Islands in the Sky at Willow Creek

Join me in hunting for orchids and other early wildflowers. Willow Creek Preserve is one of my favorite areas to explore. We'll hike through redwood, Douglas fir, and oak forests as we climb from near sea level to ridge tops at 1,250+ feet with sweeping views of Willow Creek Ridge part of the Sonoma Coast State Park, along the Russian River. The land includes scraps of old-growth redwood and Douglas-fir, and high, rolling ridgetops. A challenging hike, best for individuals with at least a moderate level of fitness.
FYI - The parking lot is now open to the public and has a porta potti.

Where We Meet/Important Directions & Instructions
Willow Creek Open Space Preserve
Directions -
Take River Rd west. At Duncan's Mills turn south on Moscow Rd. Cross the bridge over the Russian River and immediately turn right on to Freeze Out Rd. Look for a road on the left when you reach the "No River Access" sign. Go thru the open gate and drive about 1/3 of a mile until you see us at a large parking area.
Give yourself plenty of time to arrive. It's often farther than you think.

Group Hike 330
Islands In The Sky, Upper Barn, Badger Hill Vista and Full Monty trails - A loop hike
Length - +/-5.3 miles/8.5 kilometers
Elevation change - +/-1100 feet/335 meters
Difficulty - 8 out of 10 Moderately strenuous, some steep sections.
Exposures - 60 % sun/40% shade - rocky & muddy, poison oak, ticks and insects and mud!
Must be sure footed (confident and competent)!
Bring plenty of water. At least 68 oz./2 liter.
Dogs - Are not allowed
Facilities at trail head - Porta Potti at parking lot
Cost - $5 Cash
Parking - There may be a State Park fee. It's a new parking area open to the public.
Remember to wear appropriate hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, a hat, snack/lunch and 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 Coffee?
Gold Coast Coffee & Bakery
25377 Steelhead Boulevard
Duncans Mills, California 95430
https://www.goldcoastcoffeebakery.com/

When We Meet
Sunday February 8, 2026
9:00 am - 12:30 pm
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, postponed or cancelled in case of excessive heat, rain, smoke/AQI, illness, zombie apocalypses etc... Check your email the night before for any possible changes.

Notice to New Hikers Only
"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."