Spring hike on Lafferty Ranch

03/15/2025 09:30 AM - 12:30 PM PT

Event Registration is closed.

Description

Please join LandPaths volunteer docents Indigo Bannister and Hugh Stevenson for an early Spring hike on the City of Petaluma's Lafferty Ranch property near the summit of Sonoma Mountain. Walk along the Rodgers Creek Fault across open grasslands, past the long abandoned ranch site, and through oak and bay woodlands along the upper reaches of Adobe Creek. We’ll stop along the way to enjoy stunning views of the Bay Area. The hike is roughly 3 miles long and includes 500' feet of elevation gain. There are a few short, moderately steep sections, but most of the hike is fairly gradual. Good hiking shoes are suggested.

This 270-acre property is the only publicly-owned land on the west side of Sonoma Mountain. Under contract with the City of Petaluma, Landpaths has been leading hikes on the land to introduce groups to its history and natural features since the summer of 2022. The hiking terrain ranges from broad, gentle meadows to steep challenging hillsides with a narrow path.

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.

*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.

Do you you have accessibility questions or need help registering?

call Laura at 707-544-7284 or
email her at laura@landpaths.org

This event is possible thanks to the City of Petaluma!