Falling for autumn on Topanga walk

Autumn is officially here, and the Children’s Nature Institute is using the occasion to acquaint folks with the ever-changing natural world that’s all around them. Sarah Lowing, program coordinator for the group, leads a family nature walk inTopanga State Park this Saturday, September 24, at 10 a.m.

“We will be talking about seasonal change,” said Lowing, “something that people forget happens around here.”

Last year provided a vibrant reminder that L.A. really does have seasons, with rare colorful leaf changes painting the hills red, orange and yellow. We may get more of the same this year, but it is too soon to tell. According to Lowing, a colorful fall is heavily dependent on weather: if there is too much precipitation, heat or wind, the leaves will brown and fall rapidly.

“If it’s cold and it’s calm and there’s no rain, then we get a chance to see fall put on her show,” Lowing said.

Saturday’s family walk focuses on the coming of fall but leaves plenty of room for improvisation, depending on what the group discovers. Kids will be given magnifying glasses for exploration, and can join in on interactive fun like leaf rubbing. Oak trees will be examined for evidence of ripening acorns—one sign that autumn is upon us.

The two-hour expedition costs $25 for the first child and $10 for each additional child. In a bit of a switch from the norm, adults go for free. Reserve your spots via the website, where you can also find directions.

This event is one installment in the institute’s Family Nature Walks series, which take place monthly across some of the most beautiful parks in Los Angeles.

Posted 9/21/11