Jack London State Historic Park

Avid hikers and weekend warriors can answer the call of the wild at Jack London State Historic Park’s new WILD Trail Challenge, a series of five hikes on five consecutive Saturdays, covering every trail in the park for a total of 31.2 miles. Each week the hikes increase in duration and/or difficulty. 
The series begins on Sept. 7 and concludes on Oct. 5, 2024. 
Participants can sign up for individual hikes or do them all and become a true “WILD One.” The price for each hike is $25 (including the $10 park entry fee). Those who sign up for all five hikes before Sept. 7 save 20 percent and pay only $100. Details and reservations are available at <a href="https://jacklondonpark.com/events/hiking-series/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://jacklondonpark.com/events/hiking-series/</a>. 
The hikes will highlight the history and natural beauty of the park while offering participants a meaningful fitness challenge. Hikes will be guided by the knowledgeable staff and volunteers of Jack London Park Partners, the non-profit organization that operates and funds the park. 
All hikes except Hike #3 begin at Jack London State Historic Park, 2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, CA 95442. Meet in the Ranch parking lot (turn right after the entrance kiosk). Hike #3 begins at Sonoma Developmental Center, 15000 Arnold Dr, Eldridge, CA 95431, Main campus parking loop at Arnold Dr. and Harney St.
Hike # 1 – Historic Trails
Sept. 7, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 
This hike explores the historic sites and trails of the park. Navigate both sides of the park to discover Jack London’s Beauty Ranch, London Lake, and the Wolf House ruins. Easy - moderate hike (approximately 3.5 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 2 – Ancient Redwood
Sept. 14, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Meander through the redwoods and sunny oak woodlands of the park’s three Bridge Trails (Upper, Lower, and Fallen). The journey travels to the majestic ancient redwood, fondly known as the Grandmother Tree. Moderate hike (approximately 5.7 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 3 - Historic Orchard
September 21, 9 am – 12:30 pm
Start Location: Sonoma Developmental Center, 15000 Arnold Dr, Eldridge, CA 95431. Main campus parking loop at Arnold Dr. and Harney St.
Stroll along the blue shores of Fern Lake before reaching the Historic Orchard. Learn about the history of the land and the fruit-bearing trees that bear produce donated to <a href="https://www.farmtopantry.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Farm to Pantry</a>. Moderate – Difficult hike (approximately 5.5 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 4 – The Ridge
Sept. 28, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. 
Gain elevation and an appreciation for the diverse habitats found within the park. Hikers will also traverse part of the ever-growing Bay Area Ridge Trail. Moderate – Difficult hike (approximately 8.5 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 5 – The Summit
Oct. 5, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. 
Complete the hiking series with a trek to the park summit. Climb Sonoma Mountain to enjoy stunning views, celebrate with fellow hikers, and become a WILD One. Difficult hike (approximately 8 miles roundtrip).
Hikers should wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water for every hike. Participants will also receive an event reminder email 48 hours before the hike with updates about current trail conditions and hiking gear recommendations.
Dogs will not be permitted on any of the five hikes, which travel through the park’s backcountry trails and protected wildlife habitats. For more information about dogs at the park, visit <a href="https://jacklondonpark.com/policies/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://jacklondonpark.com/policies/</a>. 
For more information about the WILD Trail Challenge, contact Ciara Pegg at cpegg@jacklondonpark.com or 707-938-5216 Ext 5.

Local Event: WILD Trail Challenge at Jack London State Historic Park

Sonoma Valley

California

WILD Trail Challenge at Jack London State...

Saturday September 14, 2024: Avid hikers and weekend warriors can answer the call of the wild at Jack London State Historic Park’s new WILD Trail...

WILD Trail Challenge at Jack London State Historic Park

Join us this summer to paint en plein air. In this class, participants will learn and practice watercolor while spending time in our beautiful park above Glen Ellen. Students will choose a scene to paint and receive instruction on the basics of landscape painting, including composition, color temperature and value, linear perspective and atmospheric perspective. Gain a new appreciation for the beauty of your surroundings through close observation and careful rendering. All levels of experience are welcome!
After the workshop you may choose to go hiking, tour the museum, or walk to the ruins of the Wolf House.
Note: $10 per vehicle entry fee to the park is NOT included in class fee.

Local Event:  Plein Air Watercolor Landscapes at Jack London State Historic Park

 Plein Air Watercolor Landscapes at Jack London...

Saturday September 14, 2024: Join us this summer to paint en plein air. In this class, participants will learn and practice watercolor while...

 Plein Air Watercolor Landscapes at Jack London State Historic Park

Local Event: WILD Trail Challenge at Jack London State Historic Park 

Saturday September 21, 2024: Avid hikers and weekend warriors can answer the call of the wild at Jack London State Historic Park’s new WILD Trail...

