Additional Information for teachers and group leaders
The
best time to schedule arrival at the park is 10 a.m. This will allow sufficient time to
tour the park in time for a picnic lunch around
There
are two picnic areas: One area is in
the “lower” parking lot near the museum (left turn upon entering park); the
other is on a little knoll near the “upper” parking lot (right turn upon
entering park).
Docent
Led
Hikes to the Wolf House, the Beauty Ranch and to the lake are normally led by
docents. All hikes also include a
visit to the museum.
We
schedule one docent for each group of 15 – 20 students and adults.
Occasionally, a shortage of docents may result in larger groups. The
teacher in charge of the group should be prepared to divide the group into
sub-groups as directed by the docents.
Unless
otherwise arranged, docents will meet the group in the “lower” parking lot
(left turn upon entering the park). There
are rest rooms near the parking lot. Since
the typical tour will last more than 90 minutes with only limited access to rest
rooms, visitors may want to use the rest rooms upon arrival.
Upon
arrival, the teacher in charge should meet with the docents and provide the
following information:
-
The amount of time available – when are you planning to leave;
-
How much preparation have the students had before the visit;
what have they read; what
specific information would the teacher like to have discussed.
Safety.
The park is generally very safe. However, visitors should be aware that there are two potential dangers in the park:
- Rattlesnakes can be found throughout the park. When a snake is encountered, children become quite interested and tend to get too close. Any snake should be left undisturbed and be given a wide berth. Although snakes may be seen crossing or sunning on trails, they will generally be found in grassy areas, on rocks or near rock walls. They should not be disturbed. If a snake is found in an area where students are having a picnic, notify a ranger to have the snake safely removed.
- Poison Oak is prevalent in shady areas near trails. All parts of the plant, including dropped leaves, can cause a severe rash and should not be touched.
Sometimes, children arrive at the park worried about bears, mountain lions and other animals perceived to be dangerous. They should be assured that such animals, although they do occur in the park, are quite shy and will not be encountered.
Most safety issues can be avoided by encouraging visitors to remain on the trails.
Special Requirements.
The Beauty Ranch and the Wolf House hikes are approximately 1 1/2 miles or more over hilly terrain. The hike to the lake is approximately 2 miles. During the summer months, the park can get quite hot and it is advisable to carry water.
If the group includes any students or adults with physical
limitations, a golf cart may be requested in advance, which may transport up to
three people. The golf cart can not go to the lake.
Weather.
Our
docents are prepared to lead tours, rain or shine.
If you plan to cancel a docent-led tour, please notify the park at
707-938-5216 as soon as possible. If
the tour is cancelled on the morning of the tour, call Al Stumpf at 707-575-8084
as early as possible.
Park
Rules.
Students
should be advised in advance of certain park rules:
All plants and animals in the park are protected and may not be
disturbed.
During the hike, students should not walk or run ahead of the docent.
It is desirable to have an adult bring up the rear to prevent any
students from being left behind or getting lost.
Students should not run in the park.
Some sections of trail are gravelly or otherwise slippery.
Students should stay on the trails.
Getting
into the grassy areas may expose the students to hidden rattlesnakes, to poison
oak, or to ticks.
Artifacts, display cases and other objects in the museum and the cottage are protected and should not be touched or used as desks or storage.
Discipline.
Student groups should provide one adult for every ten students. Maintaining
orderly student conduct is the responsibility of
the adults accompanying the student group.
Students should be attentive to the docents and respect the rights of
other park visitors.
Resources.
A brief biography of Jack London may be found at www.jacklondonpark.com/JLStory.htm
A
more comprehensive biography of Jack London is available at the museum book
store. The title of the book is “A Pictorial Biography of Jack London” by
Russ Kingman.
Hike to the Grave Site and the Wolf House
You are visitor
Thank you for visiting Jack London State Historic Park