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Volunteers docents lead free outdoor hikes and other activities on the preserves of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District.

Below is information on upcoming activities, provided by Leigh Ann Maze, the district's communications specialist. (Some activities require reservations. For more information, call 650-691-1200 or go to www.openspeace.org.)

■ Thursday, November 19, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
"Redwood Forest and Chaparral"
Explore tranquil redwood forests and chaparral found at this Preserve with docents Dick Gehrer, and Tommi and Strether Smith. The route of this moderately-paced, 5- to 7-mile hike will be selected on the hike day based on the weather and participant input. Be sure to dress for a variety of weather conditions.

■ Saturday, November 21, 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Windy Hill Open Space Preserve (meet in lower parking lot)
"Exploring Natural Communities"
Learn about natural communities and California native trees as you hike 4 to 5 miles through beautiful Windy Hill Preserve with docents Ann Reisenauer and Deborah Probst. You'll pass through grassland, foothill woodland, mixed evergreen, and riparian communities as you hike along the Betsy Crowder, Meadow, Hamms Gulch, and Spring Ridge Trails.

■ Sunday, November 22, 9:30 a.m. – noon
Thornewood Open Space Preserve
"Field Journaling Expedition"
Join docents Suzanne Schleck and Rebecca Pickart to hike at a different pace. Bring your sketch pad, field journal, and drawing supplies for a hike to Schilling Lake. You'll stop along the way to look closely at nature and sketch what you see. No experience is necessary. A folding seat and binoculars are useful if you have them. This will be approximately a 4-mile outing.

■ Thursday, November 26, 9:00 a.m. – noon
Monte Bello Open Space Preserve
"Turkey Trek"
Get ready for that big meal ahead by joining docents Paul Billig and Kay Partelow for a brisk morning walk to the top of Black Mountain. The 5-mile hike with few stops will include an elevation gain of 800 feet and take you on Canyon, Bella Vista, and Old Ranch Trails. Afterward you can enjoy your Thanksgiving dinner and have second helpings because you will have earned it!

■ Friday, November 27, 11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve
"The Morning After"
You and your family (along with holiday guests) are invited to escape the confines of your home post Thanksgiving and join docent Keith Johnsgård to breathe some sweet ocean air and undo yesterday's overindulgences on a leisurely recovery day hike through beautiful Skyline Ridge Preserve. The hike is a 4-mile circle route (275-foot elevation gain each way) that passes through four ecosystems, offering fresh mountain air and simply splendid views. Midway you'll enjoy a rest and eat lunch (bring your own) at Alpine Pond.

■ Saturday, November 28, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Skyline Ridge and Russian Ridge Open Space Preserves (meet: Skyline Ridge equestrian parking lot)
"Discover the Ridges on Horseback"
Equestrian docents Jenny Whitman and Glenda Smith will guide you on a unique trail ride where you'll enjoy views and learn about the environment around you on this 7- to 8-mile excursion. Youth riders under 18 must be accompanied by an adult and are required to wear a helmet. Your horses need to be conditioned for steady climbs up fire roads. Ancient Oaks Trail is a single-track trail along a ridge. No stallions. Reservations are required and will be accepted on or after November 14.