Fall tours begin at Tehachapi's Native American village site

 

California State Parks is beginning the fall tour season at Tomo-Kahni State Historic Park in Tehachapi.  Although no structures remain on this Kawaiisu Native American village site, the area's rich history comes alive through the trained volunteer tour guides and the clues that the inhabitants left behind. 

Tomo Kahni means "winter home" in Kawaiisu, and rock rings mark the locations of many of the kahni, or homes, that were built of juniper boughs.  Hundreds of mortar holes in the park tell of a very active past. The tour also includes Medicine Cave, Nettle Springs and a cave with pictographs, a spiritual place for the Kawaiisu.

Due to the extremely sensitive nature of the site, the park may only be entered on an official guided tour. This season's tours are offered Saturdays through November 14th.  Activities begin at 8:30 a.m. with an orientation at the Tehachapi Museum and last approximately 4 hours, which includes travel time to the park (transportation is not provided). 

The tour involves a moderately strenuous 3-hour hike at over 4,000 foot elevation.  Those with heart conditions or breathing problems should not take this tour. Weather is variable, so layered clothing is recommended.  Ample drinking water, sun protection, and sturdy walking shoes are also necessary (no flip-flops, dress shoes, etc.).

Tour fee is $5 for adults and $3 for children ages 6-16 (age 5 and under are free, but not recommended on tours).  Tours are limited to 15 people and fill up fast so reservations are highly recommended, for an additional fee of $10 per party.  To make a reservation or for more information, call (661) 946-6092 or email Mojave.Sector@parks.ca.gov.

Where:  Meet at Tehachapi Museum, 310 S. Green Street, Tehachapi

When:  Saturdays through November 14th, 8:30 a.m. – approximately 1 p.m.

Cost:  Adults: $5, Children age 6-16: $3, Children under 5 free. 

Reservations: $10 per party

Contact: Norm Lee, Mojave Sector Office, (661) 946-6092 or Mojave.Sector@parks.ca.gov

 
 

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