
What we’re about
"If you are looking for well-organized hikes by an experienced leader with a friendly, welcoming vibe to the group, give this one a try! You will not be disappointed!" Ken Collins. Enjoy many of our beautiful local parks, get exercise, view native plants and wildlife, and meet other friendly local people. Getting outdoors is one of the best prescriptions for health and happiness. We're about creating a group environment in which our fellow hikers can connect and enjoy each other’s company in a friendly, courteous and supportive manner.
Your Guide - Zoli - I'm a long time (36+ years) resident of Sonoma County. I have been hiking and backpacking all my life. I love nature and spend as much time as I can outside. I'm interested in healthy foods, peaceful environments and mindful living.
The hikes - are usually 4-9 miles in length and are appropriate for intermediate-level hikers. Some are appropriate for beginner-level hikers depending on their fitness level. Hikers who are out of shape should read hike descriptions carefully and be aware of their fitness level before signing up.
Cost - suggested $5 cash donation
If your plans change after you sign up, even if you're on the waitlist, please update your RSVP.
Do Not Attend if you are sick, running a fever, were exposed to or have tested positive for Covid-19!
Hikes may be changed, postponed or cancelled due to excessive heat, smoke/AQI, rain, illness or zombie apocalypses etc.. Check your email the night before for any possible changes.
Please refrain from using any scented products the day of a group hike!
Of course we will all look out for each other but ultimately, hikers are responsible for their own safety and well-being during hikes.
Waitlist Policy -
This is an extremely popular hiking group and fills up quickly leaving many disappointed and wondering how it all works.
The history. I took the group over in 2019 and the "No Show" rate was up to 50%. Meetup said, this is normal.
After managing it for over four years I've reduced the average "No Show" rate to about 10%.
- This is how it works in this group now -
I post a new hike/event once a week.
The first 14 spots are first come first serve for any event unless specified.
After that everyone goes on the "Waitlist".
- Hikers are moved from the "Waitlist" to "Attend" list in the following order:
Frequent hikers - who regularly attend two or more times a month.
Occasional hikers - who attend once in a while.
New hikers - Who never hiked with me before.
You will be notified when you are moved to "Attend". Be aware of the "No Show" policy!
In spite of my success in dramatically reducing the "No Show" rate, there will always be people who are frustrated and disappointed.
No Show Policy
You can be a No Show for any reason and even contact me after the event (but the same day) and not get marked No Show.
But if you're a No Show and make no effort to contact me, you will be marked as a No Show.
Four No Shows in one year or three No Shows in a row will be subject to be removed from the group.
Release of liability
By attending any event you agree and understand that hiking is an inherently dangerous activity that you are choosing to attend and waive the organizer(s) of all liability from injury or disease including Covid-19, tick bites, injuries from falls etc.
What To Bring
• Wear appropriate comfortable hiking shoes
• Bring sunscreen and dress appropriate to the weather
• Plenty of water and snacks for longer hikes
• Cash for parking (if applicable) and the donation
What About Dogs? - Dogs are not allowed on many of the local trails. We ask that you please leave your 4-legged, furry friends at home for the group hikes, unless otherwise specified. Thank you!
Upcoming events (4)
See all- Luis & N Burma at AnnadelChannel Drive, Santa Rosa, CA
A beautiful hike to take in the wildflowers of spring. We'll start by going up Richardson to Lake Ilsanjo, take a break at the lake and proceed to Luis and down the N Burma chute to Channel trail. Best for individuals with at least a moderate level of fitness.
Where We Meet/Directions
Trione - Annadel State Park - Montgomery Drive to Channel Drive to the Very (Dead) End! Way past the pay kiosk! There is a Large Parking Lot and the Warren Richardson Trail head. Much Farther than you think....Keep going until you see us. Give yourself enough of time to arrive & pay park fee. It's often farther than you think.The Hike
Richardson, Luis, N Burma and Channel Trails - A loop hike
Distance - 6 miles/9.7 kilometers
Elevation change - 830 feet/253 meters
Difficulty - 6 out of 10 - Moderately easy
Exposures - 30 % sun/70% shade - rocky, muddy poison oak, ticks/insects.
Must be sure footed (confident and competent)!
Bring plenty of water. At least 68 oz./2 liter.
