Avid hikers and weekend warriors can answer the call of the wild at Jack London State Historic Park’s second annual WILD Trail Challenge, a series of five hikes on five consecutive Saturdays, covering every trail in the park for a total of 39.5 miles. The hikes increase in duration and/or difficulty each week.
The series begins on Sept. 6 and concludes on Oct. 4, 2025.
Participants can sign up for individual hikes or do them all and become a true “WILD One.”
The price for each hike is $15 (plus the $10 park entry fee). Those who sign up for all five hikes before Sept. 6 save 20 percent and pay only $60. The daily park entry fee of $10 per vehicle (up to nine passengers) is not included.
Details and reservations are available at https://jacklondonpark.com/events/wild-trail-challenge-2025/.
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. The hikes will highlight the history and natural beauty of the park while offering participants a meaningful fitness challenge.
Hike # 1 – Historic Trails
Sept. 6, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
A great way to warm up, this hike explores the historic sites and trails of the park, including Jack London’s Beauty Ranch, London Lake, and the Wolf House ruins. Easy – moderate hike (approximately 4.5 miles roundtrip)
Hike # 2 – Ancient Redwood
Sept. 13, 9 a.m. – 1 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 6 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 3 – Historic Orchard
September 20, 9 am – 1:30 pm
Start Location: Sonoma Developmental Center, 15000 Arnold Dr, Eldridge, CA 95431.
Stroll along the 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 Farm to Pantry. Moderate – Difficult hike (approximately 7 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 4 – The Ridge
Sept. 27, 9 a.m. – 3:30 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 12 miles roundtrip).
Hike # 5 – The Summit
Oct. 4, 9 a.m. – 2:30 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 10 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 https://jacklondonpark.com/policies/.
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Jack London State Historic Park
2400 London Ranch Rd.
- Glen Ellen