Slow (Animal) Journeys

Do you enjoy a slow walk in a valley, breezes, wildflowers, the sounds of songbirds, the taste of a Douglas Fir needle or a California Bay leaf, the aroma of Tarweed, or watching wild turkeys and California Quail hunt for seeds and insects in the grass? Join California Certified Naturalist Judy Withee and other Sugarloaf docents for this series of meandering explorations.Each month (weather permitting), we will explore one or two of our accessible trails-- the Creekside Nature Trail and the Meadow Trail. Suitable for all levels and a range of mobility, these Sunday afternoon adventures will accommodate people using walkers or wheelchairs, parents with babies in strollers, young children, as well as those who just enjoy slow walks in nature that stimulate the five senses.Our July program will focus on the animals of the park along Creekside and Meadow Trail. Meet at the main parking lot, about ½ past the entrance kiosk. We will travel about 0.45 miles along the Creekside Nature Trail, then stroll down Meadow Trail for about a mile out to the wooden bridge that crosses Sonoma Creek in search of evidence of eight mammals that make their home in the park. We will explore who they are, learn what their favorite habitat is, what they like to eat, where they fit in the food chain, how the absence of one effects the others, and whether their populations are stable, rising, or in decline. etc. There will be frequent stops and opportunities for conversation, photography, nature journaling, wildlife viewing, resting, etc., so bring your nature journal, camera, or binoculars, if you have them.Tickets are $10-$5 sliding scale for general audiences, and free for children under 18. Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, sun protection, bring at least a quart of water and if desired, a snack.Ease of access: There is one van-designated accessible parking spot at the main parking lot, as well as an accessible pit toilet. The White Barn additionally has one accessible porta-potty. From the main parking lot to the White Barn, Creekside Trail is an ADA-compliant trail. Meadow Trail is an unpaved fire road that is mostly flat although not ADA-compliant. Some wheelchair users with off-road capacity chairs have successfully travelled this trail, which during the dry season is relatively accessible for viewing different habitats including a large meadow. Recumbent bicycles are welcome!______________________For more events at Sugarloaf, visit our calendar.