Dogs - Are not allowed
Facilities at trail head - Shade, picnic tables and toilet.
Cost - $5 Cash.
Parking - $7 State Parks fee Or Free with your State Park Pass.
Remember to wear appropriate hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, a hat, a snack and layered clothing.
Please Do Not Use Any scented products the day of a group hike!
Of course we will all look out for each other but ultimately, hikers are responsible for their own safety and well-being during hikes.After Hike Gathering?
Sarmentine French Bakery/Cafe
(Near McDonald's)
52 Mission Circle, Suite # 112
Santa Rosa, CA 95409
(707) 623-9595
https://www.sarmentine.com/When We Meet
Saturday April 26, 2025
830 am - 1130 am
If your plans change after you sign up even if you're on the waitlist, please update your RSVP.
Do Not Attend if you are sick, running a fever, were exposed to or have tested positive for Covid-19 or any other contagion!
Hike may be changed, postponed or cancelled due to excessive heat, smoke/AQI, rain, illness or zombie apocalypses etc.. Check your email the night before for any possible changes. - Hood Mountain HikeHood Mountain Regional Park, Santa Rosa, CA
We'll hike the Lawson Trail which climbs from riparian creek habitat, through oak, chaparral and Sargent cypress woodlands, and winds west across prominent ridge lines with scenic vistas of Sonoma Valley and Napa Hills, nearly 1,935-feet above the valley floor. Most appropriate for hikers with at least a moderate level of fitness.
Where We Meet/Important Directions
Hood Mtn Regional Park
1450 N Pythian Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95409
N Pythian Road entrance!
From Santa Rosa go East on Hwy 12 towards Sonoma. Just past Ledson Winery (on the Left) look for Pythian Rd (also on the Left). Go up to the main parking lot on the right. Give yourself enough of time to arrive & pay park fee. It's often farther than you think.The Hike
Lower Johnson Ridge to Lawson Trail - Out and Back
Distance - 6 miles/9.7 kilometers
Elevation change - 1150 feet/351 meters
Difficulty - 7+/10 - Moderate
Exposures - 40 % sun/60% shade - rocky, poison oak, ticks/insects.
Must be sure footed (confident and competent)!
Bring plenty of water. At least 68 oz./2 liters.
Dogs - Not on this one, heat stress is an issue. Even this time of the year!
Facilities at trail head - Shade, picnic table & toilet.
Cost - $5 cash.
Parking - $7 Sonoma County Regional Parks fee Or free with your Regional Parks Pass.
Remember to wear appropriate hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, a hat, snack/lunch and layered clothing.
Please Do Not Use Any scented products the day of a group hike!
Of course we will all look out for each other but ultimately, hikers are responsible for their own safety and well-being during hikes.After Hike Gathering?
Sarmentine French Bakery/Cafe
(Near McDonald's)
52 Mission Circle, Suite # 112
Santa Rosa, CA 95409
(707) 623-9595
https://www.sarmentine.com/When We Meet
Sunday May 4th, 2025
8:30 am - 12:30 pm
If your plans change after you sign up even if you're on the waitlist, please update your RSVP.
Do Not Attend if you are sick, running a fever, were exposed to or have tested positive for Covid-19 or any other contagion!
Hike may be changed, rescheduled or cancelled in case of excessive heat, rain, smoke/AQI, illness, zombie apocalypse etc... - Oat Hill Mine TrailOat Hill Mine Trailhead, Calistoga, CA
This historic Oat Hill Mine Trail follows the original route between Calistoga and the western end of Aetna Springs Road in Pope Valley. https://napaoutdoors.org/parks/oat-hill-mine-trail/
The ruts of nineteenth century wagon wheels are still evident in the rocky surface. Although the trail is rough, rocky and challenging in many places, we will enjoy sweeping views of Napa Valley, Mount St. Helena, and nearby mountain ranges. The trail passes through a diverse mixture of Oak, Douglas Fir, Gray Pine and Cypress forests, chaparral, and grasslands. Best for individuals with at least a moderate level of fitness. Hike may start earlier if high temps are predicted. Stay up to date, check for any changes the day before the hike!Where We Meet/Important Directions
2082 Oat Hill Mine Trail, Calistoga, CA 94515 Link below.
Google Map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/i6NHPG3venpVJQsK6
The trail head is located at the intersection of Lincoln Ave & Silverado Trail N. in Calistoga.
