Stage 4: Sebastopol Central Park to Occidental (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 St. Philip Church, Occidental.  (4:30p eta depending on group pace).

>> Transportation & Parking Reminder: we prefer you arrange your own rides/carpools from the end point. (Park at St. Philip Church, Occidental.) Leave  Occidental 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

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 under the shade of Redwoods along Occidental/Camp Meeker Rd and follow Dutch Bill Creek into the heart of the charming bohemian community of Occidental. We’ll end in this charming downtown and enjoy table fellowship. Walking surfaces are streets and paths.

> 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

>> You need to RSVP for each day you will join us. 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.