Sonoma County Gets Fit: Guided Tours Set to Spur Movement

Spring into spring! The public is invited to a series of wildflower hikes throughout Sonoma County, geared toward promoting health and fitness in each community. The hikes — starting March 24 through May 12 — are free.

The hikes are part of a countywide effort dubbed the "iWalk challenge," urging communities to get at least 150 minutes of exercise each week.

Organizers said hikers can expect to see colorful blooms in parks from Petaluma to Windsor and learn more about local wildflowers from Master Gardner volunteers.

The first hike kicks off this Saturday, March 24, from 10 a.m. to noon at Sonoma Valley Regional Park, 13630 Sonoma Highway, in Glen Ellen. This walk begins on a paved path and is ADA accessible. Participants should meet in the parking lot for a prompt 10 a.m. start. Future hikes include:

• March 31, Foothill Regional Park, Windsor, 10 a.m.-noon
• April 7, Helen Putnam Regional Park, Petaluma, 10 a.m.-noon
• April 14, Riverfront Regional Park, Windsor, 10 a.m.-noon
• April 21, Steelhead Beach Regional Park, Forestville, 10 a.m.-noon
• April 28, Crane Creek Regional Park, Rohnert Park, 10 a.m.-noon
• May 5, Shiloh Ranch Regional Park, Santa Rosa, 10 a.m.-noon
• May 12, Hood Mountain Regional Park, Santa Rosa, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. (Meet in the Los Alamos Road parking lot)

Event details: visit Sonoma County Parks online and click on the “Spring Hikes” link. Hikes range from easy to strenuous. Plan to meet in the parking lot at the designated time, no registration necessary. Dress for the weather (layered clothing best), wear good walking shoes and bring your own water and snack. Heavy rain cancels. Parking is $6 or free for Regional Parks members. Go here for more information about the iWalk challenge.