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Adventure of the Week: You drive by it -- why not stop and enjoy it?
By Bob Ehlert - behlert@sacbee.com
Published 12:00 am PDT Thursday, April 3, 2008
Story appeared in SCENE section, Page E10
Wildflowers and wildlife will be among the expected sights on a tour of the rolling hills of the King-Swett Ranches along Interstate 80 east of Vallejo. The free morning hike on April 5 is sponsored by the Solano Land Trust. Solano Land Trust
Though California is a densely populated and developed state, there remain green and golden jewels of open space that twinkle in the distance and remind us that nature has a stake in the land.
Even amid the hubbub of the Bay Area and bordered by Interstates 80 and 680 east of Vallejo, a glimpse of those broad-shouldered hills refreshes during an otherwise hectic drive to San Francisco or the East Bay. And often, there's a desire to take the next exit and explore one of those wide-open areas.
April 5 presents an unusual opportunity to join a guided hike with Jim Walsh, a docent with the Solano Land Trust, which owns and manages nearly 4,000 acres of the King-Swett Ranches properties.
Walsh will chat with the hiking group and decide how to tailor the route to put more or less emphasis on its many attractions: native trees, birds (including raptors) or vistas, such as sweeping views east of the Suisun Marsh all the way to the Sierra. The 1,200-foot elevation will afford western views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Marin County features like Mount Tamalpais. An avid birder, Walsh may be able to spot golden eagles or point out red hawks. But he guarantees that you'll be transported to a non-urban setting.
"It's an opportunity to get away from development. You'll think you're back in 1880s California," Walsh said. "There's a real sense of solitude."
Timing could be good for wildflowers on the hills and critters along the trail. "We've seen bobcats, coyotes, even peacocks. A couple of them have taken up with some wild turkeys," Walsh said with a chuckle.
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SOLANO LAND TRUST HIKE
What: Guided hike of King-Swett Ranches
When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 5
Where: Solano Land Trust properties. Hikers are to meet guide Jim Walsh at 9 a.m. at the Park & Ride lot at the American Canyon/Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit off I-80.
Cost: Free
Difficulty: Moderate. Hikers will discuss the route in advance.
Note to hikers: Since the weather is predicted to warm up, bring sunscreen, a hat, water and a snack. Dress in layers, because marine winds can cool things down. It's rugged, steep territory, so hiking boots and long pants are recommended. Insect repellent (with DEET to ward off ticks) is advisable.
Information: (707) 432-0150 or www.solanolandtrust.org
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