January 2026 Newsletter
Learn to bird in the new year
Looking for a New Year’s resolution that gets you outside? Winter is an ideal time to take up birdwatching, with migrating species returning to the area and all birds easier to spot on bare branches. Join our guided "Winter Birding Wonders" workshop on Friday, Jan. 9, to learn how to identify plumage, calls and behavior. Or make birding a habit on our monthly "Winging It Wednesday" walks where you'll explore parks countywide and meet others who share your interest.
Rain-ready trails
Rain in Sonoma County is something to celebrate. Creeks fill, hillsides turn green and the air carries that fresh, earthy smell that only comes with wet weather. But after a good storm, muddy trails need time to dry out, so choosing to hike on paved trails or gravel roads helps prevent erosion and long-term trail damage. Explore a few of our favorite scenic, rain-ready routes in this recent blog post. You can also check for weather-related park updates at SoCoParks.org/FindAPark.
Big sky views from North Sonoma Mountain
January is a beautiful time to explore North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park and Open Space Preserve, specifically the Umbrella Tree Trail. After seasonal rains, the hills are green and lively, and clear winter skies mean you'll likely be rewarded at the top with sweeping views overlooking Bennett Valley and the Santa Rosa Plain. It’s a peaceful way to start the new year outdoors.
Ring in the new(t) year!
Winter rains bring out one of your parks’ small but mighty predators — newts — as they start foraging for food in preparation for breeding season. Join us to see the "newt commute" up close and learn more about these amazing amphibians at Mark West Creek Regional Park and Open Space Preserve on Friday, Jan. 16, and Wednesday, Jan. 28, or at Monte Rio Redwoods Regional Park and Open Space Preserve on Friday, Feb. 13. Registration required.
Join us for a 'Day of Service'
On Monday, Jan. 19, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and embrace the spirit of community service at a volunteer workday to beautify Andy’s Unity Park in Santa Rosa. Tools, supplies, snacks and drinks will be provided and lunch will be served afterwards. Free; registration required.
Supporting parks and programs for all
We manage more than 60 parks that keep Sonoma County residents connected to nature. But we don't do it alone. Our nonprofit partner, the Sonoma County Parks Foundation, raises vital funds needed to improve trails, enhance programs and protect our wild spaces. Check out this end-of-year video to see this partnership in action and find out how you can help your favorite parks thrive.
Upcoming holiday closures
Our Santa Rosa office will be closed on Monday, Jan. 19, for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. All parks will remain open.
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