Discover the Heart K Ranch
Explore the 900-acre Heart K Ranch in Genesee Valley on Saturday, June 30, by land, by water or just by sitting on the front porch enjoying the view.
This event is sponsored by the Feather River Land Trust and includes a nature walk from the Maidu perspective, kayaking on Indian Creek, a historical tour, and a barbecue picnic overlooking the valley.
From black oak woodlands to big red barns and stunning vistas, this lost Sierra treasure located in Genesee Valley is not to be missed.
The kayaking adventure on Indian Creek is led by naturalist Nils Lunder as a way to experience the Heart K Ranch from a new perspective.
Organizers note that this is not a beginner boating event. There are some in-stream hazards and canoes are not recommended. Participants must be at least 18 years old and should have some river/whitewater kayaking experience, but the trip is considered non-technical. The event is limited to 20 boaters, with only eight seats available in FRLT kayaks, so register soon.
The nature walk will be led by Trina Cunningham, a Maidu descendent from Genesee Valley, who has been working to bring awareness of the Maidu culture to the general population. Recently Trina has been sharing her traditional ecological knowledge in order to impact state and regional policies.
The walk will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., beginning at the Heart K Ranch House. The trail includes uneven terrain so wear appropriate shoes and bring plenty of water and sun protection.
FRLT staff will be barbecuing local beef raised in Genesee Valley at 1 p.m. Beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages will be available. Specify in the online registration form to order a vegetarian or gluten-free lunch, along with any food allergies.
Betsy Kraemer, local Heart K historian, will lead a historical tour of the ranch, including anecdotal stories from years past at 2 p.m. Buildings on the tour include the main house, granary, bunk house, the 100-year-old barn and the old water system.
In 2011, FRLT was able to purchase the 900-acre Heart K Ranch protecting it from potential subdivision. It is perhaps the most species-diverse property in the Feather River Watershed and is of great importance to the local Mountain Maidu people. Being immediately adjacent to the Plumas National Forest, the Heart K Ranch is an ideal recreation site for hiking, kayaking, fishing, horseback riding and bird watching.
The ranch is approximately 15 miles from the intersection of Highway 89 and A22 (aka the Taylorsville âTâ). Follow A22 to Taylorsville and then bear right onto Genesee Road for 9 miles to the big red barn on the left. Parking is available to the left of the main ranch house.
Register online for the kayaking, hike, lunch or both at frlt.org/HeartK2018event and for more information contact Ellie Hinrichs at [email protected] or call 283-5758.
