Come explore the hills between Fairfield, Benicia, and Vallejo! You’ll be led by Jim Walsh and James Chang, both expert Solano Land Trust guides who know this area—known as the King-Swett Ranches—inside out. They’ll share insights about the birds and other wildlife that call this area home, and give you a great workout! Take advantage of this special opportunity if you can because the King-Swett Ranches are otherwise closed.
What to bring:
- A backpack with plenty of water and snacks.
- Boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rugged, steep, and slippery off-trail terrain.
- Long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty.
- Protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain).
- Also recommended: Binoculars, camera, bug repellent, hiking sticks, gaiters.
What to be prepared for:
- Carpool or caravan from the meeting place (see below).
- Participants of all ages are welcome, but they must be prepared for the following: A strenuous pace hiking 4-6 miles off-trail, up and down rugged, steep, and slippery hills that are full of sticky seeds, thorny plants, and thistle.
- The King-Swett Ranches are working ranches—cattle are free range so they roam as they please.
- Very heavy rain cancels—call Jim at 916-870-4824 if the weather is uncertain.
MEETING PLACE: Meet promptly at the Park-and-Ride lot where McGary Road, Hiddenbrooke Parkway, and American Canyon Road intersect (on the Hiddenbrooke side of the American Canyon/Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit, off Interstate 80). (Jim has a white “TruGreen” pickup truck). Be ready to carpool or caravan from there.
RSVP required:
