Hike the headwaters in the Mayacamas

Ambitious hikers might find the Mayacamas headwaters hike on Saturday, April 29 the perfect way to spend the day – if the weather cooperates. The goal: a rare opportunity to hike the headwaters of both Santa Rosa and Sonoma Creeks, through private property not usually opened to hikers.

The 11-mile trek begins at Hood Mountain Regional Park, but trekkers should meet at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park at 9 a.m. for a shuttle to the trailhead. The route follows the Hood Mountain Trail down to Homestead Meadow, then crosses into the McCormick addition of Sugarloaf.

The group will hike up Quercus Trail and Grandmother Oak Trail to overlook the former Spaulding property before taking a lunch break at Red Hill. Continuing up Maple Glen Trail, the group will hike southeast along the county line on Perry family property, and enter Sugarloaf for a high-point hike up to Bald Mountain.

The day ends before 5 p.m. back down at the day-use area at Sugarloaf – where cars have been parked since morning – for a barbecue dinner. Dress appropriately, bring water and snacks, and be prepared for a 4,000-foot climb over steep and sometimes rough terrain. Tickets are $40, with proceeds split between Team Sugarloaf and the Sonoma County Regional Parks Foundation. Tickets and more information at sonomaecologycenter.com.