Stage 5: Occidental to Jenner Visitors Center (14.5miles)

“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 St. Philip Church, Occidental (park in church parking lot)

>> Please ARRIVE BY 7:50am.

>>End at Jenner Visitor center.  (4:30p eta depending on group pace).

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

> All Trails Stage #5 Link

https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/camino-de-sonoma-stage-5-occidental-to-jenner-bac9162

>> Distance & Route:

Estimated 14.5 miles and 1,000ft elevation gain, walking poles are not necessary.  We’ll begin at the base of Coleman Valley Rd to discuss the history of Occidental, calibrate ourselves, and open our circle. We’ll immediately challenge Coleman Valley road uphill out of town, walking poles may be helpful, towards Willow Creek Park.  We’ll turn right onto Willow Creek Rd and duck under the coastal tree line, weaving our way among the quaint and quiet neighborhood that guards the park entrance, where the thru road is closed and the dirt trail begins. On a clear and brilliant day we will appreciate the sight of the Pacific Ocean. The remainder of the day will wind us downward to the park floor before exiting near the Pomo Campground entrance. Our saunter along Willow Creek Rd will lead us to the Russian River for our final pause before crossing the river at Bridgehaven. The last mile of our walk will be along Hwy 1 towards Jenner, alongside cows in the pasture and birds enjoying the river. We conclude at Jenner Visitor Center parking lot. Walking surfaces will be majority dirt trail and a few miles of paved road.

This is a moderately strenuous 14.5  mile walk.  For your own safety and in consideration of fellow walkers this walk should not be attempted unless you know you are experienced and capable at this distance.

> Food: PACK A LUNCH, snack and water and/or beverage, there are no food/water refill options once we leave Occidental.  Lunch will on the forrest floor of the park.

> Restrooms: in keeping with our theme of the day, there are no restroom accommodations on this trail, we advise packing personal wilderness potty needs in your daypack.

> Theme: “Perseverance”

> 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.