Go where wildflowers abound
Happy spring! Although the season officially begins March 20, wildflower season has already begun in Sonoma County, with early blooms abounding at Foothill, Crane Creek, Helen Putnam, Shiloh and other regional parks known for their brilliant spring wildflower displays. That means it’s time to get on out there — but first, upload Wildflowers of Sonoma County, our colorful digital field guide to the baby blue eyes, California buttercups and Henderson’s shooting stars you're looking for.
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Umbrella Tree Trail is an iconic picnic destination
The famous Umbrella Tree, reached by Umbrella Tree Trail in North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park and Open Space Preserve, is a majestic bay tree cluster with a single, umbrella-like canopy. It’s a worthy destination in its own right, but another reason to make this short but moderately strenuous hike is the incredible view. At an elevation near 1,500 feet, you’ll see a considerable portion of northern Sonoma County, the peaks of Napa and Mendocino counties, and on a clear day you may even glimpse the Pacific Ocean. You’ll also find one of the loveliest and most dramatic picnic spots in all of Sonoma County.
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From the parking area, follow the trail signs uphill, past the ranger residence and an accessible view point and through a cattle gate. Continue uphill until you see the unmistakable Umbrella Tree atop a grassy meadow. A picnic table overlooks Santa Rosa, Bennett Valley and other landmarks. The hike is only 1 mile one way, but fairly steep with a 500-foot elevation gain. Bring a picnic and take some time to appreciate the expansive scene. You can retrace your route back to the parking area — or add to your hike with a detour to the Ridge Trail, which connects to Jack London State Historic Park to the east. Trail notes: Dogs are not allowed at North Sonoma Mountain. Remember to bring your own water! Parking is $7 or free for Regional Parks members.
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The perfect shot, ethically taken
This photo of lounging bobcats by Benedicta Justine is an example of what good photographers can do while still following ethical wildlife photography methods. The shot — along with many more by her and other local photographers — was taken in a regional park without bothering the subjects, which is what ethical photography is all about.
At its core, ethical photography puts animals’ well-being ahead of the shot. Its methods include shooting with long lenses — allowing more distance between photographer and subject — and waiting for animals to arrive on their own, rather than seeking them out. Photographers like Benedicta are recognized for their skill with a lens, but also for taking those extra steps to make sure our county’s creatures remain undisturbed.
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Measure M funding = Parks for All
Measure M funds are being put to good use in Sonoma County parks, making your parkland more abundant, more accessible, and more resilient to wildfire and climate change. The improvements are outlined in a new 2020-21 Measure M report released in partnership with city parks agencies throughout the county.
Passed by voters in 2018, the one-eighth-cent sales tax has allowed Sonoma County to expand parklands by nearly 2,500 acres, increase public access to programs and events, and adopt a “climate durable” approach to rebuilding parks burned by recent wildfires.
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Get energized with green exercise
Getting your exercise outdoors in nature has multiple health benefits. In our new Energize with Green Exercise program, we’ll hit the trail for a hike, stop along the way to work out, and finish off with a cool-down routine — all in the fresh air and beauty of Helen Putnam, Riverfront, Foothill and other parks.
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Choose your adventure
Park preview days are among our most popular events, because they give people a chance to explore properties that have been acquired by the county but are not yet open to the public. This month, we have not one, not two, but three park preview days planned — at Mark West on March 12, Carrington Ranch on March 19, and Calabazas Creek on March 26. All park preview days are free, but registration is limited.
Here are some other great events happening this month:
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Sonoma County Regional Parks
(707) 565-2041
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