sky falconry

We thought we were lost while on the road to Sky Falconry, but we had our directions and along the way, posted on fence rails or tree limbs like talismans against wrong turns, an occasional red tailed hawk marked our progress. When we finally arrived we had a view of the -- mountains all the way down to the ocean. On this high perch live Kirk and Denise, along with more than a few raptors, all part of their business and family. On a hike through the surrounding brush – the hawk walk – we got an introduction to falconry and then the unforgettable experience of interacting with one of the fascinating animals on earth. In this case it was Shanti, a magnificent red tailed hawk. One of the first things we learned about the birds is that they are free to leave. They stay because their life is good, their food and shelter provided for them. If they ever felt less than comfortable they would simply fly away – the prerogative of these great predators. So it felt an honor that Shanti would choose to fly to our outstretched arms, gripping our leather gloves hands with a surprisingly gentle touch. In the moment before contact, time seems to slow as outstretched wings and splayed feathers push against the weight of the mountain air, bringing momentum and briefly, your heart, to a stop. Then a connection, the collection of the proffered treat, and a regal companion scanning the hills and surrounding sky with intensity, all at the end of your arm. Through it all, Denise and Kirk generously share their knowledge and powerful personalities, helping us enter the world of the falconer and their raptor partners – a truly spectacular place to visit.

This was hugely fun. We did the 90 minute walk. Denise and Kirk were very knowledgeable, but also friendly and passionate about what they do. Our group had only 4 people, so everyone got a lot of time with the hawk - probably 20 catches each. We walked under a mile through beautiful scenery, with the hawk flying from person to person as we spread out further and further. The Alpine location is under an hour from San Diego, and well worth the drive, with plenty of places for lunch in Alpine. If you don't want to actually be a hands-on participant, you can join the group as an observer, but either way, don't miss this.

Sky Falconry is an absolute jewel. Few people can say that they've participated in the sport of falconry. Sky Falconry makes it possible. We took a class with them and have nothing but great things to say about it. They introduce you to the sport, its history, then ensure everybody gets a chance to have the bird on their hand. Very safe, informative, and fun. The photography opportunities are amazing. We look forward to going back for more.

We had a great time with teenagers, college students and middle aged folks on the hawk walk in Alpine.The drive up to the property on a steep unpaved road is a bit crazy but no problem in a 4wd vehicle. Some other guests showed up in a tired old Sienna minivan with no problem. However, the road was dry, I'm not sure I'd want to try it when it's muddy.Apart from that it was a perfect day with very knowledgeable, friendly and enthusiastic birds and human guides.I am a lifelong resident of California and never run out of new experiences to try. I have to rate this as one of the best things California has to offer for travel and leisure. And, after the hawk walk it's a short drive to the Viejas Casino Resort for a hearty meal at their buffet.

Denise and Kirk are truly passionate about their hawks and falcons, and it translated into a beautiful morning class of falconry for the uninitiated. The first part of the class was mostly a speech (light on demonstration) while both Denise and Kirk held their birds of prey and explained the history, skills, and customs of falconry. It was fascinating, and their friendly demeanor and comfortable rapport made their delivery all the more entertaining. They truly almost seemed to be performing rather than reciting facts memorized, and they kept the class engaged throughout. Then the fun part really started, when we spread out into a circle and called the birds to fly towards us. This was really fun and exhilarating, and Kirk thoughtfully took photos while Denise supervised the game. Other demonstrations followed, including throwing up a piece of food for the bird to catch mid-flight, as well as placing bits of meat on your shoes and allowing the raptor to pounce over to you from across the ground (rather than fly).The basic class is only about an hour and they do offer photo ops at the end, which is a nice touch (so bring your camera!). There are also 'Hawk Walk" tours available, which last a bit longer and allow viewers to engage with the animals more freely in a hunting-type of open environment where they are flying in the wild. I will definitely go back for this, as well as other activities they are planning on offering in the near future!It is really nice to see a couple so passionate and enthusiastic about their work; the hour goes by really fast and I already have several friends and coworkers who can't wait to do it. Book now, it will only get harder in the future as the word gets out!