INTERMEDIATE: Kortum Trail, Sonoma Coast

We will hike the Kortum Trail along the Sonoma Coast from the Shell Beach Parking lot to Goat Rock, w optional short climb up Peaked Hill. Great ocean views, stones that ancient Mammoths rubbed smooth. Some up and down, mostly flat. About 7 miles, 700 ft. elevation gain at a gentle 30-minute mile pace. Those wishing a shorter hike with less elevation may wait or turn back at Mammoth stones, Peaked Hill, Blind Beach, or any point on the way as the trail is clear - please carpool accordingly. Optional stop on the way back at bakery in Duncan's Mills for cold drink and pastry. Pack a jacket because the coast can be cool even when it's hot in Santa Rosa. No shade on trail -  bring hat, sunscreen, poles, water, lunch. Poison Oak here and there along trail so long sleeves and pants recommended. Leave Berger 9 am. Hike leader Florentia Scott, hikingscott@yahoo.com, (707) 591-1929.