Acorn woodpecker checking its acorn granary. Photo by Brad Barnwell.

KELSEYVILLE, Calif. – On March 5, join park docent Walt Lyon for a walk on the Indian Nature Trail in Clear Lake State Park, 5300 Soda Bay Road, Kelseyville.

Meet at the entrance parking lot at 8:30 a.m. to start the ascent of this intriguing hillside trail that is actually on an ancient volcanic flow. Wear sturdy walking shoes for safety on this trail.

There is no entrance fee to the park for participating in walks. However, rain cancels the walk.

As a very long-term resident, who was here when the park was new, Lyon has always had a close connection with the park. He understands the history of the park and the importance of maintaining it for future generations.

Join Lyon for an inspirational outdoor experience on this trail for all seasons and learn how American Indians used the natural resources along this trail to enrich and sustain their lives.

With seasonal changes rapidly taking place in the park, it is an excellent time to look for new growth emerging from the grasp of winter.

American Indians used many plants along this trail for both medicinal purposes and a food source. One plant that will soon be emerging is the soap root plant. Learn its many uses and find out which plants were used to help catch fish.

The acorn woodpeckers, year-round residents, continue to watch over their fall harvest of acorns stored in granary trees.

At trailside there is a mortar hole where Native Americans prepared acorns as an important part of their diet. Like the woodpeckers, they also stored acorns for year-round use.

The Indian Nature Trail was built in 1959 for a mere $1,000 and has provided park visitors with a great walking experience for 52 years.

Clear Lake State Park Interpretive Association sponsors walks throughout the year. Visit www.clearlakestatepark.org for additional information and photos of Clear Lake State Park.