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

Pilgrims Coordinate their own Transportation, Food, Lodging

>> Start time location & End point: 8:00am at Occidental downtown (base of Coleman Valley Rd park in across from Howard Station Cafe or near Boho Bungalow) to Jenner Visitor Center parking lot  (4:00p eta).

• We will guide stages 4 - 6th, Sept 9th thru 11th
• You need to RSVP for each day you will join us. There is a 24 person limit per day.

>> Transportation & Parking Reminder: arrange your own rides/carpools from the end point. (Park in the Jenner Visitor Center parking lot, most spots are available all day). Carpools should leave Jenner by 7:15am to the start.

> All Trails Stage #5 Link

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

> 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.

>> 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.

> Theme: “Perseverance”

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