Spring into Lafferty Ranch: Hike, Learn, & Advocate

03/23/2025 09:00 AM - 11:30 AM PT

Event Registration is closed.

Description

As spring begins, join docents Dennis Pocekay and Matt Maguire to explore the beautiful Lafferty Ranch Open Space. Hike through woodlands and open grasslands, check out Adobe Creek, and share knowledge of plants, birds, and animal footprints and scat. Because both Dennis and Matt are retired Petaluma City Council members, they'll talk a bit about the city's plans for Lafferty Ranch and how to be an advocate or parks and open space.

Route and Distance: We will head east from the parking area, then north to midpoint meadow and looping south to a view point for picnic lunch; return is via the same path. Roundtrip distance is approximately 2.5 miles and the elevation gain/loss is about 300 feet.

Details:

Space is limited so register as soon as you can.
The hike will be led by volunteer Lafferty Docents.
You will be asked to sign a liability waiver upon arrival.
No restrooms available. This is a rustic property. Please plan accordingly.
You will receive a confirmation email upon registration. If you do not recieve an email then you are not registered for the outing.
Upon registration you will recieve an email with the exact location, driving directions, and parking information.
Please note that there are no dogs or smoking/vaping allowed at Lafferty Ranch.

What to bring:

Your own water bottle, bring enough water for you and your family. Your own food, and bag for waste . 
We recommend wearing LONG pants (against ticks) and comfortable sturdy hiking shoes that can get dirty.
Lots of layers, sun protection and whatever else you will need to be comfortable being outside in the elements.
Binoculars and hiking poles!

*Please note that by entering the Lafferty Ranch you are going into tick habitat and there are a lot of them this season. Make sure to do frequent tick checks, shower as soon as possible after the outing, and call a doctor if you develop a rash or fever.*

If we need to cancel due to weather or other circumstances: You will immediately receive an email if the program gets cancelled. However, if you would like to confirm, check back on this post; it will say "CANCELLED" if the program is called off.

If you have any questions, call the office at 707-544-7284. Please know that the office is only open Monday - Friday from 9am - 5pm. All calls or emails sent before or after that time will be responded to on the next business day.

Thank you for fostering a love of the land with LandPaths!

This event is possible thanks to the City of Petaluma!