LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The Lake County Land Trust is holding winter hikes on its local properties.

The organization has three family-friendly, hiking properties; one being open only on scheduled days and the other two being open daily.

The Rodman Preserve and Nature Center at 6350 Westlake Road, Upper Lake currently has 90-minute, 1.5-mile guided hikes scheduled every second and fourth Saturday of the month, beginning at 9 a.m.

Trained member volunteers from the Lake County Land Trust provide hike leadership, pointing out the interesting flora and fauna along the way, and providing a historical overview of the area.

Mark your calendar for Jan. 13 and 27, with hike leaders Katherine Lindsley and Pam Bordisso, respectively.

Hikers sign in at the Nature Center, where they can learn more about local wildlife and the Land Trust’s conservation efforts in Lake County.

Only in the case of excessive rain will the hikes be cancelled. A light rain can be refreshing, even bringing out some critters that may otherwise hide under bright, sunny conditions.

Bring water; sturdy, comfortable shoes; and a camera to capture the highlights of your hike. Binoculars will be provided.

Bald eagle sightings have been reported on recent Land Trust hikes, as well as varieties of hawks, great blue herons and egrets.

Lake County Land Trust’s Rabbit Hill, located on Stewart Street in Middletown, and Boggs Lake, on Harrington Flat Road off of Bottle Rock Road, are open daily during daylight hours, for self-guided walks and public enjoyment.

Exercise and enjoying the outdoors are activities that promote good physical and mental well-being.

For more information on guided hikes or any of the Lake County Land Trust’s properties (including directions), or to volunteer, visit http://lakecountylandtrust.org, call 707-262-0707, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The Land Trust is a private nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection of valuable natural habitats in Lake County. All donations are tax-deductible.

It is funded by local contributions and small grants, and operated by volunteers and three part-time employees.