Learn about Native Grasslands & Permit Orientation at Tolay Lake Regional Park

Learn about native grasses at Tolay Lake Regional Park with naturalist Wade Belew, President of the California Native Grasslands Association. This 4-hour hike on Saturday, April 30th will start at 9:00 am, and follows the trail to the east ridge. Look for raptors and enjoy breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay Area. There are sections of trail with uneven footing. This hike is not for inexperienced hikers; you must be in good physical condition. This outing is presented as part of the Sonoma iWALK Challenge.

The guided hike will be followed at 1:30 pm by an optional, free one-hour orientation for the Tolay IP Day Use Permit.

Guided Hike Information:

• Wear sturdy boots, long sleeves and long pants on this hike. Mornings can be cool, foggy and windy, so wear layers.
• Bring a hat and sun screen.
  
  
• Bring adequate water and food for your party, as these will not be provided.
  
  
• Walking sticks or trekking poles are useful.
  
  
• Binoculars are helpful to see raptors and other wildlife. 
  
  
• Although children are welcome on the hike, please note that the terrain on the walk is too rugged for most strollers.
  
  
• Dogs allowed on 6’ leash. Note: tall grass may contain fox tails.
  
  
• A restroom will be available at the starting location of the hike.
  
  

Guided hikes at Tolay Lake Regional Park no longer require advance reservations. In the event of rain or the potential for rain, please call (707) 789-9644 after 7:00 am the day of hike to hear a pre-recorded statement that will indicate if the tour has been cancelled. Hike route may be changed based on flood conditions. The gate will open 30 minutes prior to the start of the event. Please arrive at park by 8:45 am. Parking fee is $6 per car, or free with Annual Park Pass. Tolay Lake Regional Park is located at the end of Cannon Lane, off Lakeville Highway, 5.5 miles east of Petaluma.

Day-Use Permit Information:

The Tolay Interim Plan (IP) Day-Use Permit Program allows the public to visit the park during posted hours once they’ve completed an hour-long orientation and obtained a permit. Regional Parks is offering these orientations, free of charge, which cover permit procedures and rules & regulations. Registration is not required for the Orientation. After the orientation, participants receive Tolay IP Day-Use Permits, along with maps, park rules & regulations, and gate access cards. Permit holders may use the park for a variety of activities, including hiking, bicycling, picnicking, or horseback riding. Regular day-use parking fees apply. The orientation will take place in a historic barn with an uneven floor surface. Should you require assistance with access to the barn please contact a staff member. The Stone Floor Barn is an un-heated facility; please dress accordingly.