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HIKE DESCRIPTIONS

  • Event Ratings are a guideline to help you choose an outing that matches your level of fitness and ability.
    Distance and elevation gain are dependent on the outing, the property, and the guide.

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Detailed hike and payment information emailed upon your reservation. Unless otherwise specified in the following hike descriptions, the cost is $35/per person; meet and greet time is at 8:00 a.m. with a 3:00 p.m. ending time; and each hike is limited to approximately 20 registrants. All hikers are to carry a backpack containing: lunch, snacks, and plenty of water (for a day’s hike). Wear hiking boots or strong/ tough/ sturdy shoes with good tread/traction (no tennis shoes/sneakers)!  Note: Hiking/walking sticks are a great idea for all participants!
 

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NORTH BUTTE SUMMIT
This Summit Ascent on the Dean Place is one of our most challenging treks. The route is a steep 1,000-foot push straight up North Butte. It is off trail and has no easy switchbacks. Hikers must be in extremely good physical condition and not suffer from vertigo. Limited to approximately 15 hikers.

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VINES & VISTAS

Enjoy a stroll through the Cordi Winery orchards and vineyards before entering the hills of the lovely Shaeffer Ranch. After exploring the ridges and views for most of the day, return to Cordi for optional wine tasting (additional fee of $10 to be paid separately on hike day to Cordi).

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SHAEFFER RANCH HIKE

Hikers explore the historic Shaeffer Ranch belonging to the same family since the 1860s. Depending on visibility, this hike may include views of North Butte, Peace Valley, and the old Titan Missile Site. Both Mount Lassen and Shasta are often seen in the distance.

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MOONLIGHT STROLL

Experience the change from daylight to evening on the Dean Place. Watch the moon rise and hike by its light as you walk among the shadowy oaks and wander the rolling hillsides.

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RIDIN' FENCE

Walk the fence line of the historic Dean Place. The fence line terrain is rugged and demanding, so wear sturdy boots, a bring day’s worth of water, and your sense of adventure.

Fall/Winter Only

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BROCKMAN CANYON

Hike into the central core of the Sutter Buttes via Brockman Canyon. Be prepared for a steady climb on uneven ground with stops to enjoy the view and learn about your surroundings. Lunch is typically on a ridgeline where Snow Mountain, Shasta, Lassen, Diablo and Sacramento are all visible on a clear day. The return hike is largely downhill, so please consider your knees!

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BROCKMAN CHALLENGE
Prepare for a six-mile strenuous hike with a steep ascent between the tallest of ridge tops of the Brockman Ranch. The trail is narrow and traverses a precipitous incline with an elevation gain of 1,000 feet. At the hike’s midway point, enjoy views deep into the core of the Buttes as well as from mountain range to mountain range across the valley.

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GEOLOGY

Learn about the exciting volcanic origins of the Sutter Buttes, a small-mountain range, with Volcanologist, Dr. Brian Hausback. Hiking the varied terrain of the Dean Place, he teaches us about the Buttes 1.6 million years of geological history.

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WILDFLOWERS IN THE BUTTES

Explore one of the three ranches we hike in search of the myriad wildflowers that brighten the hillsides in spring time. You will see a variety of flowers not found on the Valley floor. Feel free to bring cameras, hand lenses, and field guides. See the season’s hike schedule for specific ranches and difficulty levels.

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NATURE IN THE BUTTES

Learn about the exciting diversity of plants and animals found in the Sutter Buttes and examine the fascinating adaptations that allow them to survive. Plan to study nature and learn about the natural world in a beautiful outdoor setting. Ranch location will be noted on the current season’s hike list.

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DEAN RIDGE

Hike the rocky ridges of the historic Dean Place, a working-cattle ranch owned by the same family since the 1890s. This invigorating hike rewards you with unforgettable interior views of the Sutter Buttes as well as vistas across the valley below.

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BIRDS IN THE BUTTES

Come share the uncommon opportunity to bird in the Sutter Buttes. You will explore various habitats on the Dean Place while looking for both resident and migrant birds and also have the opportunity for photography or use of a scope (if you bring your equipment). Definitely bring your binoculars! Please note, this is a slow, mostly level hike, that does not cover the range of territory of other hikes nor the depth of interpretation. It truly is a bird watching day. Hike may be limited to 15 participants. Beginning birders welcome!

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SACRED MANNER

Walking in a sacred manner with Stan Padilla on the Dean Place, you will learn a respectful reverence for life and the special place that the Sutter Buttes hold for local Native Americans. This is a quiet and contemplative day and a unique perspective on the Middle Mountain.

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BATS IN THE BUTTES

This Bat Research Outing is a rare opportunity for a limited number of participants to witness mammal biologist, David Wyatt, conduct bat research in the Sutter Buttes on the Dean Place. You will take a brief hike as the crew readies their equipment. In addition to food and water, bring a folding chair or cushion, a light jacket or sweatshirt and flashlight.

Spring Only 

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TRES PICOS

Our Tres Picos adventure on the Dean Place is for serious hikers able and willing to hike, climb, and summit the rugged, challenging and daunting three peaks: North Butte, Old Man, and Pigeon Peak. Hikers must be in excellent physical condition. Limited to approximately 15 hikers.

Spring Only

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SUNSET SERENADE

Join Middle Mountain Interpretive Hikes at its annual fundraiser, Sunset Serenade, scheduled for the first Saturday of May on the Dean Place. Enjoy a beautiful outdoor setting at the base of North Butte, take an afternoon stroll or hike, share delicious appetizers, wine and beer, a catered dinner, light-classical music, fine desserts, and pleasant company. Unique items are always featured at the Sutter Buttes Regional Land Trust (SBRLT) silent auction and opportunity drawing. Pre-registration is required and spaces are limited. Detailed information is available upon registration.

Spring Only

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