, Red Shafted Flicker, Killdeer, Dark Eyed (Oregon) Junco, Meadowlark, Mergansers (Common and Hooded), Mallard, Teal (green winged and cinnamon), Great Blue Heron, Egret, Night Heron, Canada Goose, Great Horned Owl, Barn Owl, and many others. Contact the Fresno Audubon Society website at http://www.fresnoaudubon.org for a complete listing of birds that have been sighted in the area.

The San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust offers canoeing trips, educational materials, camps, and other activities intended to enhance public awareness and appreciation for this beautiful area. They are working on behalf of everyone in our community to set aside land for a continuous greenway along the river. When completed this greenway will follow the entire 22 mile stretch of river from Friant to the Highway 99 bridge. For further information about activities and their efforts visit their website at http://www.riverparkway.org or call them at (559) 248-8480 for a brochure.

It is a nice area to visit at any time of the year. Like most of our valley, each season has it's own unique beauty. The best time of year for birding is during the cooler months when the trees are out of leaf. Exercise some care though, if you are considering a trip in the winter or spring months when large quantities of water are being released from Friant Dam as the area may not be safe at those times.

The Lost Lake Park entrance is about 1/2 mile before you enter the town of Friant on Friant Road. The entrance is well marked and there is a small store nearby. Entry fee is $3.00 per car, or you may purchase a season pass for around $25.00. General maintenance of the grounds is good. I do not recommend the use of the restrooms as their maintenance is on a par with most County Parks.

If you are hungry or thirsty the store near the park entry can meet the need for snacks. There is a more complete grocery store in the town of Friant. The Dam Diner in nearby Friant serves a good breakfast at reasonable prices.