Hike the Hills Between Fairfield, Benicia and Vallejo

Solano Land Trust press release:

SOLANO COUNTY, CA – Come explore the hills between Fairfield, Benicia, and Vallejo on Saturday, October 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. with naturalist Jim Walsh.  Jim is an expert Solano Land Trust guide and he knows this area—known as the King-Swett Ranches—inside out.  He’ll share insights about the birds and other wildlife that call this area home, and he’ll give you a great workout!  Take advantage of this special opportunity if you can because the King-Swett Ranches are otherwise closed to the public.

On a clear day you can see views from atop King Ranch that sweep across the Suisun Marsh all the way to the Sierras, with Mount Diablo rising to the south. From the western edge of Vallejo-Swett Ranch, you can see the Golden Gate Bridge and Mount Tamalpais, the San Francisco and San Pablo Bays, and the Napa River and marshes.

All ages are welcome, but participants must be prepared for a strenuous pace hiking 4-6 miles off-trail, up and down rugged, steep, and slippery hills that are full of sticky seeds, thorny plants, and thistle, passing free range cattle along the way.

Bring a backpack with plenty of water and snacks; boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with good grip for rugged, steep, and slippery off-trail terrain; long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty; and protection from sun and wind. Binoculars, a camera, bug repellent, hiking sticks and gaiters are also recommended.

Meet Walsh promptly beside his white "TruGreen" pickup truck, at the Park-and-Ride lot where McGary Road, Hiddenbrooke Parkway, and American Canyon Road intersect (on the Hiddenbrooke side of the American Canyon/Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit, off Interstate 80).  Be ready to carpool or caravan from there to the trailhead.

Since its founding 26 years ago, Solano Land Trust has permanently protected over 20,000 acres of working farms and natural areas in Solano County.  Learn more atwww.solanolandtrust.org.