County of Sonoma
Sonoma County Seal
County of Sonoma Regional Parks
Volunteer Donate Find a Park Membership Newsletter Events Programs
Navigation bar background image

NEWS RELEASE

FROM:  Sonoma County Regional Parks
RELEASED BY: Meda Freeman, Regional Parks
CONTACT: Tolay Lake Regional Parks (707) 789-9644
RELEASE: Immediate
DATE: January 26, 2012
SUBJECT: Ranger-Led Hike and Permit Orientation at Tolay Lake Regional Park - February 11, 2012

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 San Francisco 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, free one-hour orientation for the Tolay Day Use Permit. In the event of rain or potential for rain, call (707) 789-9644 after 7 a.m. the day of hike to learn if the tour has been cancelled. Reservations are not required.

  • 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.

The park gate will open 30 minutes prior to the start of the hike. Parking is $6 per car, or free with Regional Parks Membership. Tolay Lake Regional Park is 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 free orientations, which cover permit procedures and rules and regulations. Participants receive Tolay IP Day-Use Permits, along with maps, park rules and 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 and no heat. If you require assistance with access, please contact a staff member. For more information, call (707) 565-2041 or visit sonomacountyparks.org.