Sharing this news from the good folks at the Pepperwood Preserve, an extraordinarily interesting (and local) place to hike. If you haven’t been out there, it’s worth a visit.

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Join an interpretive hike of Pepperwood on Saturday, February 11, 2012 from 9:00am to 1:00pm.  This is a moderate 4-5 mile hike with an elevation loss and gain of about 750 feet. Advance registration is not required and there is no cost.  Meet at the red barn.

This hike will introduce you to the natural history and land management of Pepperwood. All hikes are held rain or shine. Plan to hike with the group. For your safety, leaving early or separating from the group is not permitted. Participants are encouraged to wear appropriate clothing  and sturdy boots. Please bring a day pack with snacks, water, field guides, etc. Families are welcome. Participants should be in good health and able to hike over hilly terrain.

Pepperwood is an ecological institute dedicated to educating, engaging, and inspiring its community through land preservation, science-based conservation, leading edge research, and multidisciplinary educational programs. Dedicated to the protection of the region’s rich biodiversity represented within its 3,200-acre Preserve, Pepperwood provides unique open-space access to nature lovers, volunteers, students and scientists from the Bay Area and beyond. The Preserve is located at 2130 Pepperwood Preserve Road approximately midway between the towns of Santa Rosa and Calistoga, and adjacent to Safari West.  To find out more information about Pepperwood Preserve and its programs as well as directions, visit www.pepperwoodpreserve.org.