Hidden in Santa Clara, CA along the Guadalupe River is Audubon Society's Ulistac Natural Area. At 41 acres, it’s not quite as big as other natural preservation areas, but it is still very rich with diverse critters, plants and biotic communities.
The name Ulistac came from the Ohlone chief named “Ulis”. What makes Ulistac stand out from other natural preservation areas is that the teepees from the Ohlone Indians are still preserved here.
This place may be sparse with people, but it is never lonely. Many visitors here are those who live in the vicinity and come regularly to jog or bike the trail. Others come to bird-watch since there are numerous Avian species here. At the swampy Guadalupe River, you can observe many different shorebirds and ducks such as Mallards, Great Blue Herons, Killdeers, Pied-billed Grebes and many more.
At the North Entrance on Lick Mill Boulevard, there are many colorful birds such as Western Bluebirds, Acorn Woodpeckers and House Finches that fly around searching for food. You may even catch a glimpse of birds that tend to be shy and aren’t easily spotted such as the Northern Flickers, also a part of the woodpecker family.
Watch out! There are some construction still going on around the outskirts of Ulistac but it doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy the hike in other areas. Make sure to wear long pants and closed-toe shoes as there are a lot of shrubs and plants that may brush uncomfortably along your legs. Bring a water bottle too because the trail is pretty long and can get really hot on sunny days. There are several parks nearby so don’t worry about having to find a restroom.
For more information about the Ulistac Natural, go to: http://www.scvas.org/index.php?page=text&id=ulistac
For directions to Ulistac Natural Area, see map here.
