The Sonoma Overlook Trail is a nearly 3 mile walking path set onto the hilldiside backdrop for the the City of Sonoma. A diverse array of native plants and animals grace the gentle grade trail, and spectacular views of the town of Sonoma, the Sonoma Valley and the Bay Area can be found in the meadow at its top. Docent-led hikes are available for students and adults many weekends. The trail is open to the public for walking during daylight hours.

Sonoma Overlook Trail’s main trailhead is at the entrance to the Mountain Cemetery, off First Street West just four blocks north of the Plaza. The upper trailhead takes off from Toyon Road within the Mountain Cemetery. Dogs, bikes and horses are not permitted on the trail. The trail and associated programs are managed by volunteers of the Sonoma Overlook Trail Task Force, a joint project of Sonoma Ecology Center and the City of Sonoma.

Things to Do

Trained docents knowledgeable about the trail’s flora, fauna, and history give walks for 4th grade classrooms and other groups. To schedule a walk or to become a docent, contact Jaye Hays. For information about volunteer stewardship projects, contact John Donnelly.

Support Your Trail

Sonoma Overlook Trail, a joint project of Sonoma Ecology Center and the City of Sonoma, has been funded by generous contributions from members of the community. If you would like to help with the docent program or the development and maintenance of the trail, please contact us (see contact information below), use the donate page and select Sonoma Overlook Trail program designation for your tax deductible donation, or send contributions to:

Sonoma Overlook Trail

c/o Sonoma Ecology Center

PO Box 1486

Eldridge, CA 95431