Fireworks hike to Bald Mountain

What better place to survey the plethora of Fourth of July fireworks displays than from the top of Sonoma’s highest mountains? Join Kenwood hikers “Bill & Dave” on a holiday hike to support Sugarloaf Ridge State Park on Monday, July 4.

The hike begins at 7 p.m. from the Sugarloaf group camping site, and climbs almost four miles with an elevation gain of 1,500 feet to the summit of Bald Mountain, at 2729 feet. Once there, a mountaintop reception, with fine wine, beer, snacks and sweets will be offered along with expansive views of up to 20 fireworks celebrations throughout the region, starting after 9 p.m.

“It’s truly a unique experience. The curious might want to bring a compass, map, and fireworks schedules in order to determine the cities,” said Bill Myers, who has been leading the holiday hike for 15 years. He lists past fireworks sightings from Sonoma, Santa Rosa, Healdsburg, Geyserville and St. Helena, as well as farther communities such as San Francisco, Fremont, Oakland, and even San Jose. “People run from one side of Bald Mountain to the other, trying to identify all of them.”

The return is all downhill via access road, not the trial. Myers noted that nighttime hikers sometimes see California pink glow worms on the hike down, an undeveloped form of adult firefly found throughout the coast ranges.

Space is limited to 90 guests. Price per ticket is $50 ($10 for kids 12-17), and proceeds support Team Sugarloaf’s operation and maintenance of Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. Information and tickets at brownpapertickets.com/event/2560505.