The most exciting time of the year to see the wild beauty of the Sonoma Coast is mid winter, as the waves boom to shore and the first wildflowers begin to peep up. What better way to begin the year than a bracing hike right at the water’s edge and then safely view the heavy breakers rolling in.
Meet at Gerstle Cove day use parking area (restrooms available) at 10:30 am. This is a mostly level easy hike on marine terraces north all the way to Stump Beach, which is 1.2 miles each way (with optional carpool return shuttle). We will pass by the tafoni honeycomb geologic sandstone formations, and conditions allowing, will descend a short narrow steep trail and cross the stream to enjoy our bag lunches on sandy Stump Beach. After lunch, time and conditions allowing, there will be an option to hike further north, up the hill and through the woods (and up and over some downed trees) to a scenic ocean overlook plus enjoy the waterfalls at nearby Phillip’s Gulch Creek. Plan for a 3+ hour round trip.
Please bring your own water, a bag lunch, layered clothing, sunscreen, headwear, hiking boots (be prepared for some possible brisk wind and seaside moisture) and if desired, optional hiking sticks, binoculars, and camera. Not recommended for kids under eight and – sorry – no dogs are permitted on Salt Point State Park trails, or on the beach. Hike is led by Fort Ross Conservancy’s Hank Birnbaum. California State Park parking fees apply. Salt Point State Park brochure & map link. Pair this hike with a 2:30pm Fort Ross Guided Tour & Tea. For more information please email hankb@fortross.org or call 707-847-3437. For rain cancellation info, please call (707) 321-5783. (Limited cell phone and wifi reception on the north Sonoma Coast.)
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Salt Point State Park
25050 CA-1
- Jenner