Join Sugarloaf docents Jim Sickles and Susan Perkins in a geology hike to learn about more about the geological formations that give Sugarloaf Ridge State Park its namesake, how soil composition influences native flora to thrive, and take a lightning-fast journey (in geological terms) through the history of the area, from the time California was underwater to today's volcanic caldera remains.
Meet at the main parking lot. Wear layers, appropriate footwear for muddy/slippery trails, bring at least a quart of water, and if desired, a snack, binoculars, and/or a camera. We invite you to bring a reusable drink container so your little ones can enjoy hot cocoa after the walk, if desired. Should the event be postponed due to heavy rains, the rescheduled date will be Saturday, February 15. Parking fees apply.
Ease of access: The main parking lot has one van-designed parking spot and one accessible vault toilet. Canyon Trail has two trailheads, with the upper trailhead about ½-mile from the main parking lot, on Adobe Canyon Rd. Canyon is a steep trail with about 120 built-in steps and a descent of approximately 450ft to the detour of Sonoma Creek Falls. Skipping the detour, Canyon Trail continues as a fairly flat trail adjacent to Sonoma Creek with two narrow wooden bridges and about 13 steps uphill to the lower Canyon trailhead on Adobe Canyon Rd. A few yards uphill, across the road, the lower Pony Gate trailhead continues uphill for over a mile, including a water crossing with a board and approximately 450 ft elevation gain until it reaches the upper Pony Gate trailhead(s), either across from the Upper Canyon trailhead or by the entrance kiosk, ¼-mile from the main parking lot.
