Welcome to Taylor Mountain Regional Park, a treasure trove of natural beauty and historical intrigue just outside Santa Rosa, California. This park, with its panoramic views and rich past, offers a unique glimpse into the history and evolution of the region.
Taylor Mountain takes its name from John Shackleford Taylor, a prominent figure during California’s Gold Rush era. Taylor arrived in Santa Rosa in 1853 and established a thriving ranch on the mountain’s slopes, raising dairy cows and cultivating vineyards. This land was not only a site of agricultural production but also a place of leisure, as Taylor operated a resort that drew visitors seeking the restorative powers of the natural hot springs. However, the springs dried up following the devastating 1906 earthquake, marking the end of the resort era.
In the late 20th century, efforts to preserve this beautiful landscape culminated in the formation of Taylor Mountain Regional Park. The park officially opened to the public in 2010, thanks to the dedication of local conservation groups and the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District. Today, Taylor Mountain offers over 1,100 acres of open space for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Its trails lead adventurers through grassy hillsides, oak woodlands, and alongside picturesque creeks, providing habitat for a diverse array of wildlife.
The park is also home to an 18-hole disc golf course, thanks to the efforts of the United Flyers of Sonoma, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting disc golf in the region. Established in 1976, the group has been instrumental in developing this recreational activity as a way to bring communities together and encourage healthy outdoor lifestyles.
As you explore Taylor Mountain, imagine the bustling activity of the ranch and resort in the 1800s, the natural beauty that inspired conservation efforts, and the ongoing evolution of this land as a beloved public park. It’s a place where history, nature, and community come together, offering a glimpse into the past and a promise for the future.
