As the quest for toilet paper takes a more serpentine course, with sporting and cultural events postponed or cancelled for weeks to come, as the term social distancing becomes part of regular dialogue, I have an even greater need to find peace in nature.  

As naturalist John Muir said so well, “Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity.”  

Fortunately, there are serene places to enjoy right here in the Sacramento Valley. 

If you’re in need of a respite from the breakneck pace of pandemic news coverage, if you want a chance to exhale and hit your internal reset button, I suggest the answer is close at hand.

Here are a few peaceful pit stops to consider:

The Sutter Buttes

The world’s smallest mountain range is a smile-inducing sight. Depending on the weather and where you view them, the scenery can vary greatly, but every view has a payoff.  There are a series of hikes around the Buttes that continue into May, although I would definitely call them to confirm they are still in the offing. Here’s more information from the Middle Mountain Foundation. 

Wildlife Refuges

We have world-class wildlife viewing in our valley. Even though we are past the peak Pacific Flyway migration, a visit to one of our refuges is highly-recommended and always rewarding. Here are a few options to consider. Research hiking options or just take the auto loop.

• Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge
• Gray Lodge Wildlife Area
• Colusa National Wildlife Refuge
• Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area

Waterfalls and Wildflowers 

Wildflower viewing doesn’t get better than at North Table Mountain in Butte County. If you’re up for a long hike with an amazing payoff, consider Feather Falls near Oroville. 

Another awe-inspiring, year-round waterfall is Burney Falls in Shasta County.  I believe it’s highly-underrated and is one of the top natural attractions in all of California! 

What great adventure can you plan with your family? Spring is a great time to get out and enjoy the Sacramento Valley. 

I hope whatever path you choose, it brings you peace.