SOLD OUT-Nature on Sonoma Mountain: A Hike with a Naturalist
John Muir said: “In every walk in nature, one receives far more than he seeks”
There is always something to observe in Nature! Every day is different. Every observation is special. From bugs to blooms, berries to birds, animals to trees and fungi … oh, my! What will we see today? Sonoma Mountain is the heart and soul of Jack London Park. On this slow-to-moderately paced hike we will look at and talk about things such as giant madrone trees, towering coast redwoods, animal lodges on the forest floor, the beginnings of spring plants peeking out of the ground, moss, and maybe some colorful mushrooms, even specially formed turrets made by spiders! We might also glimpse songbirds, hear Pileated woodpeckers making their loud echoing calls, or catch sight of other woodland critters darting in and out of the dappled sunlight. In late January, we might even see an early wildflower or two (like Milkmaids: “First Sign of Spring”), and, definitely, some pretty views from Mays Clearing near Jack London Lake.
Sonoma Mountain is an important home for many species of plants and trees and wildlife. It’s part of what made this a special place for our local historic indigenous people, as well as for Jack and Charmian London. Along the way, we will make some connections between the wildness of the mountain and us. Who lives here now? What does that mean to our health and our experience in Nature? We will look and listen and wonder.
Join local Naturalist Sarah Reid on an exploration of Nature from the trails at Jack London State Historic Park on the foot of Sonoma Mountain.
Expect a slow-to-moderate -paced hike with stops to observe. We will hike up to London Lake and around. Total hiking distance is about 4 miles round trip with an elevation gain of approximately 300 feet. Trails are a combination of graveled roads and packed dirt hiking trails. Some portions of the trail might be uneven, so bring trekking poles if you desire them. Please wear closed-toe hiking shoes and layers appropriate for the weather. Bring drinking water.
Be ready to start hiking at 9:30 AM sharp. Heavy rain or wind cancels. This hike returns to the Ranch Parking Lot where we began. Best for 12-year-olds and up. We will stay in a group with the hike leader during this outing, but you are welcome to explore more parts of the park after our hike!
Care to picnic your lunch? Bring a lunch and prepare to leave it in your car, ready for afterward. Near the parking area are lots of beautiful picnic tables! In addition, you can visit the Cottage and other Beauty Ranch buildings and exhibits after our hike
Limited to 15 people
Date: Saturday, January 29, 2022
Time: 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Admission: $10 (plus parking fee)
Place: Meet in the ranch parking lot (turn right after the entry kiosk)
The thumbnail image is courtesy of Deborah Large