What we’re about
"If you are looking for well-organized hikes by an experienced leader with a friendly, welcoming vibe to the group, give this one a try! You will not be disappointed!" Ken Collins. Enjoy many of our beautiful local parks, get exercise, view native plants and wildlife, and meet other friendly local people. Getting outdoors is one of the best prescriptions for health and happiness. We're about creating a group environment in which our fellow hikers can connect and enjoy each other’s company in a friendly, courteous and supportive manner.
Your Guide - Zoli - I'm a long time (36+ years) resident of Sonoma County. I have been hiking and backpacking all my life. I love nature and spend as much time as I can outside. I'm interested in kind people, healthy foods, peaceful environments and mindful living.
The hikes - are usually 4-9 miles in length and are appropriate for intermediate-level hikers. Some are appropriate for beginner-level hikers depending on their fitness level. Hikers who are out of shape should read hike descriptions carefully and be aware of their fitness level before signing up.
Cost - $5 cash.
If your plans change after you sign up, even if you're on the waitlist, please update your RSVP.
Do Not Attend if you are sick, running a fever, were exposed to or have tested positive for Covid-19!
Hikes may be changed, postponed or cancelled due to excessive heat, smoke/AQI, rain, illness or zombie apocalypses etc.. Check your email the night before for any possible changes.
Please refrain from using any scented products the day of a group hike!
Of course we will all look out for each other but ultimately, hikers are responsible for their own safety and well-being during hikes.
Waitlist Policy -
This is an extremely popular hiking group and fills up quickly leaving many disappointed and wondering how it all works.
The history. I took the group over in 2019 and the "No Show" rate was up to 50%. Meetup said, this is normal.
After managing it for over four years I've reduced the average "No Show" rate to about 10%.
- This is how it works in this group now -
I post a new hike/event once a week.
The first 14 spots are first come first serve for any event unless specified.
After that everyone goes on the "Waitlist".
- Hikers are moved from the "Waitlist" to "Attend" list in the following order:
Frequent hikers - who regularly attend two or more times a month.
Occasional hikers - who attend once in a while.
New hikers - Who never hiked with me before.
You will be notified when you are moved to "Attend". Be aware of the "No Show" policy!
In spite of my success in dramatically reducing the "No Show" rate, there will always be people who are frustrated and disappointed.
No Show Policy
After six years and over 300 guided hikes I'm adding a new rule for New Hikers Only Effective Immediately. In my experience New Hikers have a 90% chance of not showing up (No Show) to a hike they have rsvp'd to attend. The new rule is "When a New Hiker (never hiked with me before) doesn't show up (No Show) to their first hike with the group, they will be removed (not banned) from the group immediately." When a New Hiker does attend then the current No Show policy applies after that point.
You can be a No Show for any reason and even contact me after the event (but the same day) and not get marked No Show.
But if you're a No Show and make no effort to contact me, you will be marked as a No Show.
Four No Shows in one year or three No Shows in a row will be subject to being removed from the group.
Release of liability
By attending any event you agree and understand that hiking is an inherently dangerous activity that you are choosing to attend and waive the organizer(s) of all liability from injury or disease including Covid-19, tick bites, injuries from falls etc.
What To Bring
• Wear appropriate comfortable hiking shoes
• Bring sunscreen and dress appropriate to the weather
• Bring plenty of water with electrolytes and snacks for longer hikes
• Cash for parking (if applicable) and the hike fee
What About Dogs? - Dogs are not allowed on many of the local trails. We ask that you please leave your 4-legged, furry friends at home for the group hikes, unless otherwise specified. Thank you & Happy trails Zoli
Upcoming events (3)
See all- Lake Sonoma hike & Diavola's PizzaLake Sonoma Little Flat Trailhead, Geyserville, CA
Join me in celebrating the autumnal equinox (Sept. 22) with a hike at Lake Sonoma and some delicious Diavola's pizza. We'll hike through a magical madrone forest, take in beautiful expansive views of the Mayacama Mountain range as well as the Dry Creek and Warm Springs arms of Lake Sonoma. We will visit some of the largest manzanita and madrone trees I've seen. Best for individuals and dogs with at least a moderate level of fitness.
Where We Meet/Important Directions
Little Flat Parking (A large gravel parking lot)
From Hwy 101 take Dry Creek Road west towards Lake Sonoma. Go up the hill and across the bridge over the lake. Pay Attention, it's the first right turn into "Little Flat" parking lot.
Give yourself plenty of time to arrive. It's often farther than you think.The Hike
Dry Creek, No Name, North Slope and Bummer trails - a loop hike
Length - 5 miles/8 kilometers
Elevation change - 900 feet/274 meters
Difficulty - 7 out of 10 some short steep rocky sections
Must be sure footed (confident and competent)!
Exposures - 30 % sun/70% shade - creek crossings, rocky, muddy poison oak, ticks/insects.
Bring plenty of water. At least 68 oz./2 liters!
Dogs - Yes, must be healthy, well behaved and on a leash.
Facilities at trail head - None - Port O Potti about 1.5 miles in.
Cost - $5 cash
Parking - After a 5 year hiatus, Lake Sonoma will begin charging a $7 day-use fee beginning April 1st 2025. The flyer on this post (link below) shows the QR system we'll be using at trailheads, boat launch, Yorty Creek etc. The Overlook, Visitor Center, vistas, and Warms Springs Recreation area will be free. Passes will be available for purchase at the Visitor Center. See link below.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064865461323
Remember to wear appropriate hiking shoes, bring plenty of water for your dog too, a hat, snack, layered clothing.
Please Do Not Use Any scented products the day of a group hike!
Of course we will all look out for each other but ultimately, hikers are responsible for their own safety and well-being during hikes.After Hike Gathering
Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria
21021 Geyserville Ave
Geyserville
(707) 814-0111
https://www.diavolapizzeria.com/When We Meet
Saturday September 27, 2025
8:30 am - 11:30 am
If your plans change after you sign up even if you're on the waitlist, please update your RSVP.
Do Not Attend if you are sick, running a fever, were exposed to or have tested positive for Covid-19 or any other contagion!
Hike may be changed, rescheduled or cancelled in case of excessive heat, rain, smoke/AQI, illness, zombie apocalypse etc... Check your email the night before for any possible changes.Notice to New Hikers Only
After six years and 300+ guided hikes I've added a new rule for New Hikers Only, Effective Immediately. In my experience New Hikers have a 90% chance of not showing up (No Show) to a hike they have rsvp'd to attend. The new rule is "When a New Hiker (never hiked with me before) doesn't show up (No Show) to their first hike with the group, they will be removed (not banned) from the group immediately." When a New Hiker does attend then the current No Show policy applies after that point.
