How are the parks recovering from the Sonoma County wildfires? Join a Regional Parks naturalist on this 7-mile round-trip trek into the southern section of Hood Mountain Regional Park. This area of the park burned extensively in the Nuns Fire of October 2017 and will have only recently reopened to the public. Observe the burn patterns and learn about the impacts of the fire and the firefight on the woodlands, including the rare pygmy forest. This hike will follow Lower Johnson Trail to Panorama Ranch Trail to the summit, which is now clear of the vegetation and offers spectacular views of the Sonoma Valley. Along the way, we'll look for wildflowers, including special "fire follower" species, and share how we and our community are healing alongside nature.
This is a strenuous hike with an elevation gain of more than 1,000 feet. Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes. The upper reaches of the hike will offer little shade cover, so a hat also is highly recommended. Meet in the upper parking lot on Pythian Road. Carpooling is recommended. Parking is $7 or free for Regional Parks members.