WILD Trail Challenge at Jack London State Historic Park 

Jack London Park Partners, the non-profit organization that funds and operates Jack London State Historic Park, has announced the theme for their annual gala: “Yesterday’s Tomorrow.”
The event will take place on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 5-9 p.m. at Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen.
The evening will be an immersive culinary experience celebrating the agricultural legacy of Jack and Charmian London, whose visionary concepts from the past are still acknowledged for shaping a sustainable future today. 
The progressive dinner, “Charmian’s Feast” by Elaine Bell, will begin upon arrival, so guests can indulge their senses amidst a bountiful moving banquet. Corporate sponsor Kenwood Vineyards will provide wines – including the red wines made from grapes grown at the center of the park.
 
Charmian London will be the hostess for the evening, with an appearance by Jack London himself (as portrayed by Lynne Lancaster and Chuck Levine respectively). 
Ellen Toscano, “<a href="https://www.yoursingingauctioneer.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Singing Auctioneer</a>,” and Noa Weiswasser will provide musical entertainment and Toscano will lead a lively “Fund a Need” donations drive. 
Creative direction is by <a href="https://www.velocityartssf.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Gregangelo’s Velocity Arts &amp; Entertainment</a>.
For the fourth year, Jack London Park Partners will honor those who have made significant contributions in three areas: 
<ul><li>Philanthropy: The KHR McNeely Family Fund - Kevin, Rosemary and Hannah Rose McNeely.</li><li>Park Advocate: Sonoma Land Trust, for their support of land transfers from the former Sonoma Developmental Center.</li><li>Volunteer: Bern Lefson, a park docent for the past 12 years, who provided new golf carts to carry guests throughout the park. </li></ul>
Proceeds of the event support Jack London State Historic Park, which has been operated and funded since 2012 by Jack London Park Partners, one of the first non-profit organizations to be entrusted with management of a state park on behalf of the people of California. Jack London Park Partners is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization

Local Event: "Yesterday's Tomorrow" Gala for Jack London Park Partners

"Yesterday's Tomorrow" Gala for Jack London...

Saturday September 21, 2024: Jack London Park Partners, the non-profit organization that funds and operates Jack London State Historic Park, has...

"Yesterday's Tomorrow" Gala for Jack London Park Partners

Deer Camp is a lovely destination at any time of the year and for a Farewell to Summer Hike, the shade will be a welcome respite. This moderate, medium-paced 5.5-mile roundtrip hike travels the Mountain Trail and ends at Deer Camp, surrounded by redwoods, picnic tables, and a creek. 
Bring water, hiking poles, and a snack, dress for the weather,
and wear sturdy shoes.
Note: Extreme heat will cancel this hike.

Local Event: Farewell to Summer Hike at Jack London State Historic Park

Farewell to Summer Hike at Jack London State...

Sunday September 22, 2024: Deer Camp is a lovely destination at any time of the year and for a Farewell to Summer Hike, the shade will be a...

Farewell to Summer Hike at Jack London State Historic Park

Avid hikers and weekend warriors can answer the call of the wild at Jack London State Historic Park’s new WILD Trail Challenge, a series of five hikes on five consecutive Saturdays, covering every trail in the park for a total of 31.2 miles. Each week the hikes increase in duration and/or difficulty. 
The series begins on Sept. 7 and concludes on Oct. 5, 2024. 
Participants can sign up for individual hikes or do them all and become a true “WILD One.” The price for each hike is $25 (including the $10 park entry fee). Those who sign up for all five hikes before Sept. 7 save 20 percent and pay only $100. Details and reservations are available at <a href="https://jacklondonpark.com/events/hiking-series/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://jacklondonpark.com/events/hiking-series/</a>. 
The hikes will highlight the history and natural beauty of the park while offering participants a meaningful fitness challenge. Hikes will be guided by the knowledgeable staff and volunteers of Jack London Park Partners, the non-profit organization that operates and funds the park. 
All hikes except Hike #3 begin at Jack London State Historic Park, 2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, CA 95442. Meet in the Ranch parking lot (turn right after the entrance kiosk). Hike #3 begins at Sonoma Developmental Center, 15000 Arnold Dr, Eldridge, CA 95431, Main campus parking loop at Arnold Dr. and Harney St.
Hike # 1 – Historic Trails
Sept. 7, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 
This hike explores the historic sites and trails of the park. Navigate both sides of the park to discover Jack London’s Beauty Ranch, London Lake, and the Wolf House ruins. Easy - moderate hike (approximately 3.5 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 2 – Ancient Redwood
Sept. 14, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Meander through the redwoods and sunny oak woodlands of the park’s three Bridge Trails (Upper, Lower, and Fallen). The journey travels to the majestic ancient redwood, fondly known as the Grandmother Tree. Moderate hike (approximately 5.7 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 3 - Historic Orchard
September 21, 9 am – 12:30 pm
Start Location: Sonoma Developmental Center, 15000 Arnold Dr, Eldridge, CA 95431. Main campus parking loop at Arnold Dr. and Harney St.
Stroll along the blue shores of Fern Lake before reaching the Historic Orchard. Learn about the history of the land and the fruit-bearing trees that bear produce donated to <a href="https://www.farmtopantry.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Farm to Pantry</a>. Moderate – Difficult hike (approximately 5.5 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 4 – The Ridge
Sept. 28, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. 
Gain elevation and an appreciation for the diverse habitats found within the park. Hikers will also traverse part of the ever-growing Bay Area Ridge Trail. Moderate – Difficult hike (approximately 8.5 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 5 – The Summit
Oct. 5, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. 
Complete the hiking series with a trek to the park summit. Climb Sonoma Mountain to enjoy stunning views, celebrate with fellow hikers, and become a WILD One. Difficult hike (approximately 8 miles roundtrip).
Hikers should wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water for every hike. Participants will also receive an event reminder email 48 hours before the hike with updates about current trail conditions and hiking gear recommendations.
Dogs will not be permitted on any of the five hikes, which travel through the park’s backcountry trails and protected wildlife habitats. For more information about dogs at the park, visit <a href="https://jacklondonpark.com/policies/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://jacklondonpark.com/policies/</a>. 
&nbsp;

