Regional Parks Newsletter
February 2020
Get outside to feel good on the inside
We have more than 50 parks that invite you to come out and walk, play, cycle, dip a fishing pole in the water (like these two at Foothill Regional Park ) or just sit and breathe in the fresh air.

Enjoy building a healthier you. Take advantage of our mild winter weather and tie on those walking shoes, take a deep breath, and explore a regional park today.
Head to the coast and turn left for adventures
The northern coastal parks and beaches are calling you to visit. Hike along the beach, view wildlife (whales!), and even pitch a tent among the redwoods. Meander your way up the coast to discover new adventures.
New activities now offered for winter/spring
Put a spring in your step and explore your Regional Parks in new ways. With the recent release of our latest activities guide, you may have noticed some new offerings tucked among the favorites.

Download an activities guide here . Or check out our calendar of events to plan your next adventure. Here are some of the new activities:
Rock Out! Geology of the County
Step back in time to explore how plate tectonics and volcanic activity have shaped our landscapes. Learn why Sonoma County is home to such rich geologic diversity.
Feb. 16; April 19
Fitness Hiking Series
Explore a variety of panoramic views, seasonal flora, and wildlife observations during this hiking series. Enjoy intermediate to advanced 4- to 5-mile excursions.
Feb. 16; March 8; April 5
Family Fun Bike Rides
Hop on your bike for a scenic ride. Learn how to properly fit helmets, trail-sharing etiquette, how to pass cyclists and pedestrians, and about safety gear.
Feb. 29; March 14
Stories of the Land
Culture is alive, thriving, and ever changing.This new series examines the people and personalities of Sonoma County and how their lives are tied to our most loved parks.
March 28; May 7; May 9; May 30
Reserve your campsite now!
One of the most popular activities in the parks is camping. Choose from more than 200 sites – from the coast (Stillwater Cove, shown above) to the middle of Wine Country. Sites can accommodate tents, RVs, trailers, as well as backpackers and large groups.

Did you know that your park membership entitles you to a free night camping? Yes, you read that right: Free camping in one of your favorite parks (as long as your favorite has a campground!) Free night or paid, now is the time to make your reservations.
For those who want to camp but are novices, one of our new programs is First Timers’ Camping. Bring the whole family and camp out under the stars. Learn about pitching tents and making dinner outside. This will be an in-tents experience! (Pun very much intended.)
April 3
Video of the month: Making new friends
The internet was charmed recently by the coyote and badger video that our neighbors to the south, the Peninsula Open Space Trust, posted from their wildlife camera. Today, we share our own unlikely duo, a young fox and a skunk, caught on camera at Stillwater Cove Regional Park . The fox is ready to play, the skunk – maybe not so much. Click the photo above to see the video.

Wildlife cameras allow us and other park organizations to detect and monitor wildlife, ensuring their needs are also taken into account when making decisions about land use.
Calling all runners: Annadel 5k to support Parks
The Annadel Half Marathon, 10k and 5k return to Spring Lake and Trione-Annadel State Park on April 5, 2020. One of the biggest and most popular running events in Sonoma County, this run raises funds for our beloved parks. The 5k will help us build more running trails in Taylor Mountain Regional Park & Preserve.
Under construction: Natural play area at Taylor
With funding assistance from the Regional Parks Foundation, we are building a unique natural play area at Taylor Mountain.

In contrast to traditional playgrounds, this play area will feature natural materials like wood and boulders, a basket swing, and an embankment slide.

The vision is to create a nature-inspired, unstructured play environment and to entice families to explore the larger park. Construction is slated to be completed in late spring.
All aboard the Sugar Shuttle
Hike one way between two parks by booking the Sugar Shuttle. Leave your car at one park, ride the shuttle to the trailhead at the other park, and hike back to your car.

The shuttle runs between Hood Mountain Regional Park and Sugarloaf Ridge State Park (both in Sonoma Valley); or North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park and Preserve (Santa Rosa, pictured above) and Jack London Historic State Park (Sonoma Valley.)

The North Sonoma Mountain/Jack London route is being offered March 14 and 15. The Hood Mountain/Sugarloaf route is available April 11 and 12. May and September are “shuttle months,” with service each weekend; routes vary and parking fees apply.
Upcoming Activities
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Sonoma County Regional Parks
(707) 565-2041