Natural History Hikes

Take advantage of the healing powers of nature while exploring diverse ecosystems on Sonoma Mountain. SSU Naturalists will lead you on a tour of this university education and research site, and give you insights into the ways we can work together to restore regional landscapes.

When:

Every Saturday: March 16th - May 4th

Time:

10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Where:

Fairfield Osborn Preserve, Penngrove, Sonoma County

driving directions link: http://web.sonoma.edu/cei/visit/osborn_directions_.pdf

Contact:

Kerry Wininger

winingek@sonoma.edu

707-888-5616

Description/Background

University students and community docents will be your guide. Our guides are trained in natural history of the mountain and interpretation of preserve programs. They will lead you on one of many trails into this 450-acre preserve on the shoulder of Sonoma Mountain. Hike options include visits to the headwaters of Copeland Creek and spectacular vistas of the Santa Rosa Valley and Valley of the Moon.

Find out more about the SSU Naturalist Training Program at www.sonoma.edu/cei/programs/education.html .

These are Year of Sonoma Mountain Events.

Logistics and What to Bring & Expect

We will meet shortly before 10 a.m. in the Osborn Preserve parking lot. Hikes leave promptly at 10 a.m. Parking is limited so please consider carpooling. These events are free of charge.

Please bring a lunch, a water bottle with at least 1 liter capacity, and sun protection. We recommend you wear long pants, and closed-toed shoes to hike in are required. Prepare for inclement weather. There is a restroom and potable water available at the beginning and end of the event. Butterfly nets and insect viewers will be provided. These events are family friendly, and “rain-or-shine”.

Please expect to hike at least 1 mile with a 200 foot elevation gain, and some groups will hike up to 3.5 miles with 500-foot elevation gain. Adaptable to participant abilities. Tours are variable in length, adapted to the interests and expertise of participants and naturalists, and governed by current environmental conditions.

Event Policies

You will be asked to sign a waiver upon your arrival. All children and minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian. No pets or smoking permitted. The preserves are open to persons of all ages and affiliations engaged in research and education. Reservations are required.

If you would like to know more about the Osborn Preserve, take a look at our website.

For Questions About Events:

Fairfield Osborn Preserve (Sonoma County)

Kerry Wininger, Osborn Outreach Coordinator: winingek@sonoma.edu

Phone: (707) 888-5616