Skimmers at Shoreline

Skimmers at Shoreline is a captivating destination within the 700-acre Shoreline Park in Mountain View, California, offering a tranquil escape into nature. This unique area is celebrated for its diverse birdlife, particularly the elegant black skimmers and Forster's terns that frequent the artificial saltwater lake, Shoreline Lake. The park itself is a remarkable achievement, transformed from a former landfill into a thriving recreational and ecological space. Shoreline Lake, a central feature of the park, provides a habitat for a wide array of waterbirds, attracting birdwatchers and nature photographers throughout the year. During the winter months, the lake becomes a haven for various waterfowl, including surf scoters, eared grebes, and the occasional horned grebe and Barrow's goldeneye. The early mornings are particularly rewarding for birding, as the lake is less crowded with boats, allowing for closer observations of the avian activity. As spring arrives, the spectacle of breeding black skimmers and Forster's terns returns to the lake, creating a vibrant display of nesting and foraging behaviors. These birds, along with other nesting species like Canada geese, mallards, black-necked stilts, American avocets, and killdeer, find refuge on the lake's island, which is protected by buoys to minimize disturbance from boaters. The black skimmer, with its distinctive elongated lower mandible, employs a unique feeding technique, skimming the water's surface to catch fish with remarkable precision. Beyond birdwatching, Shoreline Park offers a variety of recreational activities. Miles of paved and unpaved trails wind through the park, inviting walkers, runners, and cyclists to explore the scenic landscapes. The trails connect to the San Francisco Bay Trail, Stevens Creek Trail, and the Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve, providing opportunities for extended adventures. The park also features an 18-hole links-style golf course, Shoreline Golf Links, complete with a pro shop and driving range. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Shoreline Lake offers boating rentals, including sailboats, windsurfing boards, kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and pedal boats. Sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking classes are also available for beginners. The Shoreline Boathouse, located on the lake's eastern shore, provides convenient access to these activities. Adjacent to the boathouse, the Shoreline American Bistro offers a variety of food and beverages, perfect for a lakeside meal or snack. The park's history is as fascinating as its present-day offerings. In 1967, the city of Mountain View acquired the site with the intention of creating a recreational facility. However, the high cost of importing earth to prevent flooding led to its use as a landfill for San Francisco's garbage. In 1983, Shoreline Park was finally opened, marking a significant transformation of the land. The park's innovative design earned it the League of California Cities' Helen Putnam Award for public works in 1987. Today, Shoreline Park stands as a testament to environmental restoration and community engagement. The park's diverse habitats, ranging from saltwater lake to tidal marsh, support a rich ecosystem that attracts a wide variety of wildlife. Grassroots Ecology, in collaboration with the City of Mountain View and the Santa Clara Audubon Society, has been actively involved in restoring sections of Permanente Creek, enhancing the habitat for burrowing owls and other native species. Visitors to Shoreline Park can also explore the historic Rengstorff House, a beautifully preserved Victorian mansion that was moved to the park from its original location in Mountain View. The house offers a glimpse into the region's past and hosts various events throughout the year. Whether you're a birdwatcher, outdoor enthusiast, or history buff, Skimmers at Shoreline and Shoreline Park offer a wealth of experiences to discover. The park's blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance makes it a destination for visitors of all ages and interests. Remember to bring your binoculars, camera, and a sense of adventure as you explore this remarkable urban oasis.