Stage 1: Sonoma Mission to Kenwood Plaza Park (12.5 miles)

“If you would like to go fast, you go alone; if you’d like to go far, you go with others” therefore we offer a guided experience of history, story, and reflection along the Camino de Sonoma.

The route was discovered as a conduit between cultures, and this healing path has been established to engage the story of the land and the pilgrims who walk it. Because of this, we are invited to walk purposefully while we enjoy the wonder of each step furthering an encounter with the exceptional beauty of this land.

We are thrilled to see a very diverse group of people walking the Camino de Sonoma. Our guided walks invite all people to experience the value of walking.

>> START “Opening Circle”: 8:00am at Bear Flag Monument across from the Mission (NE corner of the Sonoma Plaza, intersection of 1st St. East & E. Spain St).  >> Please ARRIVE BY 7:50am.

>>End at Kenwood Plaza Park (4:00p eta depending on group pace).

>> Transportation & Parking Reminder:  we prefer that you arrange your own rides/carpools from the end point in Kenwood Park.  Leave Kenwood by 7:15am to make the START in time for our 8am Opening Circle.

>> Guides can assist with shuttling pilgrims back to the START at the end of the day if needed.

LONG TERM PARKING lot behind the Mission (entrance on 1st St E)

> All Trails Stage #1 Link

https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/camino-de-sonoma-stage-1-bcc0d40

>> Distance & Route:

Estimated 12.5 miles and 250ft elevation gain, walking poles are not necessary.  We’ll begin at the Sonoma Plaza Bear Flag Monument for a brief history and reflection in our typical opening circle before walking across the street to the Mission and pausing for the blessing of the feet and the Native American memorial. Finally we’ll take our first steps along the “Rails to Trails” Sonoma Bike path that will lead to Hwy 12, pause at Maxwell Farms, and head up Hwy 12 on sidewalks before reaching Old Madrone road and heading West.  Arnold Drive will then take us north into Glen Ellen via Sonoma Valley Regional park. After we pass through the Sonoma County Developmental Center.

Lunch stop: Glen Ellen Village Market. We’ll continue the day on Henno Rd and enjoy a peaceful walk amid the beauty of Sonoma Valley and its neighborhood before connecting with Dunbar Rd and back onto Hwy 12. We’ll conclude into Kenwood Plaza Park.

> Food: pack water and snacks, meals are available to purchase along the way.

> Restrooms: available in a variety of businesses along Hwy 12.

> Theme: "Movement”

> You need to RSVP for each day you will join us. There is a 17 pilgrim limit per day.

If you have walked with us before, please remember to bring your Camino De Sonoma passports.  

Passports and stickers will be available for those new to the Camino de Sonoma.