Winter is newt breeding season! Join us 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. Approximately 2 miles with 450-foot elevation gain. $10/hiker, and parking fees apply.

Heavy rain or wind cancels and will be announced by 9AM the day of the hike.

Susan Topf’s Yoga Hike balances a mix of easy hiking and gentle yoga postures, breath work and guided meditation. No mat necessary. Please wear weather appropriate clothing to feel comfortable being in a natural setting and bring water (as needed). Route varies on weather conditions and group interest that typically covers 2-3 miles of varied terrain. Cost is $25 and includes parking if registered in advance online. Purchase the yoga pass for each group of 3 sessions this year and save $15. All levels and ages welcome. Meet at the Visitor’s Center unless otherwise noted in confirmation email prior to the hike.

Tickets – https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3913399

The Robert Ferguson Observatory (RFO) is open to the public at least once a month, usually on a Saturday near the time of the New Moon (see schedule here).

Daytime Solar: Solar telescopes are set up so you can safely look at and listen to our favorite star, the Sun.

For more information, visit: rfo.org

The Robert Ferguson Observatory: Both peaked roofs roll back to reveal the telescopes inside.
The dome opens and revolves with its telescope. The tall poles attached to the sides of the building
are part of RFO’s radio astronomy set-up that allows us to listen to the Sun. Photo: Mark Hillestad

The Robert Ferguson Observatory (RFO) is open to the public at least once a month, usually on a Saturday near the time of the New Moon.

Star Parties: Presentations on astronomical topics are given in the classroom throughout the course of the evening. Starting at dusk, the Observatory’s three main telescopes are open for your viewing. Docents set up additional telescopes in front of the building. Friendly and knowledgeable docents are available to answer your questions.

FAQs:

1. Map and Directions
2. When to arrive: We keep the observatory open as long as there are visitors, but you must arrive within 3 hours after start time to ensure that we remain open for you. Summer Star Parties begin with tours and presentations until it’s dark enough for observing.
3. Bring warm clothing, even in summer—observing is done outdoors.
4. There is a short walk from the parking area to the Observatory and you may wish to bring a small flashlight.
5. White Light: No white lights should be used after dark; the observatory is a red-light-only area to protect everyone’s night vision. We will supply red cellophane to cover flashlights. Please note:
   ◦ Bring a SMALL flashlight (large camp lanterns, light sticks, etc., cannot be adequately covered by red cellophane).
   ◦ Cell phones or cell-phone flashlights are acceptable but must be covered in red cellophane. (No cell service at the observatory).
   ◦ Some head lamps are difficult to cover with red cellophane. Once covered, head lamps should be worn around the neck or used pointing down as they are usually very bright at eye level.
   ◦ Red flashlights are available for $5 at the observatory.
6. Alcohol is prohibited on Observatory grounds.
7. The Observatory is not open to the public except for scheduled events.

Classroom presentations are always offered on Star Party nights even if the weather is poor. For current conditions call the observatory at (707)833-6979.
For more info please visit the Robert Ferguson Observatory website.

Enjoy some fungi fun with local expert, George Riner. Fungi are masters of opportunity. Even after a fire, the spores are in the air and find an environment where the local fungal species – i.e. competition – have been greatly reduced. These may show themselves in ways you may not imagine.

This hike is limited to 40 guests. Be prepared for two miles of leisurely walking over moderate terrain. We also invite you to bring a small basket with waxed paper bags and a hand lens, as well as a reusable container for hot cocoa for the little ones afterwards! Meet at the Visitor Center. $10 per adult; parking fees apply. Heavy rain cancels.