Docent Led Hike of King-Swett Ranches

The King-Swett Ranches are a natural treasure in the southwestern corner of Solano County that rarely opens to the public, and only with a Solano Land Trust guide. On Saturday, August 4, docent Jim Walsh will lead a lucky group into this recently protected 3,930-acre expanse. These are the massive golden hills seen from I-80 and I-680. Views from atop King Ranch sweep across the Suisun Marsh all the way to the Sierras, with Mount Diablo rising to the south.

On the western edge of Vallejo-Swett Ranch, views include the Golden Gate Bridge and Mount Tamalpais, San Francisco and San Pablo Bays, and the Napa River and marshes. Jim will meet prospective hikers at 9 am at the Park and Ride lot on the southwest side of I-80 at the American Canyon/Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit. He will let the group decide where to explore from several options, (generally moderate to intermediate difficulty), and any special emphasis, such as native trees, birds, and vistas. This avid birder and professional landscaper has been leading hikes on a range of Solano Land Trust open space properties for three years. The hike will encompass steep hilly grasslands, and woodlands of oak, buckeye, bay and willow that provide habitat for a wide variety of species, including many that are rare and endangered.

Several ponds provide prime habitat for the endangered California red-legged frog. Slivers of serpentine soils support native grasses such as purple needle grass, blue wild rye and numerous wildflowers. The hills are a raptor's paradise, where golden eagles, several species of hawks and owls scan the open grasslands for food. Other bird species include orioles, towhees, bluebirds, Western kingbirds, black phoebes, swallows, and western meadowlarks. Mammals include black-tailed deer, coyotes, raccoons and ground squirrels. Hikers will want to bring their own water (no potable water or toilets on site), sunscreen, snack and hat. They should also come prepared for rugged trails through hig