Spring Tours begin at Tehachapi Native American village site

California State Parks is beginning the spring 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 sacred place of the Kawaiisu.

Due to the extremely sensitive nature of the site, the park may only be entered on an authorized guided tour, which involves a moderately strenuous 3-hour hike. 

This season’s tours are offered on Saturdays through June 13.  Activities begin at 8:30 a.m. with an orientation at the Tehachapi Museum in Tehachapi and last approximately 4 hours, which includes travel time to and from the park (transportation is not provided).  Weather at the high-elevation park is variable, so layered clothing is recommended.  Adequate drinking water, sun protection, and sturdy walking shoes are also necessary.

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. 

To make a reservation or for more information, call (661) 946-6092 or email [email protected].

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

When:  Saturdays through June 13, from 8:30 a.m. to approximately 1 p.m.

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

Reservations: $10 per party

Contact: Norm Lee at the Mojave

Sector Office, (661) 946-6092 or email:

[email protected]