News from the Sonoma County Regional Parks:

Join a Regional Parks ranger on a four-hour guided hike at Tolay Lake Regional Park on Saturday, Feb. 11th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Bay Area while learning about this incredible property and its history. This hike follows sections of trail with uneven footing and is not for inexperienced hikers; hikers must be in good physical condition. This outing is presented as part of the Sonoma iWALK Challenge and will be followed at 2:30 p.m. by an optional one-hour orientation for the Tolay Day Use Permit. In the event of rain or the potential for rain, call (707) 789-9644 after 7 a.m. the morning of the hike to learn if it has been cancelled. Tolay Lake Regional Park is at the end of Cannon Lane, off Lakeville Highway, 5.5 miles east of Petaluma. The park gate opens 30 minutes before the hike. Parking is $6 per car or free with a Regional Parks membership. Reservations are not required for the hike or orientation.

Guided-Hike Information:

• Wear sturdy boots, long sleeves and long pants. Mornings can be cool, foggy and windy, so wear layers and bring a hat and sun screen.
• Bring adequate water and food; 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, the terrain is too rugged for most strollers.
• Dogs allowed on 6-foot leash. Note: tall grass may contain fox tails.
• A restroom will be available at the start of the hike.

Day-Use Permit Information:

The Tolay Interim Plan (IP) Day-Use Permit Program allows the public to visit the park during posted hours after completing an hour-long orientation and obtaining a permit. Regional Parks is offering these free orientations, which cover permit procedures and rules and regulations. Participants receive Tolay IP Day-Use Permits, maps, park rules and gate access cards. Permit holders may use the park for hiking, bicycling, picnicking and horseback riding. Regular day-use parking fees apply. The orientation is held in a historic barn with an uneven floor and no heat. If you require assistance with access, please call park staff at (707) 789-9644. For more information about Regional Parks, please visit www.sonomacountyparks.org.