Natural History Wanderings

The nonprofit organization Friends of Hope Valley traditionally hosts guided hikes and outdoor activities during the peak leaf season. This year they will be stationed at Picketts Junction (corner of Highway 88 and Highway 89 in Hope Valley) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Visitors can experience the fall colors in one of the most popular viewing locations while also learning about area’s history and ecology and enjoying guided hikes for all ages.

The inaugural Leaf Peepers Chili Cookoff and Crafters Fair will be held at the Library Park in Markleeville, Calif. Tasting kits for the Chili Cookoff are just $5.00 each and can be purchased on site at the Markleeville Library Park. Proceeds benefit Alpine Kids. The event is scheduled to run from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, October 8 with tasting kit sales beginning at 11:30 a.m.

The Crafters Fair will continue through Sunday at the Library Park, where the Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway Association (EPSBA) will be presenting live music featuring Indie folk rock and acoustic band Ten Dollar Pony from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Opening for Ten Dollar Pony will be guitarist, vocalist and songwriter Beans Sousa. The EPSBA promotes the beauty, stewardship, and travel of the Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway (Highway 4), which is another iconic leaf peeping route in Alpine County.

Admission to all events except the Chili Cookoff is free. Crafters Fair vendors and Chili Cookoff contestants contact Dawn Riddle at driddle@alpinecountyca.gov or call (530) 694-2475 for information on booth space. More information can be found at www.alpinecounty.com/events or by emailing info@alpinecounty.comor calling (530) 694-2475.