Stage 4: Sebastopol Central Park to Alliance Redwoods (13.5miles)

“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 Sebastopol Town Square by the fountain (park along McKinley St between the Square and Brown St.)  >> Please ARRIVE BY 7:50am.

>>End at Alliance Redwoods Campground & Conference Center, Camp Meeker.  (4:30p eta depending on group pace).

>> Transportation & Parking Reminder: we prefer you arrange your own rides/carpools from the end point. (Park at Alliance Redwoods Camp & Conference Center parking lot, south end away from Sonoma Zip Line tours) Leave  by 7:30am 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.

> All Trails Stage #4 Link (note: we will have a different conclusion)

https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/camino-de-sonoma-stage-4-sebastopol-to-occidental-a8c88a0

>> Distance & Route:

Estimated 13.5 miles and 1,350ft elevation gain, walking poles are not necessary.  We’ll begin near the fountain at the Sebastopol Town Square and open our circle before an immediate but brief pause at the Kashia Pomo Creation Story mural (Coyote on the beach).  We'll follow West County/Joe Rodota Trails, through Sebastopol, enjoying West County views as we make our way to the small town of Graton after a longer reflection stop at Andy’s Produce Market on 116.  We’ll also pause in Graton for a bit of history before heading west on Green Valley Rd, andl pass through the Green Valley of the Russian River Valley Appellation, a unique region known for growing world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes.

Lunch Stop: TBD at Stage Steward’s home or Chenoweth Vineyards driveway. We’ll ascend up up through the Redwoods via Harrison Grade Rd.  Winding our way down scenic Morelli Lane, we'll enjoy the views, horses, and farms before descending into Camp Meeker. We’ll conclude our final mile FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER into Camp Meeker town proper across Bohemian Hwy (safely) and through a secret trail into Alliance Redwoods Campground.

> Food: Day pack your own lunch, snack and water and/or beverage.  There is an opportunity to purchase lunch, snacks, and drinks at Andy’s Produce.

> Restrooms: Several locations along the route have a porta-potty, some public and private business will also be available.

> Theme: Gratitude

>>There is a 17 pilgrim limit per day.

Remember to bring your passports.  Passports and stickers will be available for those new to the Camino de Sonoma.