Have you ever wondered when you open a wine bottle: "where does the cork come from?". Here's your answer.
The Cork Oak is actually native to the western and central Mediterranean region of Europe and parts of North Africa where it can grow in heat, drought and arid conditions. It was introduced into California in the mid 1800's.
The cork layer (bark) can be harvested without damaging the tree too much. The first harvest usually takes place after about 25 years. A new harvest takes place every 9 to 12 years when the layer thickness is approximately 1 to 1 and 1/2 inches. The best cork comes only after the 3rd or 4th harvest. A tree can be harvested 5 to 17 times in total. Cork harvesting is done entirely with human labor. It takes a team of five using a small ax to harvest a tree. The harvesters have to undergo specialized training so they don't inflict excess damage to the tree.
Parking is on the side streets off of Fulton Road. The path is essentially level and great for walking or biking. You'll see many people walking their dogs along the way.