MMIH Hike Descriptions

= Easy: One to three miles and less than 300 feet elevation gain/loss.

= Moderate: Two to five miles and generally less than 600 feet elevation gain/loss.

= Moderately Challenging: Four to seven miles with the possibility of multiple elevation gains/losses of 600 - 800 feet.

= Difficult: Four to seven miles and elevation gains/losses likely in excess of 800 feet.

= Strenuous: Four to eight miles with multiple and/or significant elevation gains/losses.

= Extreme: Five to fourteen miles with multiple and significant elevation gains/losses in excess of 1,000+ feet (miles determined by outing).

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.

HIKE/EVENT BOOT RATINGS

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

Nature Study | Dean Place

Learn about the natural elements and features of the Sutter Buttes – things not made by people. Opportunities abound for observing and examining flora and fauna. We will study nature and learn about the natural world in a beautiful outdoor setting while establishing a sense of wonder and respect for everything we see along our pathway – be it a lizard, bug, bird or plant. Hike Difficulty Level: 3 Boot.

Date: Saturday, February 25.

Summit
Dean Place/North Butte

The Summit Ascent is one of our most challenging treks. This 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.
Cost: $45.

Hike Difficulty Level: 5 Boot. Dates: Sunday, February 26; Saturday, March 4; Saturday, March 25; and Saturday, April 1.

East Ridge | Shaeffer Ranch

Hikers will explore the historical Shaeffer Ranch belonging to the same family since the 1860s. This moderate/challenging hike provides glorious inland views of North Butte and Peace Valley. Mount Lassen and Shasta are often seen in the distant horizon, weather permitting. Hike Difficulty Level: 3 Boot. Date: Sunday, February 26.

Nature Study | Brockman

Learn about the natural elements and features of the Sutter Buttes – things not made by people. Opportunities abound for observing and examining flora and fauna. We will study nature and learn about the natural world in a beautiful outdoor setting while establishing a living sympathy with everything we see along our pathway – be it a lizard, bug, bird, or plant. Hike Difficulty Level: 3 Boot. Date: Sunday, March 5.

Ridin' Fence | Dean Place

Walk the fence line of the historic Sutter Buttes ranch, Dean Place. The fence line terrain is rugged just like the cowboys charged with mending it. Bring sturdy boots, a day’s worth of water, and your sense of adventure - work gloves optional. Hike Difficulty Level: 6 Boot. Date: Saturday, March 11. Time: 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Wildflowers | Shaeffer Ranch

Enjoy a springtime walk in the beautiful green hills of the Sutter Buttes where we hope you will be greeted with a delightful plethora of wildflower blooms like: Popcorn Flower, White Hyacinth, Larkspur, Monkey Flower, Dutchman’s Pipe, Shooting Stars, and Baby Blue Eyes. Remember to bring your hand lens, camera, and wildflower field guide. Hike Difficulty Level: 3 Boot. Date: Saturday, March 11 and Saturday, March 25.

Wildflowers | Brockman Ranch

Enjoy a springtime walk in the beautiful green hills of the Sutter Buttes where we hope you will be greeted with a delightful plethora of wildflower blooms like: Popcorn Flower, White Hyacinth, Larkspur, Monkey Flower, Dutchman’s Pipe, Shooting Stars, and Baby Blue Eyes. Remember to bring your hand lens, camera, and wildflower field guide. Hike Difficulty Level: 3 Boot. Date: Sunday, March 12.

Geology | Dean Place

Learn about the exciting volcanic origins of the Sutter Buttes, a small-mountain range, with Volcanologist, Dr. Brian Hausback, as he teaches us about the Buttes 1.6 million years of geological history. Hike Difficulty Level: 3 - 4 Boot. Date: Sunday, March 19.

Brockman Challenge Brockman Ranch

Prepare for a six-mile strenuous and steep ascent between the tallest of ridge tops. The trail is narrow and will have us traversing a precipitous incline with an elevation gain of 1,000 feet. At the hike’s midway point, we will be gazing with incredulous wonder at the deep, beautiful hidden valleys below. Hike Difficulty Level: 5 Boot. Date: Sunday, March 19.

Brockman Canyon
Brockman Ranch

Travel to the intriguing and fascinating central core of the Sutter Buttes. Be prepared for a steady climb on uneven ground with frequent stops for contemplation of the landscape’s natural elements and mesmerizing views.

Hike Difficulty Level: 3 - 4 Boot. Dates: Sunday, March 26 and Sunday, April 2.

Photographers | Dean Place

This unique event is designed for photographers of all levels. Note, there will be several backup guides available so that you can scout/hike the Buttes dramatic terrain for the best lighting/angles for those highly sought after scenic-photo opportunities. Remember to bring your camera.

Hike Difficulty Level: 1 - 3 Boot. Date: Saturday, April 1. Time: 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Wildflowers | Dean Place

Enjoy a springtime walk in the beautiful green hills of the Sutter Buttes where we hope you will be greeted with a delightful plethora of wildflower blooms like: Popcorn Flower, White Hyacinth, Larkspur, Monkey Flower, Dutchman’s Pipe, Shooting Stars, and Baby Blue Eyes. Remember to bring your hand lens, camera, and wildflower field guide. Hike Difficulty Level: 3 Boot. Date: Sunday, April 2.

West Ridge | Shaeffer Ranch

This moderate/challenging hike will have you exploring the Shaeffer Family Ranch, a historical Sutter Buttes property belonging to the same family since the 1860s. Depending on visibility, the 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. Hike Difficulty Level: 3 Boot. Saturday, April 8.

Birds | Dean Place

Witness a variety of birds while searching for and contemplating their natural habitat of brush, shrubbery, and old oak trees. Did you know that the Sutter Buttes are located in the famous Pacific Flyway? Remember to bring your camera and binoculars. Hike Difficulty Level: 3 Boot. Date: Saturday, April 15. Time: 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Dean Ridge | Dean Place

Hike and climb the rocky, rather steep, hilly ridges of Dean Place, a working-cattle ranch, belonging to the same family since the 1890s. This invigorating hike will reward you with unforgettable views of the Sutter Buttes interior upon greeting a beautiful landscape of woodlands, a dense growth of native trees, brush, and shrubbery. Hike Difficulty Level: 3-4 Boot. Date: Sunday, April 16.

Sacred Manner | Dean Place

A contemplative and peaceful nature walk with Stan Padilla focuses on his respectful reverence for the sanctity of all life and the Native-American mythology of the Sutter Buttes. Did you know that the name Middle Mountain Interpretive Hikes offers homage to the spiritually vital indigenous name, Mountains in the Middle? Hike Difficulty Level: 2 Boot. Date: Sunday, April 23.

Sunset Serenade
(Annual Fundraiser)
Dean Place

You will enjoy an afternoon stroll or hike, delicious appetizers, wine and beer, a catered dinner, light-classical music, fine desserts, and pleasant company. Unique items will be featured at the Sutter Buttes Regional Land Trust (SBRLT) silent auction and drawing. Meet/Greet Time for Stroll/Hike is at 2:30 p.m.; appetizers at 5:00 p.m.; and dinner at 6:00 p.m. Hike Difficulty Level: 1 - 3 Boot. Date: Saturday, May 6.

2023 SPRING HIKE DESCRIPTIONS