Join Naturalist John Lynch as we walk through the sublime beauty of sage green lichen on burgundy Manzanita bark and moss bedecked oaks down to the 25-foot dramatic plunge of Sonoma Creek. Beginning at the Visitor Center, we’ll follow Pony Gate Trail’s grassy slope, into mixed evergreen forest, along Canyon Trail’s shady riparian corridor (with the promise of Pacific Giant Salamanders) to the waterfall. The return takes us back uphill, across Adobe Canyon Road to the now familiar Pony Gate trail.
This stroll is approximately 2 miles with 595-foot elevation gain. Tickets are $15 for general admission, or half price for youth (12-17 year olds), students, Sugarloaf members and Sugarloaf volunteers, and free for children under 12. Wear layers, appropriate footwear for muddy and/or slippery trails, bring at least a quart of water and if desired, a snack. Heavy rain or wind cancels and will be announced early on the day of the hike. Parking fees apply.

Ease of access: Pony Gate and Canyon are single-track dirt trails that descend into a canyon. Both have steps, and Pony Gate has a seasonal water crossing without a bridge. These trails are not accessible for wheelchairs or recumbent bicycles. Sport strollers are not recommended either.

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