Springtime along the Carson River

By Donna Inversin

Special to the Nevada Appeal

Ambrose Carson River Natural Area is another park that's perfect for taking the kids. The park is on Deer Run Road about a mile and a quarter south of Highway 50. You'll find plenty of parking.

The trails on the north end are not necessarily well marked, but if you follow the trail north from the parking lot, it will wander through sage flats for about a quarter of a mile.

Watch for the sign notifying you that you've reached the border for the public lands. There should be another trail to the left, which will take you down toward the river.

When you get near the river then follow the trails south.

I do use the term "trail" loosely. Sometimes I'm not sure they are actually trails or just old dried up parts of the river, they tend to be pretty sandy. But whatever you want to call them, just enjoy the journey.

Right now while the trees are not fully leafed, look up. You can see very large birds' nests in almost every tree. I counted more than 10.

We were having trouble figuring out what kind of birds they were for " until we found a goose sitting on one. I always thought geese were ground nesters, but I guess not.

Also keep your eyes open for thin wooden boxes attached to the sides of trees. These are for attracting bats. It didn't look like any were occupied right now, but during the summer they will be welcome little insect exterminators. Go again at dusk during the summer and see if you can spot some.

If you keep on going south you will eventually come upon a clear trail. Look for the kiosk put up by the ecological club from Carson High School. There should be some guides in the box. Be sure and pick one up. The kids love to find out about the flora and fauna.

Along the way you will find several spots where you can get right down to the river.

After about a mile the trail will end where the river is right up against the bluff. Turn back and return to the parking lot via the eastern trail.

You can either call it a day or if the kids still have some energy left, walk toward Deer Run until you come across the trail that crosses the bluff to the right.

Whether you see it all in one or just part of the park you'll want to come again and again. Each season presents its own surprises.

If you are interested in joining some of our walks please feel free to contact me.

- Donna Inversin is the walk leader for Muscle Powered (www.musclepowered.wordpress.com) and co-chairwoman for special events for We Can. She can be reached at (775) 315-6763