Rooted Wisdom: Life Lessons from the Coast Redwood


ID : 15860   

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What can a 300-foot tree teach us about resilience, interconnection, and the art of thriving across centuries? In this immersive workshop, we turn to one of Earth’s oldest and tallest beings—the coast redwood—for inspiration, reflection, and transformation. Nestled among ancient groves, participants will explore the deep life lessons encoded in the biology, ecology, and quiet presence of these magnificent trees.
Through a blend of guided forest walks, contemplative practices, somatic movement, group dialogue, and creative expression, we’ll engage with redwoods not just as majestic trees, but as wise elders with powerful metaphors for the human journey. We’ll examine what redwoods teach us about:
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  • Resilience through adversity — How these trees withstand fire, landslides, and storms
  • Rooted community — The underground network of support beneath the earth
  • Patience and time — Growth that spans centuries within each moment
  • Regeneration and letting go — Lessons in adaptation and renewal

This class is ideal for seekers, nature lovers, and anyone at a life crossroads looking to reconnect with purpose, strength, and grounded wisdom. You’ll leave with practical tools to deepen your connection with the natural world and your own wild, enduring spirit.
This class is designed for intermediate-level hikers. Both of the approximately five-mile hikes will consist of undulating terrain with an elevation gain of approximately 700 ft. In an effort to accommodate all hiking paces, we will staff the caboose position in our hiking train. Please arrive with the clothing and hiking gear that you would normally use for a hike matching the above description.

16 and 17 year old students may participate when registered with a parent or other adult.

Class Details

2 Session(s)
Weekly - Sun

Location
Aptos Main Campus

Instructor
Gary Marcoccia 

 

Notice

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First class meets at Cabrillo’s Aptos campus room 801 and will transition to a hike in Nisene Marks State Park by way of the on-campus trailhead.
Second class meets at Henry Cowell State Park’s Nature Store. The store is located next to the main parking lot inside Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park’s day use area. We will meet on the store deck.
The hikes are designed for intermediate-level hikers. Both of the approximately five-mile hikes will consist of undulating terrain with an elevation gain of approximately 700 ft. In an effort to accommodate all hiking paces, we will staff the caboose position in our hiking train.

Fee:  $155.00


Schedule Information

Date(s) Class Days Times Location Instructor(s)
10/11/2026 - 10/18/2026 Weekly - Sun 08:00 AM - 12:30 PM Aptos, Aptos Main Campus  Map, Room: 801 Gary Marcoccia