Sugarloaf Through the Ages

Join Sugarloaf docent Susan Perkins in a geology hike to learn about more about the geological formations that give Sugarloaf Ridge State Park its namesake, how soil composition influences native flora to thrive, and take a lightning-fast journey (in geological terms) through the history of the area, from the time California was underwater to today's volcanic caldera remains.

Meet at the White Barn parking lot. Tickets are $10 for general audiences, $5 for youth (12-17 year olds; must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian), students, Sugarloaf Members, Sugarloaf or RFO volunteers, and free for children under 12. Wear layers, appropriate footwear for muddy/slippery trails, bring at least a quart of water, and if desired, a snack, binoculars, and/or a camera. We invite you to bring a reusable drink container so your little ones can enjoy hot cocoa after the walk, if desired. Heavy rains cancel. Parking fees apply.

Ease of access: The White Barn parking lot has one van-designated parking spot and an accessible porta-potty. From here, the 1/4-mile road up to Robert Ferguson Observatory is paved. Lower Bald Mt Trail has three 3 trailheads, one of them next to the Observatory. It is a single-track dirt trail with multiple narrow switchbacks and inclines with an elevation loss of 150ft and 0.6 miles back to the main parking lot. Across from the main lot, Creekside Nature Trail is an ADA-compliant trail of 0.45 miles back to the White Barn.

You may also like the following events from Sugarloaf Ridge State Park:

• This Saturday, 14th February, 10:00 am, Mushroom Hike (Sold Out) in Kenwood
• This Sunday, 15th February, 09:00 am, Sugarloaf Great Backyard Bird Count! in Kenwood
• Next Monday, 16th February, 10:00 am, Family Hikes 2026 in Kenwood

Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Kenwood.