A Cloudy Start at Mission Trails

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We headed out for a recent hike on the Grasslands Loop Trail in Mission Trails Regional Park, knowing the weather might be a little unpredictable.

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The very cloudy December morning gave the park a quiet, moody feel that felt peaceful right from the start.

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A Moderate Loop with Wide Views

Bluewitch nightshade

At 4.4 miles, the Grasslands Loop Trail offered a solid but manageable workout.

Trail View

The moderate terrain kept things interesting, with gentle climbs and open stretches that showcased the wide grasslands Mission Trails is known for.

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Rain on the Trail

Snail

Partway through the hike, the rain rolled in. Instead of dampening our spirits, it added a refreshing element to the morning. The scent of wet earth and the sound of light rain made the trail feel calm and secluded.

Trail View

Ravens in the Sky

Common Raven

A few Common Ravens accompanied us early on, calling out as they flew overhead. Their deep croaks echoed across the open landscape and felt like a fitting soundtrack for the gray, misty conditions.

Trail View

Sparrows Everywhere

White-crowned Sparrow

One of the most noticeable sights was the sheer number of White-crowned Sparrows. They seemed to be everywhere—hopping through the grass, darting between shrubs, and keeping us entertained as we walked.

Trail View

A Phoebe on Patrol

Say’s Phoebe

We spotted a Say’s Phoebe perched quietly before darting out to catch insects. Its quick movements and pale coloring stood out nicely against the darker, rain-dampened landscape.

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A Kite in the Trees

White-tailed Kite

One of the highlights was spotting a White-tailed Kite perched calmly in a tree. Seeing it up close, scanning the ground below, felt like a special moment and gave us time to really appreciate its elegant posture.

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Another Hawk Joins the Scene

Red-shouldered Hawk

Later on, a Red-shouldered Hawk appeared, adding to the raptor sightings for the day. Watching it move through the area was a reminder of how active the grasslands can be, even under gray skies.

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A Rainy Hike Worth Taking

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By the time we completed the loop, we were a little damp but very happy we went out. The combination of rain, quiet trails, and memorable bird sightings made this Grasslands Loop hike a rewarding way to spend a December morning together.

Gopher