Saturday September 28, 2024: Avid hikers and weekend warriors can answer the call of the wild at Jack London State Historic Park’s new WILD Trail...

Have you ever been lured by the siren song to set sail for the South Pacific? Learn about two couples who made it a reality, Jack and Charmian London and Rob and Nancy Novak.
For Jack and Charmian London, living and owning land near Glen Ellen was a way of escaping Oakland, from the city way of life he called “the man trap.” But, restless and eager for foreign travel and adventure, he and his wife, Charmian London, decided to build a ship, the Snark, and sail around the world, serializing his adventure.
Nancy and Rob Novak, Sonoma County residents and real-life sailors left on their cruise of a lifetime in 2012. During that time, unknowingly, they visited some of the London’s South Seas destinations like the Society Islands (Tahiti, Moorea, Huahine, Bora Bora and Raiatea), 105 years after Jack London’s Snark came to call.
Join Nancy and Rob Novak for an enchanting afternoon as they recount their amazing voyage. They will set the stage with a summary of Jack and Charmian’s South Seas sailing adventures before sharing their personal story of sailing their own 48 ft sailboat, “Shindig” in the Mexican and South Pacific waters for over a decade.
“Our goal was to go on our own sailing adventure. We had been sailing in the SF Bay for many years, and our sailboat Shindig was bought specifically for an offshore adventure. We resigned from our jobs, and spent a year downsizing our belongings and putting the rest into storage. Our initial plan was to take 1-2 years off of work, and see where the winds would take us. We thought we’d stay in Mexico for a year, and then possibly go across the Pacific Ocean to the South Pacific. When we finished our adventure, we had sailed over 14 years and covered 15,000 nautical miles. “
Note: Limited seating is available. Performance space can be reached by stairway only; for more information about access, please call (707) 938-5216

Local Event: The Story of Jack London’s Snark and the Cruise of the Shindig

The Story of Jack London’s Snark and the Cruise...

Saturday September 28, 2024: Have you ever been lured by the siren song to set sail for the South Pacific?  Learn about two couples who made it a...

The Story of Jack London’s Snark and the Cruise of the Shindig

Saturday October 5, 2024: Avid hikers and weekend warriors can answer the call of the wild at Jack London State Historic Park’s new WILD Trail...

Take in the natural beauty of Jack London State Historic Park where thousands of native trees flourish – Valley Oak, Coast Live Oak, Bay Laurel, Manzanita, Sequoia – and use them as inspiration for this three-hour workshop. Participants will join the instructor at the park, choose one tree to spend time with, drawing its detailed portrait while receiving instruction on proportion, placement, texture, line weight, and value. Once students have an established drawing, they will explore the values of their tree with inventive colors in watercolor or colored pencil. Practice and build your observational drawing skills, spend time in nature, and have fun with color! No prior drawing experience necessary; beginners welcome. All materials are provided but you’re welcome to bring a mixed media sketchbook if you already have one.
After the workshop you may choose to go hiking, tour the museum, or walk to the ruins of the Wolf House.
Note: $10 per vehicle entry fee to the park is NOT included in class fee.

Local Event: Plein Air Tree Sketching in Multimedia Workshop

Plein Air Tree Sketching in Multimedia Workshop

Saturday October 12, 2024: Take in the natural beauty of Jack London State Historic Park where thousands of native trees flourish – Valley Oak,...

Local Event: Plein Air Watercolor Landscapes

Plein Air Watercolor Landscapes

Saturday October 26, 2024: Join us this summer to paint en plein air. In this class, participants will learn and practice watercolor while...