Self arranged carpooling is recommended due to distance & limited parking. Give yourself enough time to arrive. It's often farther than you think.The Hike
Oat Hill Mine Trail to Bald Hill - Out/Back
This is in Robert Luis Stevenson State Park and is part of the 375 mile Bay Area Ridge Trail.
Distance - +/-6.2 miles/10 kilometers
Elevation change - +/-1335 feet/407 meters
Difficulty - 7 out of 10
Exposures - 90 % sun/10% shade - rocky, poison oak, ticks/insects.
Bring plenty of water. At least 68 oz./2 liters.
Dogs - Are not allowed in most State Parks.
Facilities at trail head - None! Stop in Calistoga.
Cost - $5 cash.
Parking - Free - Self arranged carpooling is recommended due to distance & limited parking.
Remember to wear appropriate hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, a hat, snacks and layered clothing.
Please Do Not Use Any scented products the day of a group hike!
Of course we will all look out for each other but ultimately, hikers are responsible for their own safety and well-being during hikes.After Hike Gathering?
Calistoga Healing Arts Festival
Free 10am to 5pm at Pioneer Park
1308 Cedar St, Calistoga
https://www.visitnapavalley.com/event/calistoga-healing-arts-festival-may-10-2025/14037/When We Meet
Saturday May 10, 2025
9:00 am - 12:30 pm Hike may start earlier if high temps are predicted. Stay up to date, check for any changes the day before the hike.
If your plans change after you sign up even if you're on the waitlist, please update your RSVP.
Do Not Attend if you are sick, running a fever, were exposed to or have tested positive for Covid-19 or any other contagion!
Hike may be changed, postponed or cancelled due to excessive heat, smoke/AQI, rain, illness or zombie apocalypses etc.. Check your email the night before for any possible changes. - Mother's Day Hike With DogsSonoma Valley Regional Park, Glen Ellen, CA
Join me for a bonus hike at Sonoma Valley Regional Park/Sonoma Developmental Center. The trails we'll hike will pass through the park's northern boundary and offers views of Sonoma Valley and the Mayacamas Range. The property is an important piece of the Sonoma Valley Wildlife Corridor, a collection of protected lands allowing animals safe crossing on the valley floor.
Where We Meet/Important Directions
Sonoma Valley Regional Park
13630 Highway 12, Glen Ellen, CA 95442
Going East on Hwy 12 towards Sonoma. Pay Attention! The park is on the right a quick quarter of a mile past the Arnold Drive traffic light.
Give yourself plenty of time to arrive. It's often farther than you think.The Hike
East Sutton Lake, Valley of the Moon, Black Canyon Creek and Cougar trails - A loop hike
Length - 3.25 miles/5.23 kilometers
Elevation change - 360 feet/110 meters
Difficulty - 5 out of 10 - mostly easy
Exposures - 75 % sun/25% shade - rocky, poison oak, ticks and insects.
Bring plenty of water. At least 34 oz./1 liter.
Dogs - Yes, well behaved dogs on a leash are welcome.
Facilities at trail head - Dog Park, Water, picnic tables and restrooms.
Cost - $5 cash.
Parking - $7 per vehicle or free with Regional Park pass.
Remember to wear appropriate hiking shoes, bring plenty of water for your dog too, a hat, snacks & layered clothing.
Please Do Not Use Any scented products the day of a group hike!
Of course we will all look out for each other but ultimately, hikers are responsible for their own safety and well-being during hikes.After Hike Coffee/Food
Les Pascals (French bakery)
13758 Arnold Dr, Glen Ellen, CA 95442
(707) 934-8378
https://www.lespascalspatisserie.com/When We Meet
Sunday May 11, 2025
9:00 am - 11:00 am
If your plans change after you sign up even if you're on the waitlist, please update your RSVP.
Do Not Attend if you are sick, running a fever, were exposed to or have tested positive for Covid-19 or any other contagion!
Hike may be changed, rescheduled or cancelled in case of excessive heat, rain, smoke/AQI, illness, zombie apocalypse etc... Check your email the night before for any possible changes.