The Middle Mountain Foundation Interpretive Program hikes provide access to the privately owned Sutter Buttes hillsides and peaks. Guides share its unique origin and history and examine with you a natural ecology that has become increasingly rare in our time. The different hikes and diverse guides each offer a singular experience in the Buttes.

A typical day in the Buttes begins at 8:00 am and ends around 3:30 pm (unless otherwise noted). Trips are scheduled and will proceed in all but the most severe weather conditions. Participants of all hikes should be prepared to expect uneven footing, stepping over rocks and boulders, crossing streams, and hill climbing. Spring hikers are likely to encounter wet, squishy, ankle-deep grass, while fall trekkers will be contend­ing with thistles and stickers. Poison oak is abundant, but you will be warned of its proximity. Rattlesnakes, though common in the warmer weather, are usually reclusive and inactive during our hiking seasons. Hikes are limited to 20 unless otherwise stated.

Individuals and families may reserve a date for one of the public hikes by email at mmfhikes@yahoo.com; or call Karen at 530-671-6116. Cost for open hikes is $35 per person unless otherwise stated. The fee is used to pay the guides, reimburse the landowners, and for liability insurance. Any remainder is used for our conservation and education work.

Some hikes are acceptable for smaller children, but many are not. All of our hikes are educational experiences. We find that no hikes are appropriate for toddlers. We suggest that hikes rated 3 or 4 may be suitable for children 12 or older, but it depends on the child and the hike. Please inform the hike coordinator when making your reservations if you are considering bringing children.

Organizations or groups of ten or more may schedule a charter hike by contacting Margit at 530-846-5142 after 5:00 p.m. or by email at psands@manznet.com. The cost for charters is $300 minimum for the first ten, and $30 per person for each additional hiker.