Explore Lodi Tour #2 Lodi Lake: Aunt Estella Spills the Beans

On Explore Lodi’s Guided Walking Tour #2 Lodi Lake: Aunt Estella Spills the Beans you’ll see Lodi Lake, the Mokelumne River, and the Nature Area. The costumed docent will take you back in time to when the Mokelumne River flowed freely to the Pacific, and you’ll learn how the land changed once the Woodbridge Dam was built. “Estella” will share the ups and downs of single-handedly managing her vineyard, almond orchard, and livestock and the effect General Mills and busy Lodi had on her long life. After the re-enactment you’ll take an easy walk around part of the Nature Area to understand how it was in days past.

Meeting Place: Meet inside beautiful Lodi Lake Park, 1101 W Turner Rd, Lodi, CA 95242. Walk inside the Nature Area gate and take a seat in the Redwood Amphitheater.

Parking: Park free in a nearby neighborhood or pay to park at the Nature Area or the playground. Note that for cars the entry kiosk at Lodi Lake on weekends can be busy, so allow extra time. https://www.lodi.gov/348/Lodi-Lake

Tour Length: 1.25 hours, less than a half-mile, mostly level packed dirt and pavement.

Description: A 15-minute costumed re-enactment of farmer Estella Smith, owner of Lodi Lake 1902-1937, followed by a 1-hour guided tour of the Nature Area “through pioneer eyes.”

Tips: Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen, bring water and bug spray.

FAQs FOR GUIDED TOURS:

When will I definitely be booked for the tour?

Not until you re-confirm close to the tour date. You’ll receive an email near the tour date and must respond affirmatively 24-48 hours before the free tour to re-confirm that you will be at the meeting place and ready to go at the expected time.

Are the guided tours really free?

Yes, though donations are welcomed: https://givebutter.com/explore-lodi

What do I need to know about the Redwood Amphitheater meeting place?

From the entry kiosk at Lodi Lake, turn right. Pass the playground on your right. Turn right at the next opportunity into the Nature Area parking lot. Restrooms are available at that parking lot. Walk into the Nature Area, past the Native Plant Garden, and down the slope on your left. The Redwood Amphitheater will be 50 steps away, surrounded by redwood trees.

What happens if the weather doesn’t cooperate?

Please check this website for “Hourly Weather in Lodi, CA” 24 hours before the tour. If the tour start time’s chance of rain is predicted to be 50% or greater, the tour will likely be cancelled. You can confirm weather-related tour status by emailing Tours@ExploreLodi.org.