Education Programs at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
Sonoma Ecology Center’s Programs
Since 2002, Sonoma Ecology Center has offered environmental education to Sonoma youth, specifically focusing on the Sonoma Creek Watershed. Each year, our no-cost programs for Sonoma Valley Schools reach over 1,200 students, providing in-class lessons and hands-on experiences across various natural sites within the watershed.
Why Choose Sugarloaf Ridge for Your Educational Trip?
With 25+ miles of trails, year-round camping, a seasonal waterfall, one of Sonoma County’s highest peaks, and the headwaters of Sonoma Creek, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park presents a perfect outdoor classroom for students of all ages.
Educational Activities We Offer
Our highly skilled educators and nature docents create small groups for rotating investigations that include:
- Watershed education
- Naturalist scavenger hunts
- Plant and animal identification
- Local history and geology
- Aquatic life science
- Our new Quest hike
Robert Ferguson Observatory
Sugarloaf Ridge is home to the Robert Ferguson Observatory, the largest observatory dedicated to public education and viewing in the western United States. A perfect complement to any educational trip! More information at www.rfo.org
Field Trip Opportunities
We invite teachers and student leaders to apply for our field trips year-round. Due to high demand, we recommend reaching out early to secure a spot.
Free Programs for Sonoma Valley Schools
Field trip programming for schools within Sonoma Valley is provided free of charge. Schools are responsible for organizing their own transportation.
Field Trip Options for Schools Outside Sonoma Valley
- Free Entry & Self-Guided Tours
- Enjoy free park entry with prior coordination
- We provide suggested routes and brochures for self-guided hikes
- Every student and teacher will receive a free pass to revisit the park
- Volunteer-Guided Hikes
- Knowledgeable docents lead engaging hikes (1-3 hours)
- Ideal docent-to-student ratio: 1 docent per 10-20 students
- Fee: $75 per docent for schools not meeting the 60% free/reduced lunch threshold. (Contact us if cost is a challenge)
- Every student and teacher will receive a free pass to revisit the park
- Professional Educator-Led Field Trips
- Three-hour, in-depth field trips with professional educators
- Rate: $375 for two educators
- All participants receive a free pass to return to the park
For further details and booking inquiries, please contact:
Tony Passantino, SEC Education Coordinator
Phone: 707.529.7493
Email: tony@sonomaecologycenter.org
